44th Parliament224ClosedMarch 11, 2022e-3916e-3916 (Foreign affairs)IhorPalahnyukStéphaneBergeronMontarvilleBloc QuébécoisQCMarch 10, 2022, at 2:44 p.m. (EDT)April 9, 2022, at 2:44 p.m. (EDT)March 11, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine, including crimes against peace and crimes against humanity;Russian President Putin has threatened all other nations, including Canada, that are assisting the people of Ukraine in their valiant defence of their country;Russian President Putin has put nuclear deterrent forces on alert, which is an unprecedented and dangerous escalation;The Russian Federation poses a great and immediate risk to Ukraine and her allies;Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian decent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine, such as being the first country to recognize their independence in 1991;Ukraine has supported NATO’s operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq; andUkraine also contributed to NATO's counter-piracy operation Ocean Shield.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: 1. Provide direct military assistance and further lethal weapons and supplies to the defence of Ukraine;2. Immediately put the Canadian Armed Forces on high operational readiness in case of rapid deployment;3. Immediately urge NATO allies and Ukraine-friendly countries to close the airspace over Ukraine and deploy peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, and support the Ukrainian people; and4. Immediately develop a plan to defend Canada's Arctic.Air defenceCanadian Arctic sovereigntyCanadian ForcesMilitary weaponsRussiaUkraineWar44th Parliament207Open for signatureMarch 26, 2024e-4896e-4896 (Democratic process)BrianKerrJamieSchmaleHaliburton—Kawartha Lakes—BrockConservativeONMarch 26, 2024, at 4:05 p.m. (EDT)July 24, 2024, at 4:05 p.m. (EDT)Petition to the <Addressee type="2" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">House of Commons in Parliament assembled</Addressee>Whereas:There are currently no election laws at the federal level of Canadian government that enable legally registered Canadian voters to fire an elected representative before their term;There are currently no election laws at the federal level of Canadian government that enable legally registered Canadian voters to repeal or remove legislation that is proven biased, bigoted, prejudiced, oppressive, authoritarian, or treasonous; andWithin this legislation must be a law that, politicians who are recalled, would no longer be entitled to their pension or any other benefits associated with their elected position. A sitting government cannot amend or remove the recall/initiative legislation without a public referendum.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to put into law, "Recall and Initiative" legislation at the federal level of government in Canada to give Canadian citizens a mechanism to protect their livelihood from an untrustworthy, tyrannical government ruling Canada.LegislationMembers of ParliamentParticipatory democracy44th Parliament207Open for signatureMarch 27, 2024e-4904e-4904 (Employment and labour)FannyLabelleAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNDPQCMarch 27, 2024, at 2:40 p.m. (EDT)July 25, 2024, at 2:40 p.m. (EDT)Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:Canadian women assume the vast majority of family responsibilities and make up the majority of single-parent families;Canadian women already face a job market where they are at a disadvantage in terms of salary, type of employment and promotion opportunities;Canadian women take almost all the weeks of parental benefits following the birth of a child; under the current provisions of the Employment Insurance Act, Canadian women who lose their jobs while on maternity leave, or too soon afterwards, are denied Employment Insurance regular benefits;This situation affects some 3,000 women a year, pushing them into vulnerable situations, poverty and economic dependence.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canadato put an end to this disadvantageous situation for Canadian women by amending the Employment Insurance Act by:1. Abolishing the 50-week stacking rule. (s. 12(6) EIA); and 2. Extending the 52-week benefit period (s. 10(2) EIA) by including maternity/parental benefits as grounds for extending (s. 10(10) EIA) the benefit period to 104 weeks, as is already the case in other situations (s. 10(14) EIA).Employment insurance benefits period extensionMaternity leaveParental leave44th Parliament224ClosedMarch 9, 2022e-3833e-3833 (Media and telecommunications)GabrielBanicaAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNDPQCFebruary 11, 2022, at 3:28 p.m. (EDT)June 11, 2022, at 3:28 p.m. (EDT)March 9, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="2" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">House of Commons in Parliament assembled </Addressee>Whereas:The Canadian team is competing to qualify for the soccer World Cup in Qatar;No national television broadcaster (Radio-Canada, CBC) is airing the Canadian team’s soccer games; and Millions of Canadians would like to watch our national soccer team compete.We, the undersigned, Gabriel Banica and friends , call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to ask Radio-Canada and CBC public television to broadcast the Canadian team’s soccer games so that millions of Canadians can cheer on our national team.CBC/Radio-CanadaFIFA World CupSoccer44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01286441-01286 (Health)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023March 2, 2022PETITION TO THE PRIME MINISTERWhereas:
  • Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Canada's Bill of Rights, and Canada's history of sacrifice in defence of liberty, demand we respect and uphold the conscience rights of all Canadians; and
  • The Prime Minister has encouraged hatred and contempt towards individuals exercising their constitutionally protected conscience rights.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Prime Minister to:1- End pandemic mandates on the members of our Public Service, the Canadian Armed Forces personnel, all contractors subject to the federal mandates, and all federally regulated workers; and 2- Lift border restrictions related to the pandemic for all Canadians, including ceasing the covid testing required of Canadians upon returning to Canada.
Response by the President of the Treasury Board Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Greg FergusThe Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Core Public Administration Including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police was implemented in the fall of 2021 when vaccination provided a high degree of protection against infection and transmission of COVID-19 viruses. This approach served as an effective public health measure to protect public servants and the communities they worked in.  All employees have had access to Public Health Agency of Canada/Health Canada information about vaccines and how they work so they could understand how vaccination helps protect them and their workplaces against COVID-19.The Policy is compliant with legislation, including the Privacy Act, the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and collective agreements. On October 21, 2021, the Canadian Human Rights Commission published a guide on vaccination policies and human rights, which states that “Rights are not absolute. […] Requiring that an individual be vaccinated to work or travel is not a discriminatory practice under the Canadian Human Rights Act. Vaccination requirements are not a discriminatory practice because they are intended (and are necessary) to protect public health and safety.” The Policy provides for addressing requests for accommodation based on any prohibited ground of discrimination as defined under the Canadian Human Rights Act, on a case-by-case basis.Based on the evolving nature of the pandemic and the scientific data, the Government of Canada announced on June 14th, 2022 that it would suspend vaccination requirements for federal government employees, and effective June 20, 2022, employees of the core public administration would no longer be required to be vaccinated as a condition of employment. Consequently, employees who had been placed on administrative leave without pay as per the Policy, could be reinstated as early as June 20, 2022.The decision to suspend the Policy is based on the latest scientific evidence related to vaccine effectiveness against transmission and infection with evolving COVID-19 variants. Suspending the Policy allows the Government to easily reinstate it as needed, based on science and public health risk, in the future. 
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam Van KoeverdenThroughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada has taken a comprehensive, layered approach to border management, with measures informed by available data, operational considerations, scientific evidence, and monitoring of the epidemiological situation and pandemic response capacity both in Canada and internationally.A number of factors supported lifting Canada’s COVID-19 border measures and travel requirements. These included increased immunity within the Canadian population, lower hospitalization and death rates, high vaccination rates, as well as the availability of vaccines (including bivalent formulation), rapid tests and treatments.As of October 1, 2022, all travellers arriving in Canada are no longer required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter Canada or meet COVID-19 testing, quarantine or isolation requirements. All travellers no longer have to submit their public health information through ArriveCAN, undergo health checks for travel on air and rail or wear masks on planes and trains.However, the Government of Canada encourages individuals to remain up to date with the recommended vaccinations, including booster doses when eligible. While not mandatory, all travellers are strongly recommended to wear well-constructed and well-fitted masks during their travel on planes and in airports, or other crowded indoor settings. Individuals are reminded that they should not travel if they have symptoms of COVID-19. If travellers become sick while travelling, and are still sick when they arrive in Canada, they should inform a flight attendant or a border services officer upon arrival.The Government of Canada continues to work with international partners to enhance genomic sequencing capacity, and closely monitors the global epidemiology of COVID-19 and new variants of concerns. The Government of Canada will not hesitate to put in place additional protective measures for the health and safety of people in Canada should it be required.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherOn June 14, 2022, the Government of Canada announced the suspension of mandatory vaccination for federal employees effective June 20, 2022. In alignment with this measure, the Government of Canada also suspended the COVID-19 Vaccination Policy for Supplier Personnel.This means that as of June 20, 2022, and until further notice, the vaccination requirements of the policy are no longer in effect.Please note that Supplier Personnel may still be required to comply with site-specific workplace health and safety measures that have been put in place by federal departments and agencies separately from the policy.Canada reserves the right to reinstate the policy in the future in alignment with public health guidelines and any vaccination requirements for the public service.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayProtecting the health and safety of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel is critical to maintaining the CAF’s readiness to deliver on Government of Canada missions at home and around the world.COVID-19 vaccine requirements are one of the many public health measures within our broader layered risk mitigation strategy that the CAF continues to assess. These measures have enabled the CAF to carry out operations at home and abroad, including the Whole of Government pandemic response.As the pandemic has evolved, so too have force protection measures. In October 2022, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) amended the directive on CAF COVID-19 vaccination. Since then, the requirement to have the COVID-19 vaccine has been guided by operational readiness and effectiveness. It will be required for employment in certain positions and on certain operations where it is assessed that the greatest reduction of risk is warranted to maintain operational readiness. These requirements will focus on those high-readiness, deployable, or core missions or tasks where an illness would create risk to an individual or the mission.Further information about the CDS’ vaccination can be found at the following link: CDS Directive 003 on CAF COVID-19 Vaccination for Operations and Readiness.
BordersCOVID-19Federally regulated employers and employeesPandemicPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00625441-00625 (Business and trade)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNDPBCJune 20, 2022August 17, 2022January 12, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights, labour and environmental standards. This is reflected in the mandate letter commitment to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and ensure that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses.Further to this commitment, the Government published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains:  What We Heard Report (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/reports/what-we-heard-forced-labour-global-supply-chain.html) in March 2022, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and share any additional feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals and the Government will continue to consider the results of consultations moving forward.Parliament is actively engaged on this matter and there was unanimous support to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and to amend the Customs Tariff,studied by Committee.The Government supports the intent behind Bill S-211 and will look to strengthen and bolster the proposed legislation.This is a complex endeavour that requires careful consideration of supply chain legislation appropriate to the Canadian context. It remains a relatively novel undertaking, and the effectiveness of various legislative models is yet to be determined. For that reason, we will continuously re-evaluate and reassess the steps we take on this matter.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business practice abroad.For example, Canada is party to a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights, including conventions addressing situations of child labour and forced labour. The Government continues to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Sanctions or penalties could be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. The National Strategy is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. As part of this National Strategy, the Government aims to encourage industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour in government procurement supply chains.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their sub-contractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that it can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.In January 2021, Canada announced several trade measures to address human rights abuses, including forced labour involving Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang. These include a specialized Xinjiang integrity declaration for Canadian companies; a business advisory on Xinjiang-related entities; enhanced advice to Canadian businesses; export controls; enhanced awareness raising for responsible business conduct related to Xinjiang; and a study on forced labour and supply chain risks, which has now been published on Global Affairs Canada’s website.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in their operations, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (RBC). The Government endorses and promotes internationally respected guidelines, principles, and standards on RBC, including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (https://www.oecd.org/corporate/mne/OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises), the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (https://www.unglobalcompact.org/library/2) and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (https://www.ilo.org/global/lang--en/index.htm). To this end, Global Affairs Canada released an updated RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains, and to help them mitigate potential risks no matter their size, sector or scope.In terms of remedy, the Government of Canada provides two dispute-resolution mechanisms: Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). The NCP offers dispute resolution for companies operating in any sector for a wide range of issues including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery both in Canada and abroad. The NCP can also address complaints directed towards the domestic operations of Canadian companies. In addition, the CORE can review complaints for alleged human rights abuse by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil, gas and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies involved in a dispute-resolution process will participate in good faith. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of, or follow-up to the review process with either the NCP or the CORE, recommendations can be made to implement trade measures such as the withdrawal of Trade Commissioner Service support and recommending to Export Development Canada and the Canadian Commercial Corporation that they decline to provide future support to the company.The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. They are an effective and accessible alternative to judicial resolutions without precluding a party from engaging in other fora. The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. 
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 23, 2023441-01125441-01125 (Business and trade)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNDPBCFebruary 8, 2023March 23, 2023January 12, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights, labour and environmental standards. The Minister of Labour, with support from the Minister of Public Safety, the Minister of Public Services and Procurement and the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, is working to advance legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and ensure that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses, as reflected in the December 2021 mandate letter commitment.Further to this commitment, the Government published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains: What We Heard Report (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/reports/what-we-heard-forced-labour-global-supply-chain.html) in March 2022, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and share any additional feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals and the Government will continue to consider the results of consultations moving forward.Members of Parliament unanimously voted to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and to amend the Customs Tariff, studied by Committee. On November 30, 2022, the Bill was reported back to the House without amendments.Senate Public Bill S-211 has sparked important dialogue and helped advance the issue of forced labour in supply chains. While the Government supported the referral of S-211 to committee study, some stakeholders have expressed concern that the bill does not go far enough to address the issue of forced labour in supply chains. Others have noted some operational considerations, including time needed to prepare for implementation. The Government remains committed to advancing legislation that is strong, effective, and enforceable. This is a complex and important issue and we will continue to work together with stakeholders and international partners to make sure we get it right.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business conduct (RBC) abroad.For example, Canada is party to a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights, including conventions addressing situations of child labour and forced labour. The Government continues to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Trade sanctions or financial penalties can be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. The National Strategy is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. As part of this National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to promoting ethical corporate practices by encouraging industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour in government procurement supply chains.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their subcontractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that it can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.On January 12, 2021, in coordination with international partners, Canada announced measures in response to concerns about human rights violations in the People’s Republic of China involving members of the Uyghur ethnic minority and other minorities within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang). These include a specialized Xinjiang Integrity Declaration as a prerequisite for Canadian companies with business ties to the region to receive Trade Commissioner Service support; a business advisory on Xinjiang-related entities; enhanced advice to Canadian businesses; export controls; increased awareness-raising for RBC related to Xinjiang; and a study on forced labour and supply chain risks, which is available on Global Affairs Canada’s website.At the September 2022 G7 Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, G7 partners committed to strengthen cooperation and collective efforts towards eradicating the use of all forms of forced labour and child labour in global supply chains. This commitment includes measures that promote corporate due diligence, as well as working to further enhance predictability and certainty for businesses.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in all their activities abroad, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines on RBC, such as the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Publications/GuidingPrinciplesBusinessHR_EN.pdf), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (https://www.oecd.org/daf/inv/mne/48004323.pdf), and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy . To this end, Global Affairs Canada released its RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad – no matter their size, sector, or scope – to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains and to help them mitigate risks. The Strategy strengthens Canada’s balanced approach to RBC, which includes preventative measures, legislation in select areas, and access to dispute resolution.In terms of access to dispute resolution, the Government of Canada supports Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). The NCP is mandated to offer facilitated dialogue and mediation to all sectors on issues covered by the OECD Guidelines, including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery. The NCP can address complaints directed at the activities of multinational enterprises in Canada and the operations of Canadian multinational enterprises operating abroad. The CORE can review complaints of alleged human rights abuses by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil and gas, and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies will participate in good faith in these dispute resolution processes. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of or follow-up to a review process, both the NCP and the CORE can recommend the withdrawal of Trade Commissioner Service support and that Export Development Canada and the Canadian Commercial Corporation also withdraw future support. The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. The two mechanisms can offer effective and accessible alternatives to judicial processes, although they do not preclude a party from addressing the issues in other fora. The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation.
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01378441-01378 (Health)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023March 7, 2022PETITION TO THE PRIME MINISTERWhereas:
  • Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Canada's Bill of Rights, and Canada's history of sacrifice in defence of liberty, demand we respect and uphold the conscience rights of all Canadians; and
  • The Prime Minister has encouraged hatred and contempt towards individuals exercising their constitutionally protected conscience rights.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Prime Minister to:1- End pandemic mandates on the members of our Public Service, the Canadian Armed Forces personnel, all contractors subject to the federal mandates, and all federally regulated workers; and 2- Lift border restrictions related to the pandemic for all Canadians, including ceasing the covid testing required of Canadians upon returning to Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherOn June 14, 2022, the Government of Canada announced the suspension of mandatory vaccination for federal employees effective June 20, 2022. In alignment with this measure, the Government of Canada also suspended the COVID-19 Vaccination Policy for Supplier Personnel.This means that as of June 20, 2022, and until further notice, the vaccination requirements of the policy are no longer in effect.Please note that Supplier Personnel may still be required to comply with site-specific workplace health and safety measures that have been put in place by federal departments and agencies separately from the policy.Canada reserves the right to reinstate the policy in the future in alignment with public health guidelines and any vaccination requirements for the public service.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayProtecting the health and safety of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel is critical to maintaining the CAF’s readiness to deliver on Government of Canada missions at home and around the world.COVID-19 vaccine requirements are one of the many public health measures within our broader layered risk mitigation strategy that the CAF continues to assess. These measures have enabled the CAF to carry out operations at home and abroad, including the Whole of Government pandemic response.As the pandemic has evolved, so too have force protection measures. In October 2022, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) amended the directive on CAF COVID-19 vaccination. Since then, the requirement to have the COVID-19 vaccine has been guided by operational readiness and effectiveness. It will be required for employment in certain positions and on certain operations where it is assessed that the greatest reduction of risk is warranted to maintain operational readiness. These requirements will focus on those high-readiness, deployable, or core missions or tasks where an illness would create risk to an individual or the mission.Further information about the CDS’ vaccination can be found at the following link: CDS Directive 003 on CAF COVID-19 Vaccination for Operations and Readiness.
Response by the President of the Treasury Board Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Greg FergusThe Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Core Public Administration Including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police was implemented in the fall of 2021 when vaccination provided a high degree of protection against infection and transmission of COVID-19 viruses. This approach served as an effective public health measure to protect public servants and the communities they worked in.  All employees have had access to Public Health Agency of Canada/Health Canada information about vaccines and how they work so they could understand how vaccination helps protect them and their workplaces against COVID-19.The Policy is compliant with legislation, including the Privacy Act, the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and collective agreements. On October 21, 2021, the Canadian Human Rights Commission published a guide on vaccination policies and human rights, which states that “Rights are not absolute. […] Requiring that an individual be vaccinated to work or travel is not a discriminatory practice under the Canadian Human Rights Act. Vaccination requirements are not a discriminatory practice because they are intended (and are necessary) to protect public health and safety.” The Policy provides for addressing requests for accommodation based on any prohibited ground of discrimination as defined under the Canadian Human Rights Act, on a case-by-case basis.Based on the evolving nature of the pandemic and the scientific data, the Government of Canada announced on June 14th, 2022 that it would suspend vaccination requirements for federal government employees, and effective June 20, 2022, employees of the core public administration would no longer be required to be vaccinated as a condition of employment. Consequently, employees who had been placed on administrative leave without pay as per the Policy, could be reinstated as early as June 20, 2022.The decision to suspend the Policy is based on the latest scientific evidence related to vaccine effectiveness against transmission and infection with evolving COVID-19 variants. Suspending the Policy allows the Government to easily reinstate it as needed, based on science and public health risk, in the future. 
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam Van KoeverdenSince the beginning of the pandemic, our top priority has been protecting the health and safety of all Canadians. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has taken a comprehensive, layered approach to border management, with measures informed by available data, operational considerations, scientific evidence, and monitoring of the epidemiological situation and pandemic response capacity both in Canada and internationally. A number of factors supported lifting Canada’s COVID-19 border measures and travel requirements. These included increased immunity within the Canadian population, lower hospitalization and death rates, high vaccination rates, as well as the availability of vaccines (including bivalent formulation), rapid tests and treatments.As of October 1, 2022, all travellers arriving in Canada are no longer required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter Canada or meet COVID-19 testing, quarantine or isolation requirements. Travellers no longer have to submit their public health information through ArriveCAN, undergo health checks for travel on air and rail or wear masks on planes and trains.Even though the current COVID-19 situation no longer constitutes a global health emergency, the virus is still circulating across Canada and worldwide.  Our government encourages individuals to remain up to date with the recommended vaccinations, including booster doses when eligible. While not mandatory, all travellers are strongly recommended to wear well-constructed and well-fitted masks during their travel on planes and in airports, or other crowded indoor settings. Individuals are reminded that they should not travel if they have symptoms of COVID-19. If travellers become sick while travelling, and are still sick when they arrive in Canada, they should inform a flight attendant or a border services officer upon arrival.We will continue to work with provinces and territories, the WHO, and international partners to monitor the COVID-19 situation and to mitigate the domestic health and societal impacts of this virus. Our government will not hesitate to put in place additional protective measures for the health and safety of people in Canada should it be required.
BordersCOVID-19Federally regulated employers and employeesPandemicPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00629441-00629 (Health)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONJune 22, 2022September 20, 2022March 7, 2022PETITION TO THE PRIME MINISTERWhereas:
  • Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Canada's Bill of Rights, and Canada's history of sacrifice in defence of liberty, demand we respect and uphold the conscience rights of all Canadians; and
  • The Prime Minister has encouraged hatred and contempt towards individuals exercising their constitutionally protected conscience rights.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Prime Minister to:1- End pandemic mandates on the members of our Public Service, the Canadian Armed Forces personnel, all contractors subject to the federal mandates, and all federally regulated workers; and 2- Lift border restrictions related to the pandemic for all Canadians, including ceasing the covid testing required of Canadians upon returning to Canada.
Response by the President of the Treasury Board Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Greg FergusThe Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Core Public Administration Including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police was implemented in the fall of 2021 when vaccination provided a high degree of protection against infection and transmission of COVID-19 viruses. This approach served as an effective public health measure to protect public servants and the communities they worked in.  All employees have had access to Public Health Agency of Canada/Health Canada information about vaccines and how they work so they could understand how vaccination helps protect them and their workplaces against COVID-19.The Policy is compliant with legislation, including the Privacy Act, the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and collective agreements. On October 21, 2021, the Canadian Human Rights Commission published a guide on vaccination policies and human rights, which states that “Rights are not absolute. […] Requiring that an individual be vaccinated to work or travel is not a discriminatory practice under the Canadian Human Rights Act. Vaccination requirements are not a discriminatory practice because they are intended (and are necessary) to protect public health and safety.” The Policy provides for addressing requests for accommodation based on any prohibited ground of discrimination as defined under the Canadian Human Rights Act, on a case-by-case basis.Based on the evolving nature of the pandemic and the scientific data, the Government of Canada announced on June 14th, 2022 that it would suspend vaccination requirements for federal government employees, and effective June 20, 2022, employees of the core public administration would no longer be required to be vaccinated as a condition of employment. Consequently, employees who had been placed on administrative leave without pay as per the Policy, could be reinstated as early as June 20, 2022.The decision to suspend the Policy is based on the latest scientific evidence related to vaccine effectiveness against transmission and infection with evolving COVID-19 variants. Suspending the Policy allows the Government to easily reinstate it as needed, based on science and public health risk, in the future. 
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayThe Canadian Armed Forces is committed to maintaining its readiness to deliver on Government of Canada missions at home and around the world.Protecting the readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces means protecting the health and safety of its members. Therefore, the Chief of the Defence Staff issued directives requiring all Canadian Armed Forces members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, with the exception of individuals that cannot be fully vaccinated due to a certified medical contraindication, religious grounds, or any other prohibited ground of discrimination as defined in the Canadian Human Rights Act.COVID-19 vaccination is now included in the minimum standard for vaccination for all operations abroad and for most domestic operations. In addition to the operational requirement, the COVID-19 vaccination is a condition for enrolment into the Canadian Armed Forces.The Canadian Armed Forces is assessing the role of COVID-19 vaccination requirements as a preventative health measure, taking into consideration the best scientific and medical evidence available, operational considerations, and any risks to the health of its members in a persistent COVID-19 environment. In the meantime, the Chief of Defence directives will remain in effect. We will continue to prioritize the maintenance of a safe working environment, while remaining ready to conduct operations in support of Canadians.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenTo help keep people in Canada safe, the Government of Canada put in place border measures to reduce the risk of the importation and transmission of COVID-19 and new variants in Canada related to international travel.Adjustments to Canada’s border measures are made possible by a number of factors, including Canada’s high vaccination rate, the increasing availability and use of rapid tests to detect infection, the decrease in hospitalizations, and the increasing availability of treatment for COVID-19 in Canada.As with any other element of the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 response, the testing measures required of returning Canadians have been informed by available data, operational considerations, scientific evidence and monitoring of the epidemiological situation across Canada.Effective April 1, 2022, the Government has removed the requirement for pre-entry testing for fully vaccinated travellers entering Canada. Therefore, fully vaccinated travellers arriving at land, air or marine ports of entry are no longer required to complete a pre-entry test for entry to Canada. Travellers who do not qualify as fully vaccinated, will continue to require testing on day 1 and day 8 of their 14-day quarantine.The current requirements for travellers arriving in Canada are expected to remain in effect until September 30, 2022. Any easing or modification of the current border restrictions in Canada is done based on the latest scientific evidence and in close consultation with our provincial, territorial and international partners, including industry stakeholders, with the health and safety of Canadians as the top priority.As vaccination levels and healthcare system capacity improve, the Government of Canada will continue to consider further easing of measures at the borders, and when to lift or adjust those measures to keep people in Canada safe.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherOn June 14, 2022, the Government of Canada announced the suspension of mandatory vaccination for federalemployees effective June 20, 2022. In alignment with this measure, the Government of Canada will also be suspendingthe COVID-19 Vaccination Policy for Supplier Personnel.This means that as of June 20, 2022 and until further notice, the vaccination requirements of the policy will no longer bein effect.Please note that Supplier Personnel may still be required to comply with site-specific workplace health and safetymeasures that have been put in place by federal departments and agencies separately from the policy.Canada reserves the right to reinstate the policy in the future in alignment with public health guidelines and anyvaccination requirements for the public service. 
BordersCOVID-19Federally regulated employers and employeesPandemicPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00620441-00620 (Environment)MatthewGreenHamilton CentreNDPONJune 20, 2022September 20, 2022March 8, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels, and assists the Global South in cutting emissions by 80%, by 2030;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition. 
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01515441-01515 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 5, 2023July 19, 2023March 24, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so.Global Affairs Canada remains in regular contact with Mr. Celil’s family in Canada and continues to provide them with consular services. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01453441-01453 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 15, 2023July 19, 2023March 25, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01556441-01556 (Social affairs and equality)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABJune 14, 2023August 16, 2023March 23, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based.  This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00483441-00483 (Social affairs and equality)KellyMcCauleyEdmonton WestConservativeABMay 17, 2022June 21, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00486441-00486 (Social affairs and equality)JohnWilliamsonNew Brunswick SouthwestConservativeNBMay 17, 2022June 21, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00602441-00602 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 16, 2022August 17, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00653441-00653 (Social affairs and equality)JeremyPatzerCypress Hills—GrasslandsConservativeSKSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01478441-01478 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMay 29, 2023July 19, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00666441-00666 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2023441-01115441-01115 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 6, 2023March 22, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00269441-00269 (Environment)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCMarch 24, 2022May 9, 2022March 24, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:We are calling for better forest management and wildfire prevention as well as empowering Local People, working with Licensees, Industry & Contractors, Indigenous Communities, Ranchers, and boots on the ground workers such as Fire Fighters, Forestry workers, and all those that see day to day issues and have the frontline knowledge to provide feedback on the inconsistencies and can help to create change; Ontario created an 'All Hazards Agency' that employs people to manage fire, flood and slides; We believe BC needs this too. Create full time, year around employment for forest restoration and management for fire fighters;The trickle effect of lumber prices and availability along with jobs, mill closures, current and future mudslides, damage to critical habitat, and house insurance increases will have an alarming effect on BC's future if we don't change the current forest practice procedures; and We need to make a change to protect BC Forests and every living thing in it.Therefore:This petition is calling on our Provincial and Federal Governments to provide better forest management and wildfire protection by assessing the current policies and guidelines to enhance those that are working and to re-evaluate and change those that are not.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need to invest in, measures that will reduce the impact of climate-related disasters. This will make communities safer and more resilient. As wildland fire seasons continue to create risk for Canadian lives and livelihoods, the issue of how governments collectively and individually prepare and respond to these events, as well as how to engage the whole-of-society in prevention and mitigation, is of growing importance.This is why the Government of Canada is developing a whole-of-society approach to address ongoing challenges with wildland fire, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk reduction that will support a resilient forest sector. Federal programs will continue to advance forest management adaptive practices and support wildland fire preparedness and response, a critical part towards building disaster resilience, thriving environments, strong economies, and improved public health outcomes. Budget 2022 proposes additional actions to counter the growing threat of wildfires in Canada, by investing $383 million over five years in training and employment supports for community-based wildland firefighters, and in firefighting equipment and capacity. Investments will include $269 million over five years to strengthen provincial and territorial capabilities, and $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities. In addition, Budget 2022 proposes $176.81 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.Canada will continue to work with Provincial and Territorial Forest Ministers through the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM) to implement collaboratively the Canadian Wildland Fire Strategy, which outlines the actions and partnerships that are required to better predict and prepare for wildland fire events. At its fall 2021 meeting, the CCFM endorsed the launch of the Canadian Dialogue on Wildland Fire and Forest Resilience, to convene and mobilize whole-of-society action to address the growing risk of wildland fire. Five dialogue sessions took place in February 2022, with approximately 100 stakeholders from diverse sectors of society, actively participating in the roundtables to help identify specific actions to prevent and mitigate risks. In addition, Natural Resources Canada recently consulted jurisdictions on their wildland fire needs and priorities.While transforming wildland fire management in Canada will take time, the Government of Canada will work to build that brighter future through continued collaboration, engagement, and the use of science and evidence-based decision-making. The Government of Canada is committed to working with jurisdictions, Indigenous communities, and other partners to identify tangible actions to better prevent and mitigate wildland fires, to protect communities, and improve forest health.
Brush, prairie and forest firesEnvironmental protectionForest policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00809441-00809 (Social affairs and equality)GlenMotzMedicine Hat—Cardston—WarnerConservativeABOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022April 1, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01082441-01082 (Environment)DanielBlaikieElmwood—TransconaNDPMBJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023April 22, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTSince 2015, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions rapidly by 2030, achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (2030 ERP) in Parliament. The 2030 ERP is the Government’s most recent, major step to take action to meet Canada’s climate objectives, and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Net Zero Advisory Body.Investments in Indigenous-led climate action are critical to enabling Indigenous peoples to advance their self-determined priorities. Since the release of Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, in December 2020, the federal government has committed more than $1.9 billion in targeted investments to support Indigenous communities, including initiatives to facilitate the transition to clean energy, advance nature-based solutions, build new or retrofit green community buildings, promote resilience and adaptation, and undertake major disaster mitigation projects, among others. These investments supplement more than $425 million over 12 years committed under the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF), as well as funding provided to Indigenous proponents through general climate programs for which they are eligible recipients. More recently, in the 2030 ERP and Budget 2022, the Government of Canada committed $29.6 million to co-develop and implement a model of climate partnership that empowers self-determined climate action; leverages the transition to a net-zero economy to support efforts toward self-determination and the alleviation of socio-economic inequalities; and supports the expression of Indigenous Science and Knowledge systems in national climate policy. The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the PCF and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of sustainable jobs and skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.Canada also contributes to emissions reduction in developing countries through its climate finance. Initiatives under Canada’s previous $2.65 billion climate finance commitment led to significant emissions reduced or avoided. In addition, our current $5.3 billion commitment (2021-2026) features Clean Energy Transition and Coal Phase-Out as a focus area.Under this focus area, Canada supports efforts to reduce GHG emissions in developing countries by investing in initiatives that phase out coal-powered emissions, foster equitable access to clean energy solutions, promote energy efficient technologies, and support the clean energy sector enabling environment in key coal-dependent regions. In line with this, Canada has recently dedicated $43 million to energy transition programming, including a $5 million contribution to the South East Asia Energy Transition Partnership, and an $8 million contribution to the International Energy Agency’s Clean Energy Transitions Programme. With G7 partners, Canada is also providing support to new Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETP) with countries such as South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam, including through its $1 billion commitment to the Climate Investment Funds Accelerating Coal Transitions Program among other sources of support. JETPs are a new model of international energy, climate, and economic assistance for emerging and developing countries to accelerate their transitions to cleaner, more climate resilient economies, while also including the perspectives and needs of workers and communities.This priority complements Canada’s leadership through the Powering Past Coal Alliance. This initiative, which Canada co-leads with the United Kingdom, works to increase global ambition on coal phase-out and supports developing countries by sharing expertise and best practices. Canada’s public climate finance also helps mobilize private capital, which is a key component of climate action, including for clean energy transition.   
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reductions targets. This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the generational economic opportunities that a net zero future represent – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology, including decarbonisation technology in the conventional energy sector.As part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. On December 8th 2022, the Government of Canada announced the implementation of this commitment with the release of the policy guidelines that lay the foundation for federal departments and agencies to put in place the measures set out in this commitment. By ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada will ensure its investments abroad are aligned with its domestic and international climate goals, which means investing in clean energy and renewables.In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also announced that it will cap and cut emissions from the oil and gas sector in line with Canada’s climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.With a highly skilled and educated workforce, abundant access to the natural resources and energy sources critical for a net-zero future, Canada is uniquely positioned to seize the moment and the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy.  This is why the government released its interim Sustainable Jobs Plan in February of this year. This Plan is complementary to – and in fact a part of -  Canada’s broader economic plan, which is to seize the generational opportunity presented by the global shift to net-zero. In drafting this plan, the Government consulted with provinces, territories, union and labour partners, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society.In addition, Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. This includes working with Employment and Social Development Canada to advance growth opportunities in the natural resource sectors, as well as ways to train workers to address labour market shortages.Skills and training measures announced in Budget 2021 included $1.7 billion in new investments and will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers transition and take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy.Building on those job-creation efforts, the Government’s Fall Economic Statement in November 2022, included funding to create a Sustainable Jobs Secretariat, establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program, and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers in key sectors and occupations improve their existing skills or gain new ones for a net-zero world.The Fall Economic Statement also proposed a number of important new initiatives to strengthen Canada’s economic competitiveness and attract new investments in sustainable growth. These include: the Investment Tax Credit for Clean Technologies, which would provide a refundable tax credit equal to 30 per cent of the capital cost of investments in clean energy technologies for claimants that meet certain labour conditions (20 per cent rate for those who do not); and the formal unveiling of the Canada Growth Fund, which seeks to attract billions of dollars in private capital to reduce Canada’s emissions, grow the economy and create good jobs.Amid this concerted action, the Government is also launching Regional Energy and Resource Tables across the country to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, as well as experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize their comparative advantages in a net-zero emissions economy. The federal government has jointly launched 9 such Tables already, with British Columbia, the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a net-zero world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.The 2022 Fall Economic Statement (FES) proposes to provide $250 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy. Specific measures include: a Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and a new Sustainable Jobs Secretariat.The Sustainable Jobs Training Centre will bring together workers, unions, employers, and training institutions across the country to examine the skills of the labour force today, forecast future skills requirements, and develop curriculum, micro-credentials, and on-site learning to help 15,000 workers upgrade or gain new skills for jobs in a low-carbon economy. The Centre would focus on specific areas in high demand, starting with the sustainable battery industry and low-carbon building and retrofits.The FES also proposes to put in place a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program to support unions in leading the development of green skills training for works in the trades. It is expected that 20,000 apprentices and journeypersons would benefit from this investment.To effectively support workers on the road to sustainable, good-paying jobs, the FES also proposes to launch the Sustainable Jobs Secretariat to offer a one-stop shop for workers and employers. It will provide the most up to date information on federal programs, funding, and services across government departments as Canada works to build a low-carbon economy with opportunities for everyone.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table to advise the Government on priorities for helping workers navigate the changing labour market.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01690441-01690 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 28, 2023November 9, 2023April 28, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00414441-00414 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCMay 9, 2022June 21, 2022April 27, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA WHEREAS:
  • In 2006, Ralph Leon, Jr. and twelve other individuals were charged after a fifteen-month investigation into alleged eagle poaching;
  • This legal action languished in the courts for nine years and included: a mistrial, a fraud conviction against a senior conservation officer in charge of the investigation, calls from local Sto:lo leaders to drop the case, and accusations of highly unethical and disrespectful behaviour on the part of the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS);
  • 3,422 days after charges were laid, Ralph Leon, Jr. and another individual were acquitted after Crown Counsel directed a stay in proceedings;
  • Those wrongfully charged have gathered sufficient evidence showcasing: (a) conspiracy to prosecute innocent people; (b) defamatory media releases vilifying Indigenous peoples and culture; (c) fabrication of evidence and concealment of evidence, including perjury; (d) commission of fraud against the federal and provincial government; (e) counselling and aiding Indigenous people to commit offences; (f) trespassing onto Indigenous Reserve Lands; (g) conferring a corrupt benefit on a foreign official; and (h) violating the privacy of Indigenous people on and off Reserve Lands; and
  • Continued denial of what happened to these Indigenous Canadians taints Canadian history and leads to mistrust in our institutions and justice system.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Justice to conduct a public inquiry into the injustices committed by the B.C. Conservation Officer Service and the B.C. Prosecution Service against Chief Ralph Leon, Jr. and the twelve other Indigenous individuals because of their race and culture, with the express purpose of reconciling these injustices through reversal of all convictions, return of property seized, and appropriate compensation.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe petition calls on the Minister of Justice to conduct a public inquiry into the actions of the B.C. Conservation Officer Service and the B.C. Prosecution Service in relation to Chief Ralph Leon Jr. and 12 other Indigenous individuals charged with eagle poaching offences in 2006. The B.C. Prosecution Service stated that it stayed the charges in 2015 because the charge assessment standard for prosecution was no longer met.The Minister of Justice is committed to making improvements within his areas of jurisdiction, and to working with provinces to address issues that fall within their respective areas of jurisdiction. The specific actions and operational decision-making of the B.C. Conservation Officer Service and the B.C. Prosecution Service in relation to the investigation, charging and prosecution of provincial wildlife offences fall within provincial jurisdiction. The substance of any public inquiry must respect the distribution of legislative powers set out in sections 91 and 92 of the Constitution Act,1867.The Government of Canada is committed to advancing reconciliation by addressing systemic racism and the overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples in the criminal justice system. The Minister of Justice recognises that eagles and eagle feathers are integral in many Indigenous cultures and that there is substantive and symbolic importance of their use within tradition and ceremony. To this end, the Minister of Justice understands that supporting Indigenous-led, culturally appropriate, and community-based justice services is key to making necessary systemic changes.    
British ColumbiaDiscriminationInquiries and public inquiries
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2022441-00426441-00426 (Social affairs and equality)MelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapConservativeBCMay 10, 2022June 20, 2022May 2, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00525441-00525 (Environment)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBJune 6, 2022August 17, 2022May 2, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce. Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00686441-00686 (Business and trade)AlexandraMendèsBrossard—Saint-LambertLiberalQCSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022May 13, 2022Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWhereas:
  • some Canadian companies contribute to human rights abuses and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and stand up for their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous peoples, women and marginalized groups are particularly at risk; and
  • Canada encourages companies to stop these harms from happening in their global operations and supply chains, but does not require them to.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the House of Commons to adopt legislation on due diligence for human and environmental rights that:
  • would require companies to prevent any negative impact on human and environmental rights throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • would require companies to exercise due diligence, including a careful assessment of how they might contribute to human and environmental rights abuses abroad and ensuring access to remedies if any harm occurs; and
  • would set out significant consequences for companies that fail to exercise adequate due diligence and report on it; and would establish a statutory right for persons harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights, labour and environmental standards. This is reflected in the mandate letter commitment shared by multiple ministers to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and ensure that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses.Further to this commitment, the Government published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains:  What We Heard Report (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/reports/what-we-heard-forced-labour-global-supply-chain.html) in March 2022, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and share any additional feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals and the Government will continue to consider the results of consultations moving forward.Parliament is actively engaged on this matter and there was unanimous support to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and to amend the Customs Tariff,studied by Committee.The Government supports the referral of Bill S-211 to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development and will look to strengthen and bolster the proposed legislation.This is a complex endeavour that requires careful consideration of supply chain legislation appropriate to the Canadian context. It remains a relatively novel undertaking, and the effectiveness of various legislative models is yet to be determined. For that reason, we will continuously re-evaluate and reassess the steps we take on this matter.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business conduct (RBC) abroad.For example, Canada is party to a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights, including conventions addressing situations of child labour and forced labour. The Government continues to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Trade sanctions or financial penalties can be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. The National Strategy is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. As part of this National Strategy, the Government aims to encourage industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour in government procurement supply chains.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their subcontractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that it can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.On January 12, 2021, in coordination with international partners, Canada announced measures in response to concerns about human rights violations in the People’s Republic of China involving members of the Uyghur ethnic minority and other minorities within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang). These include a specialized Xinjiang Integrity Declaration as a prerequisite for Canadian companies with business ties to the region to receive Trade Commissioner Service support; a business advisory on Xinjiang-related entities; enhanced advice to Canadian businesses; export controls; increased awareness-raising for RBC related to Xinjiang; and a study on forced labour and supply chain risks, which is available on Global Affairs Canada’s website.At the September 2022 G7 Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, G7 partners committed to further coordinate efforts with international partners to take measures to strengthen cooperation and collective efforts towards eradicating the use of all forms of forced labour and child labour in global supply chains. This commitment includes measures that promote corporate due diligence, as well as working to further enhance predictability and certainty for businesses.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in their operations, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines on RBC, such as the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Publications/GuidingPrinciplesBusinessHR_EN.pdf), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (https://www.oecd.org/daf/inv/mne/48004323.pdf), and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (https://www.ilo.org/empent/Publications/WCMS_094386/lang--en/index.htm). To this end, Global Affairs Canada released its RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad – no matter their size, sector, or scope – to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains and to help them mitigate risks. The Strategy strengthens Canada’s balanced approach to RBC, which includes preventative measures, legislation in select areas, and access to dispute resolution.In terms of access to dispute resolution, the Government of Canada supports Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). The NCP is mandated to offer facilitated dialogue and mediation to all sectors on issues covered by the OECD Guidelines, including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery. The NCP can address complaints directed at the activities of multinational enterprises in Canada and the operations of Canadian multinational enterprises operating abroad. The CORE can review complaints of alleged human rights abuses by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil and gas, and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies will participate in good faith in these dispute resolution processes. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of or follow-up to a review process, both the NCP and the CORE can recommend the withdrawal of Trade Commissioner Service support and that Export Development Canada and the Canadian Commercial Corporation also withdraw future support. The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. The two mechanisms can offer effective and accessible alternatives to judicial processes, although they do not preclude a party from addressing the issues in other fora. The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. 
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01620441-01620 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023May 17, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00596441-00596 (Democratic process)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJune 16, 2022September 20, 2022May 19, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Canada's electoral system from its very inception has always been a "First-past-the-Post" (FPTP) system, unfairly resulting in either a Liberal or Conservative government with virtually no opposition, no impact on the popular vote leading to distorted Canadian values;
  • Proportional Representation (PR) is a principle that says that the percentage of seats a party has in the legislature should reflect the percentage of the people who voted for that party, so that if a party gets 40% of the popular vote, they should get 40% of the seats;
  • In the 2021 election the Liberals had 32.62% winning 160 seats, Conservatives 33.74% winning 119 seats, Bloc Quebecois 7.64% winning 32 seats, NDP 17.82% winning 25 seats, People Party 4.94% winning 0 seat and Green Party 2.33% winning 2 seats;
  • Under a FPTP system, like the current system in Canada, a party can win a majority of seats and all the power with less than half the popular vote;
  • Proportional Representation (PR) ensures that majority governments have an actual majority of the voters (popular vote) backing them;
  • Many other countries such as Germany, Italy, Ireland, New Zealand and the Netherlands have progressed from a FPTP system to a PR System; and
  • Many American States are seeking to implement "Ranked Choice Voting" so that all votes are calculated.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to move to a "Proportional Representation” system to bring credible representation to Canadians.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is committed to improving and strengthening our democracy. Our electoral system (i.e., the fundamental rules determining how votes are translated into seats in the House of Commons) is one of the most foundational pieces of our democracy – at its core is a question of how we, as Canadians, govern ourselves. The Government’s view has been clear: major reforms to the electoral system should not be made if they lack the broad support of Canadians.In 2016, the Government consulted broadly with Canadians on electoral reform. In fact, the electoral reform consultations were among the largest and farthest-reaching consultations ever undertaken by the Government of Canada.These public consultations included 57 parliamentary committee meetings that heard from 763 witnesses, 172 consultations undertaken by individual Members of Parliament, a cross-country Ministerial tour that made stops in 18 towns and cities across every province and territory, and online consultations that more than 360,000 people in Canada participated.The Government of Canada is thankful to all Canadians who took part in these consultations.The Government listened to Canadians carefully and gained valuable insights into Canadian democracy. Canadians cherish their democracy and value the direct connection they have with their Member of Parliament (MP). Canadians want their parliamentarians to work with each other and to cooperate on policy. They want their government to be accountable. They want their MPs to act in the interests of their constituents. The Government agrees.A clear preference for a new electoral system, let alone a consensus, did not emerge from these consultations. Consequently, the Government decided not to proceed with changing the electoral system.Our work did not stop there. The Government also took steps to modernize the electoral process and to make it more accessible, transparent and secure. The Elections Modernization Act, which passed in 2018, represents a generational overhaul of the Canada Elections Act, allowing it to better address the realities facing our democratic institutions in the 21st century. The Government of Canada will continue to work to strengthen and protect our democratic institutions.The first-past-the-post system has served this country for over 150 years and advances a number of democratic values Canadians hold dear, such as strong local representation, stability, and accountability.
Electoral reformProportional representation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 8, 2023441-01341441-01341 (National defence and military operations)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 25, 2023June 8, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination produced its final report in early 2022;Whereas the report calls for clergy from religions which have a different view on gender and sexuality than the Department of National Defence to be banned as chaplains in the Canadian Armed Forces;Whereas the report slanders even mainstream Canadian religions as discriminatory, misogynist, and sexist;Whereas all Canadians, including members and chaplains of the Canadian Armed Forces, are entitled to the Charter-guaranteed right of freedom of religion;Whereas Canadian Armed Forces chaplains serve all members of the Forces without distinction on the basis of religion, gender, or sexual orientation; andWhereas discrimination on the basis of religion is wrong and offensive to Canadians.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Reject the recommendations on chaplaincy in the Canadian Armed Forces in the final report of the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination; and2. Affirm the right of all Canadians, including Canadian Armed Forces chaplains, to freedom of religion.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayLast April, the Minister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination released a comprehensive set of recommendations to ensure Canada’s military is safe and welcoming for all. Work is underway to assess the implications of the Advisory Panel’s recommendations, including those on the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, and the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff is coordinating an analysis of each recommendation.The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service’s (RCChS) primary goal is the care of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, without exceptions. It is already the expectation that CAF chaplains uphold the values and ethos of the CAF, just like every other member of the military. When chaplains apply for their roles within the chaplaincy, they undergo a rigorous process to assess their ability to provide spiritual support within the context of CAF values. Anyone who successfully makes it through this assessment has demonstrated their ability to provide religious or spiritual counsel to CAF members of all or no faiths, without judgement or exception.To this end, the RCChS continues to embrace CAF values and ethos, and has taken significant steps in the past several years to strengthen its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For example, as of 2019, in order to better serve the CAF and represent the religious/spiritual diversity of Canadian society, the RCChS sought to include a wider number of traditions not previously represented in CAF chaplaincy. This resulted in the enrollment of chaplains from Sikh, Buddhist, and Humanist traditions. The RCChS also shifted from the historical requirement of “ordained” status to a more broadly defined status of “credentialed as a faith tradition leader.” In doing so, the RCChS has ensured wider opportunities for women from faith traditions where they cannot be ordained, but who meet qualification standards for CAF chaplaincy as credentialed faith tradition leaders. This is already the case for Roman Catholic and Muslim women, currently serving in the RCChS, and will now be an option for women from other faith traditions.To further promote diversity and inclusion, the RCChS has instituted several new advisor positions, including an Indigenous Advisor, 2SLGBTQi+ Advisor, Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Advisor, Gender Advisor, and Advisor to the Commander of Chief Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC) in an effort to raise awareness, educate, and innovate. These advisors play a critical role in providing strategic input and advice to ensure direction and guidance, and programs integrate diverse perspectives with a view to enhancing inclusive engagement on behalf of the RCChS. The CAF continues to take positive steps to ensure that the chaplaincy represents Canadian society and supports the needs of its broader membership.
Canadian ForcesChaplaincy services and chaplainsMinister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism, Discrimination with a focus on anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism, LGBTQ2+ Prejudice, Gender Bias and White SupremacyReligious discrimination
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00085441-00085 (Justice)GregMcLeanCalgary CentreConservativeABDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022May 29, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00093441-00093 (Justice)DanMuysFlamborough—GlanbrookConservativeONDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022May 29, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 30, 2022441-00180441-00180 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABFebruary 14, 2022March 30, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00066441-00066 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00088441-00088 (Justice)ScotDavidsonYork—SimcoeConservativeONDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00080441-00080 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00098441-00098 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00105441-00105 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00087441-00087 (Justice)MichaelBarrettLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau LakesConservativeONDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 15, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00101441-00101 (Justice)MelissaLantsmanThornhillConservativeONDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00097441-00097 (Justice)EricMelilloKenoraConservativeONDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00077441-00077 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00989441-00989 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00030441-00030 (Environment)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the reduction of global net carbon emissions is a critical endeavor in our fight against climate change;Whereas, the Liberal Government committed to net-zero emissions by 2050;Whereas, the Liberal Government committed to exceed Canada's 2030 goal by introducing new carbon reducing measures;Whereas, Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a leading measure to reduce global carbon emissions.Therefore we, the undersigned, Citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to introduce new tax incentives to attract CCUS investment to Canada.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of accelerating action to fight climate change and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This is why, in addition to a number of other incentives to support carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), Budget 2021 announced an investment tax credit for capital invested in CCUS projects. The government intends to make the investment tax credit available starting in 2022, with the goal of reducing emissions by at least 15 megatonnes of CO2 annually.Strengthened Climate PlanCanada’s strengthened climate plan, “A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy”, was announced in December 2020. It proposes measures to cut energy waste, provide clean and affordable transportation and power, build Canada’s clean industrial advantage, and support nature based climate solutions. It also proposes to put a rising price on pollution through to 2030. The plan is supported by an initial $15 billion in investments that will create jobs, grow the middle class, and support workers in a stronger and cleaner economy. This is in addition to the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s $6 billion for clean infrastructure that was announced in the fall.CCUS technologies will play a role in helping Canada exceed its 2030 Paris Agreement emissions reductions target. Under the proposed strengthened climate plan, CCUS projects can benefit from credits that are generated under carbon pricing regimes, and the Clean Fuel Standard if projects reduce the carbon intensity of fuels for fuel suppliers. The plan also provides direct support that may be available for CCUS investments through a new Net Zero Accelerator that will provide $8 billion over seven years via the Strategic Innovation Fund. The fund is expected to face high demand as it aims to rapidly expedite decarbonization projects with large emitters, scale-up clean technology, and accelerate Canada’s industrial transformation across all sectors. Budget 2021 also announced $319 million over seven years to Natural Resources Canada to support research, development, and demonstrations that would improve the commercial viability of CCUS. Certain projects could also be complemented by funding under the $1.5 billion Low-carbon and Zero-emissions Fuels Fund to increase the production and use of low-carbon fuels. As well, investments by Sustainable Development Technology Canada will support further advancement of pre-commercial clean technologies.As announced in the strengthened climate plan, work is underway to develop a comprehensive CCUS strategy and explore other opportunities to help keep Canada globally competitive in this growing industry. It is important that governments continue to work with stakeholders to determine the best approach to leveraging this technology in Canada.Tax SupportThe government intends for the new investment tax credit announced in Budget 2021 to be available for a broad range of CCUS applications across different industrial subsectors, including blue hydrogen projects and direct air capture projects. It is not intended that the investment tax credit be available for Enhanced Oil Recovery projects. The Department of Finance Canada is carrying out an extensive consultation on the investment tax credit that gave stakeholders from all industrial subsectors, provincial and territorial governments, as well as other interested parties or members of the public an opportunity to provide input on the design of the investment tax credit. On the same timeline, the government will consider how equivalent tax support could be provided to producers of green hydrogen. Active engagement with stakeholders is still ongoing.The Accelerated Investment Incentive that was announced in the 2018 Fall Economic Statement provides an enhanced first-year allowance for certain eligible property that is subject to Capital Cost Allowance rules. CCUS projects are typically capital intensive and can benefit from a more rapid expensing of capital for the purpose of calculating business income tax. The incentive applies to property acquired after November 20, 2018, and that is available for use before 2028. A phase-out will begin for property that becomes available for use after 2023.Support for Transitioning SectorsThe Government of Canada has also announced support for high emitting sectors of the economy to assist them with their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As part of the Government’s COVID economic response plan, $2.8 billion has been allocated for the energy sector to support workers and reduce emissions. This includes $750 million for the Emissions Reduction Fund to help oil and gas companies reduce methane emissions, $1.7 billion to the Western provinces and the Alberta Orphan Wells Association to support work to clean up orphan and inactive oil and gas wells, and $320 million for Newfoundland and Labrador to support workers in the offshore sector. This funding will sustain jobs in the energy sector while cleaning up the environment. In addition, the Government has committed $185 million to support communities and workers affected by the phase out of coal-fired electricity through measures aimed at skills development and economic diversification. The Government will continue to work with high emitting sectors as Canada transitions to a low-carbon economy.
Carbon capture, utilization and storageForeign investments in CanadaTax measures
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00029441-00029 (Business and trade)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the government has acknowledged publicly that small businesses will bear the brunt of the economic downturn resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to adopt the 2017 recommendations of the Alberta Jobs Taskforce and create a bipartisan, equal membership committee to develop a small business action plan that will take into account the realities of all communities in Canada, not just those that favour a particular election outcome.
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY ARIF VIRANIThe Government understands the petitioners request for a bipartisan equal membership committee to develop a small business action plan. Since the pandemic arose, the Government has been hard at work, in Alberta and around the country, to not only deliver vaccines for every eligible Canadian but also address the needs of small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The Government rolled out numerous programs at the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis to prevent economic scarring and help workers and employers get through the pandemic.As Canada is entering a new phase, the Government has recovered lost jobs, increased vaccination rates and reopened our borders. Government programs have protected millions of jobs and helped hundreds of thousands of Canadian businesses keep going, but they were always meant to be temporary, as such some of our programs have been extended and some have ended. This response includes recent initiatives such as the Canada Recovery Hiring Program, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit, extending the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit until May 2022, and extending the loan forgiveness repayment deadline for the Canada Emergency Business Account to the end of December 2023, to ensure that affected businesses and workers will continue to have the support they need to get through the pandemic.The Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program (THRP) targets tourism and hospitality industries that have been affected by the pandemic and are still struggling. This program started on October 24, 2021, and will end on May 7, 2022. The THRP will provide rent and wage subsidies with a maximum rate of 75% for both and the rates will be reduced by half starting March 13, 2022, until the end of the Program in May 2022. Eligible businesses will have to demonstrate an average monthly revenue reduction of at least 40% between March 2020 and February 2021, and a current-month revenue loss of at least 40%. The Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program (HHBRP) is a program that will provide support to businesses that are not eligible for the THRP and have been facing hardships due to the pandemic. Eligible businesses have to have an average monthly revenue reduction of at least 50% between March 2020 and February 2021, and a current-month revenue loss of at least 50%.To better support individual workers in the face of the new Omicron variant, the federal government expanded the definition of a public health lockdown for the purposes of the Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit. The Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit is a program that replaces the Canadian Recovery Benefit and provides income support to those workers in regions where provincial or territorial governments have introduced capacity-limiting restrictions of 50 per cent or more. This program will run until February 12, 2022. The benefit will provide $300 a week for the duration of the lockdown, and be available to workers irrespective of their Employment Insurance (EI) eligibility (although EI benefits cannot be paid for the same periods). This benefit does not apply to workers whose loss of income is due to their refusal to adhere to a vaccine mandate.  As the Omicron variant spreads and new regional public health restriction are put in place to limit capacity, the government is temporarily expanding the Local Lockdown Program to better support workers and businesses. The Local Lockdown Program has been expanded to include employers subject to capacity-limiting restrictions of 50 per cent or more; and reduce the current-month revenue decline threshold requirement to 25 per cent. Eligible employers will receive wage and rent subsidies from 25 per cent up to a maximum of 75 per cent, depending on their degree of revenue loss. The 12-month revenue decline test continues to not be required in order to access this support. These updated regulations will apply from December 19, 2021, to February 12, 2022.Almost 900,000 small businesses accessed Canada Emergency Business Account loans to help maintain operations through this difficult time. By extending the repayment deadline, we are ensuring that these hard working business owners are able to focus on their operations and building back from this pandemic stronger than ever.The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that Canadian small businesses need to adopt digital technologies to meet customers’ needs and to stay competitive. The government recently launched the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), a $1.4 billion investment over four years to help as many as 160,000 small businesses go digital, take advantage of e-commerce, and become more competitive in Canada and abroad. CDAP will create training and work opportunities for as many as 28,000 young people.To help small businesses recover and grow, Budget 2021 contains the new Canada Recovery Hiring Program that will run from June to November 2021, and provide up to $595 million to make it easier for businesses to bring back laid off workers or to hire new ones. The government is proposing to extend this program to May 2022. The Jobs and Growth Fund is a $700-million federal program that supports regional job creation and position local economies for long-term growth. This includes up to $70 million dedicated to businesses created after January 2020 that meet the eligibility criteria. The fund will help job creators and the organizations that support them future-proof their businesses, build resiliency and prepare for growth by supporting the transition to a green economy, fostering an inclusive recovery, enhancing Canada’s competitiveness through digital adoption to improve productivity and manufacturing processes and strengthening capacity in sectors critical to Canada's recovery and growth. This program supports activities that foster an inclusive recovery, including those that support businesses owned or majority-led by underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous peoples, members of racialized communities, women, youth, LGBTQ2, persons with disabilities, newcomers to Canada, and members of official language minority communities.Over the next four years, the Budget proposes up to $146.9 million to strengthen the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES). This new investment will focus on affordable financing, increasing data and strengthening ecosystem capacity by providing women entrepreneurs with greater access to financing, mentorship and training, as well as supporting the WES Ecosystem Fund.Last year, our government launched the Canada’s first ever Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) to help Black business owners and entrepreneurs recover from the pandemic, grow their businesses, and succeed now and into the future. The BEP is part of a broader Government of Canada commitment to address systemic barriers and racism against Black Canadians. The Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund is a partnership between the Government of Canada, Black-led business organizations, and several financial institutions. It will provide loans up to $250,000 to Black business owners and entrepreneurs across the country.These measures will provide affordable financing to these businesses and strengthen capacity within the entrepreneurship ecosystem.The Government of Canada is committed to examining any further supports needed to ensure that Canadian small businesses can continue to remain viable now and in the future. We have always had the backs of Canadians, and we will always have the backs of Canadians as we build an economy that is stronger, fairer, more competitive and more prosperous for all Canadians.
COVID-19Economic slowdownPandemicSmall and medium-sized enterprises
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 18, 2022441-00348441-00348 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 4, 2022May 18, 2022February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, Alberta has faced systemic economic discrimination against its people and interests by Governments and ideologies that advocate for the shutting down or phasing out of Alberta's energy infrastructure. The consequences of these actions have been the loss of wealth, prosperity, opportunity, wellness, and the ability for Alberta to operate as an equal partner in confederation; Whereas, Albertans cannot remain silent in the face of this ongoing discrimination against its people, lands, and resources; Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Formally recognize Alberta's place as an equal partner in the federation. 2. Remove any barriers to Alberta being able to develop its resources without interference. 3. Ensure unfettered access to international markets for those resources.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada recognizes that Alberta is indispensable to the social and economic fabric of Canada and it is committed to supporting Alberta families, workers and businesses. The Government provides significant financial support to all provinces and territories to support social programs. In 2021-22, Alberta will receive $6.8 billion through major transfers to help pay for health care, education and other social services.The Government of Canada is committed to fostering productive relationships with all provinces and territories, including Alberta.The Government recognizes that Albertans have faced economic challenges in recent years due to declines in commodity prices and limited capacity to export products, including oil.The Government took significant action to assist Alberta’s economy with the 2018 purchase of Trans Mountain Corporation, which is overseeing the completion of the Trans Mountain Expansion project, which will significantly increase Alberta’s oil export capacity.We are committed to get Canadian resources to new markets, and offer unwavering support to those in Canada’s natural resource sectors who have faced tough times recently.The Government of Canada has also worked very closely with the Government of Alberta to manage the current COVID-19 situation in a number of areas. The Government of Canada is providing support to Albertans and Alberta businesses, including the oil and gas industry.The Government recognizes that energy-producing regions are facing the compounding challenges of COVID-19 and the shock to oil prices. In addition to a range of programs to support individuals and businesses, the Government of Canada has notably provided $1 billion to the Government of Alberta to support the province’s work to clean up inactive oil and gas wells across the province and $200 million to the Alberta Orphan Wells Association to support its work to clean up orphan oil and gas wells and well sites across Alberta.We know that Canada only succeeds when every region and province – including Alberta – succeeds. 
AlbertaEnergy and fuelFederal-provincial-territorial relationsMarket access
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00107441-00107 (Taxation)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the government's carbon tax system results in GST being applied to carbon taxes, ultimately leading to double taxation on essential goods and services and additional costs being filtered down to consumers.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to eliminate the GST on the federal carbon tax, levies, and additional costs the newly announced standards charges.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandOur economy and the quality of life we have in Canada are deeply connected to the health of our environment. Pollution is not free. Canadians pay the price when extreme weather threatens their safety, their health, their communities and their livelihoods.That is why our Government has taken action to ensure that there is a price on pollution across Canada as of 2019. Pricing pollution is generally viewed as one of the most economically efficient ways to send a price signal to companies, investors, and consumers to make more environmentally sustainable choices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is central to our country’s plan to meet our emissions reduction targets, grow the economy and build resilience to a changing climate.The federal pollution pricing system applies in provinces and territories that request it or that do not have a system in place that meets the federal benchmark. It has two components: a regulatory charge on fossil fuels (“fuel charge”) and an output-based pricing system for large industry. One or both components of the federal system currently apply in Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Yukon and Nunavut. The direct proceeds from the federal pollution pricing system will remain in the province or territory of origin. In Prince Edward Island, Yukon and Nunavut, the direct proceeds from the federal system are returned directly to the governments of these jurisdictions. In Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta, the Government of Canada is returning the bulk of the direct proceeds from the fuel charge directly to individuals and families, through tax-free Climate Action Incentive payments. For example, in Alberta for 2021, the baseline amount for a single adult was $490, while the baseline amount for a family of four was $981. People claimed these payments through their 2020 personal income tax returns. Budget 2021 proposed changing the delivery of CAI payments from a refundable credit claimed annually on personal income tax returns to quarterly payments made through the benefit system. This will deliver Canadians’ CAI payments on a more regular basis. These quarterly payments would start in 2022.With respect to the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax, the GST/HST is calculated on the final amount charged for a good or service. The general rule that was adopted at the inception of the GST, when it was introduced by Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, is that this final amount includes other taxes, levies and charges that apply to the good or service and that may be embedded in the final price. This longstanding approach to calculating the GST/HST helps to maintain the broad-based nature of the tax, and ensures that tax is applied evenly across goods and services consumed in Canada. It also simplifies the vendor’s calculation of the amount of tax payable since the vendor is not required to back out other taxes, levies and charges at the point of sale in order to determine the amount of GST/HST payable.A fair and efficient tax system is essential to the economic and social well-being of Canadians. Our Government’s approach to tax fairness is guided by the overall objective of building an economy that works for the middle class and those who are working hard to join it
Carbon pricingCarbon taxGoods and services tax
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 6, 2022441-00258441-00258 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 23, 2022May 6, 2022February 13, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the government continues to allow refineries to import foreign oil, in spite of a struggling oil and gas industry in Canada that extracts and refines the most ethically sourced oil in the world, ultimately resulting in additional environmental impact due to the lower standards for foreign oil extraction which is not subject to the same rigorous environmental assessments and criteria as Canada. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately put in place a plan for an east/west energy corridor to replace foreign oil so that Canada's source of oil and crude remains in Canada serving the dual function of economic stimulus and environmental protection.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada maintains a market-based energy policy that relies on the private sector to decide when and where energy projects should be brought forward. The Government recognizes the importance of accessing new and emerging markets for our natural resources. Canada is committed to developing these resources in a sustainable manner that protects Canada’s rich natural environment, respects the rights of Indigenous peoples, and supports a more resilient natural resources sector. This resiliency includes developing infrastructure that aligns with Canada’s stringent environmental and safety standards. Resource corridors may be a means of achieving these objectives, when they meet relevant regulatory and market requirements. Building infrastructure along existing utility, rail and road rights of way is one approach that Canada’s industry uses to minimize the impact of new projects on the environment and communities. At this time, there is no project application to build a west-east crude oil pipeline. If a new proposal is put forward, federal regulators will provide a fair and rigorous review process. The Government of Canada will consider whether to approve a project once the review is complete and public and Indigenous consultations have concluded. Crude oil is a globally traded commodity for which purchasing decisions are made according to supply and demand fundamentals. Canada’s market-based energy framework allows refineries to source oil at the most competitive rates available, which ensures that adequate supplies of refined products are available to Canadian consumers at the lowest cost. While Canada has the third-largest proven reserves of crude oil in the world, some refiners in central and Eastern Canada do import crude oil, due to several factors. Different refineries require different grades of crude oil, for instance, and central and Eastern refineries are configured to process lighter grades of oil.  Refineries in Ontario and Quebec do process significant volumes of Canadian oil, shipped via pipeline such as Enbridge’s Line 5 and Line 78 which bring Canadian oil into Sarnia, and then via Enbridge Line 9 into Quebec. In 2021, 66% of Canada’s crude oil imports came from the United States.  The Government of Canada is taking action to keep our energy supply secure today, while preparing for an increasingly low carbon future.
Oil and gasPipeline transportation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00109441-00109 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the demand and the need for oil and gas in Canada is still many years away from being eliminated. Whereas, Alberta and Western Canada produces the most environmental oil and gas with the highest labour standards compared to other countries.Whereas, Canadians should be only using oil and gas from Alberta and Western Canada before importing any other country. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Eliminate all importation of foreign oil and gas into Canada within the next five years; thus, creating more jobs and building a better economy.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Many major Canadian oil and gas companies have committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The federal government is working with them to do so by placing a decreasing cap on emissions from the sector, as the Prime Minister announced at COP26 in November 2021.As Canada moves towards net-zero emissions by 2050, the Government wants to ensure the continued prosperity of energy workers across Canada. To that end, the Minister of Natural Resources has asked Canada Energy Regulator to undertake scenario analysis consistent with Canada achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This includes fully modelled scenarios of supply and demand of all energy commodities in Canada, including clean fuels, electricity, and oil and gas. This will take place as the federal government works with municipalities, provinces, Indigenous groups, unions, and industry to ensure that energy workers from coast to coast to coast are front and center of the transition toward a clean future for Canadians.Crude oil is a globally-traded commodity for which purchasing decisions are dictated by supply and demand fundamentals. Canada’s market-based energy framework allows the private sector to determine crude oil and petroleum product flows. Companies make their own decisions based on market conditions.
ImportsOil and gas
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2022441-00759441-00759 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 18, 2022December 1, 2022February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the demand and the need for oil and gas in Canada is still many years away from being eliminated. Whereas, Alberta and Western Canada produces the most environmental oil and gas with the highest labour standards compared to other countries.Whereas, Canadians should be only using oil and gas from Alberta and Western Canada before importing any other country. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Eliminate all importation of foreign oil and gas into Canada within the next five years; thus, creating more jobs and building a better economy.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canadian imports of foreign oil are over 40% lower than what they were under the previous Conservative government – and imports of foreign oil from outside the US have declined 80% since 2010.The federal government is supporting workers across Canada. Through initiatives such as the Regional Energy and Resources Tables, the government is working with provinces and territories to identify the top economic opportunities presented by the global shift to a net-zero world – and jointly seizing those opportunities to create sustainable jobs for Canadian workers.The government is working actively with the oil and gas industry to lower emissions, deploy clean technologies, and create sustainable jobs in every oil and gas-producing region of this country – including Alberta and Western Canada, but also including Newfoundland and Labrador.
ImportsOil and gas
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00136441-00136 (Business and trade)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 3, 2022March 21, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the government has acknowledged publicly that small businesses will bear the brunt of the economic downturn resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to adopt the 2017 recommendations of the Alberta Jobs Taskforce and create a bipartisan, equal membership committee to develop a small business action plan that will take into account the realities of all communities in Canada, not just those that favour a particular election outcome.
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY ARIF VIRANISince the pandemic arose, the Government has been hard at work, in Alberta and around the country, to not only deliver vaccines for every eligible Canadian but also address the needs of small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The Government rolled out numerous programs at the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis to prevent economic scarring and help workers and employers get through the pandemic.As Canada is entering a new phase, the Government has recovered lost jobs, increased vaccination rates and reopened our borders. Government programs have protected millions of jobs and helped hundreds of thousands of Canadian businesses keep going, but they were always meant to be temporary, as such some of our programs have been extended and some have ended. This response includes temporarily expanding eligibility for key support programs offered for workers and businesses, extending initiatives such as the Canada Recovery Hiring Program (CRHP), the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) until May 2022, and extending the loan forgiveness repayment deadline for the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) to the end of December 2023, to ensure that affected businesses and workers will continue to have the support they need to get through the pandemic.For businesses facing pandemic-related losses, support is also now available through the Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program (THRP) and the Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program (HHBRP).The THRP will provide support to tourism and hospitality businesses with wage and rent subsidies of up to 75 per cent. Eligible applicants include hotels, travel agents, tour operators, restaurants and other businesses directly related to tourism. This program started on October 24, 2021, and will end on May 7, 2022.The HHBRP is a program that will provide support to businesses that are not eligible for the THRP and have been facing hardships due to the pandemic with wage and rent subsidies of up to 50 per cent.To better support individual workers in the face of the Omicron variant, the Government temporary expanded the definition of a public health lockdown for the purposes of the Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit (CWLB). The CWLB is a program that replaces the Canadian Recovery Benefit (CRB) and provides $300 a week to workers who are directly affected by a COVID-related local lockdown and is available to eligible workers retroactively from October 24, 2021, to May 7, 2022. As the Omicron variant spread and new regional public health restriction were put in place to limit capacity, the Local Lockdown Program was there to provide employers facing temporary new local lockdowns with a subsidy rate of up to 75 per cent through the wage and rent subsidy programs. This program was meant to ensure that local authorities and public health officials could continue to make the right public health choices, knowing that support would be there for workers and businesses if needed.Because of the CEBA, nearly 900,000 small businesses have been able to maintain operations through this difficult time. Eligible businesses have accessed more than $49 billion in federal support, and because many small businesses continue to face pandemic-related challenges, in January of this year the Government extended the repayment deadline for loans, to qualify for partial loan forgiveness, to the end of 2023. This extension will support short-term economic recovery, ensuring that loan-holders are provided consistent and fair treatment no matter where they live. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that Canadian small businesses need to adopt digital technologies to meet customers’ needs and to stay competitive.The Government launched the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), an investment of $4 billion over four years, $1.4 billion in funding through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and $2.6 billion in Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) loans, to help as many as 160,000 small businesses go digital, take advantage of e-commerce, and become more competitive in Canada and abroad. CDAP will create training and work opportunities for as many as 28,000 young people.To help small businesses recover and grow, Budget 2021 contained the new Canada Recovery Hiring Program (CRHP) that was expected to run from June to November 2021, and provide up to $595 million to make it easier for businesses to bring back laid off workers or to hire new ones. The Government has extended this program to May 2022.The Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF) is a $700-million federal program that supports regional job creation and position local economies for long-term growth. This includes up to $70 million dedicated to businesses created after January 2020 that meet the eligibility criteria. The fund will help job creators and the organizations that support them future-proof their businesses, build resiliency and prepare for growth by supporting the transition to a green economy, fostering an inclusive recovery, enhancing Canada’s competitiveness through digital adoption to improve productivity and manufacturing processes and strengthening capacity in sectors critical to Canada's recovery and growth. This program supports activities that foster an inclusive recovery, including those that support businesses owned or majority-led by underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous peoples, members of racialized communities, women, youth, LGBTQ2, persons with disabilities, newcomers to Canada, and members of official language minority communities.Over the next four years, the Government is investing up to $146.9 million to strengthen the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES). This new investment focuses on affordable financing, increasing data and strengthening ecosystem capacity by providing women entrepreneurs with greater access to financing, mentorship and training. On March 8, 2022, the Government announced the first four not-for-profit delivery organizations which have been selected to deliver microloans through the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund. The Loan Fund will provide loans up to $50,000 to women business owners and entrepreneurs across the country. As well, the Government recently launched a new call for proposals for the WES Ecosystem Fund to help business support organizations to strengthen capacity and address ecosystem gaps for diverse populations of women entrepreneurs.Last year, the Government launched the Canada’s first ever Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) to help Black business owners and entrepreneurs recover from the pandemic, grow their businesses, and succeed now and into the future. The BEP is part of a broader Government of Canada commitment to address systemic barriers and racism against Black Canadians. The Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund is a partnership between the Government of Canada, Black-led business organizations, and several financial institutions. It will provide loans up to $250,000 to Black business owners and entrepreneurs across the country.We have also heard concerns about the pandemic's impact on our supply chains. That is why the Government announced a call for proposals under the national trade corridors fund, which has allocated up to $50 million to support projects designed to eliminate supply chain congestion. We know good transportation infrastructure and efficient trade corridors are crucial to Canadian businesses' success in the global market. These combined measures will provide affordable financing to businesses in Alberta and across Canada, and help strengthen capacity within the entrepreneurship ecosystem.The Government of Canada is committed to examining any further supports needed to ensure that Canadian small businesses can continue to meet the challenges of the pandemic and post-pandemic for years to come. We have and will continue to support Canadians by focusing on climate change, advancing reconciliation with indigenous peoples and building an economy that is stronger, fairer, more prosperous and sustainable for the long term.
COVID-19Economic slowdownPandemicSmall and medium-sized enterprises
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00532441-00532 (Taxation)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the government's carbon tax system results in GST being applied to carbon taxes, ultimately leading to double taxation on essential goods and services and additional costs being filtered down to consumers.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to eliminate the GST on the federal carbon tax, levies, and additional costs the newly announced standards charges.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandClimate change is an existential challenge, and climate action is critical to Canada’s long-term health and economic prosperity. Carbon pricing is widely recognized as effective and the most efficient means of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, which is why our government has made sure that it is no longer free to pollute in Canada.The federal price on pollution is revenue neutral for the federal government; the direct proceeds from the federal carbon pricing system remain in the province or territory where they are collected. Put simply, every dollar collected from the carbon price is returned.In Prince Edward Island, Yukon, and Nunavut, the direct proceeds from the federal system are returned to the governments of these jurisdictions. In provinces that do not have a fuel charge consistent with the federal benchmark—Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta—approximately 90 percent of direct proceeds are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments. Most households receive more in CAI payments than the costs they face from the federal price on pollution.In 2022-23, these payments mean a family of four will receive $745 in Ontario, $832 in Manitoba, $1,101 in Saskatchewan, and $1,079 in Alberta. In addition, families in rural and small communities are eligible to receive an extra 10 per cent.  Climate Action Incentive payments will begin to be delivered as quarterly payments starting July of this year instead of a refundable credit claimed annually on personal income tax returns.The remaining fuel charge proceeds are used to support small businesses, farmers, Indigenous groups, and other organizations.  Going forward, the federal carbon price will continue to be revenue neutral for the Government of Canada.With respect to the application of the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST), the GST/HST is calculated on the final amount charged for a good or service.  The general rule that was adopted under Prime Minister Mulroney at the inception of the GST, and carried over for the HST, is that this final amount includes other taxes, levies, and charges that apply to the good or service and are generally embedded in the final price.  This longstanding approach to calculating the GST/HST ensures that tax is applied evenly across goods and services consumed in Canada.  It also makes it easier for vendors to calculate the amount of tax payable, for consumers to understand, and for the Canada Revenue Agency to administer.
Carbon pricingCarbon taxGoods and services tax
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00446441-00446 (Environment)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 11, 2022August 17, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the reduction of global net carbon emissions is a critical endeavor in our fight against climate change;Whereas, the Liberal Government committed to net-zero emissions by 2050;Whereas, the Liberal Government committed to exceed Canada's 2030 goal by introducing new carbon reducing measures;Whereas, Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a leading measure to reduce global carbon emissions.Therefore we, the undersigned, Citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to introduce new tax incentives to attract CCUS investment to Canada.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandIn Budget 2022, the Government of Canada proposed the final design of the investment tax credit for carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) projects that was first announced in Budget 2021. The investment tax credit would be refundable, and available for business that incur eligible CCUS expenses starting in 2022. It has the goal of reducing emissions from CCUS by at least 15 megatonnes of CO2 annually.The credit would provide support to reduce the large, upfront capital costs associated with the construction of CCUS, with a rate as high as 50 percent for equipment to capture CO2, and 60 percent for this equipment in the case of direct air capture projects. Tax support will be available for a broad range of CCUS applications across different industrial subsectors, including blue hydrogen projects, and could be used to help reduce emissions in oil and gas, chemical production, electricity generation, or other sectors. The investment tax credit would be available for CCUS projects to the extent that captured CO2 goes to an eligible use, which includes dedicated geological storage, or storage in concrete, but does not include enhanced oil recovery.
Carbon capture, utilization and storageForeign investments in CanadaTax measures
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 5, 2022441-00238441-00238 (Animals)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 22, 2022May 5, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the Government of Canada has proposed amendments to the Health of Animals Regulations, Part XV (15) (Livestock identification and traceability) which pose a threat to the future of agricultural exhibitions, fairs, and rodeos; Whereas, these proposed changes would place onerous regulations on volunteer-run agricultural exhibitions fairs, and rodeos and discourage their operation; Whereas, Provincial and National Associations for Agricultural Societies, Exhibitions, and Fairs have raised serious concerns with the proposed regulatory changes; Whereas, agricultural exhibitions, fairs, and rodeos are a pillar of Western Canadian heritage and enjoyed by Canadians across the country. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Consult carefully with Agricultural Societies, Exhibitions, and Fairs in developing these regulations. 2. Ensure that new traceability requirements do the operations of Agricultural Societies, Exhibitions, and Fairs so that future generations can continue to enjoy these pillars of Western Canadian heritage.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MPThe objective of the proposed amendments to Part XV of the Health of Animals Regulations is to provide more precise, complete, and timely information about animal movements in order to mitigate the social, economic, and environmental impacts of a disease outbreak, food safety issue, or natural disaster.The main pillars of a strong traceability program include animal identification, location identification, and animal movement reporting.Strengthening Canada’s Livestock Identification and Traceability Program with the proposed amendments will benefit the operators of fairs and exhibitions by reducing the risk of a cease-movement order in the event of a disease outbreak. In addition, fairs and exhibitions are sites where commingling of many different sources of animals can occur, and livestock traceability would be key during a disease investigation.Under the current regulations, cattle, bison, sheep, and pigs are required to be identified with a tag before leaving the site where they were born. If animals arrive at an intermediate site, such as a fair or exhibition, without the required tag, then a tag must be applied to any untagged animals received. In the proposed amendments, this requirement would only be new for goats and cervids.If an operator of a fair or exhibition does not want to have volunteers handle untagged animals, they can provide the tags, but have producers do the tagging. Another option is to communicate with their producers to ensure only animals with approved tags arrive at their site, and/or refuse to allow untagged animals on their site.A new requirement in the proposed amendments for fairs and exhibitions would be the need to report animals received on their site to industry-led databases (i.e., Canadian Cattle Identification Agency, DairyTrace, PigTRACE). After consultation with stakeholders, the design of the livestock trace program amendments were drafted with this Move-In reporting model. All sites receiving animals need to report this move-in, and maintaining this consistency is the main driver for fairs and exhibitions reporting reception of animals. The administrators for the trace databases all have easy-to-use, mobile-device-friendly apps for reporting this information. They also allow for reporting via telephone, mail, and fax.The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has been consulting on the proposed amendments since 2013, including with provinces and stakeholders across the livestock sector. Sector-specific industry associations, including the Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (CAFE), were consulted.To continue engagement and outreach with stakeholders, CFIA has also established a Regulatory Implementation Committee (RIC), with regular meetings, of which the provinces and impacted industry associations are members, including CAFE. In 2020, CFIA shared a plain language but detailed description of the proposed regulations with the RIC members and solicited further feedback.CFIA recognizes the concerns of the fairs and exhibitions with the proposed amendments and encourages them to continue to participate in the RIC meetings, and to also express their implementation issues in future consultations.After pre-publication in Part I of the Canada Gazette, citizens will have a 90-day period to provide comments. CFIA will also ensure further outreach with CAFE during this period. CFIA will review and consider all comments received prior to publishing the finalized regulations in Part II of the Canada Gazette.
Animal rights and welfareEventsLivestock
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00076441-00076 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022February 19, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, Canadian oil and gas producers are global environmental leaders;Whereas, Canadian oil is produced to the highest environmental standards in the world, and the Government needs to acknowledge the industry's pioneering efforts.Whereas, Oil sands producers reduced GHG emissions intensity by 28% from 2000 to 2017. Whereas, Oil & Gas is Canada's leading export and the number one private sector investor in the Canadian economy, representing 5.4% of Canada's GDP.Whereas, Oil sands producers have spent $13 billion with Indigenous-owned businesses since 2012, including a record $2.1 billion in 2018.Whereas, The Trans Mountain Expansion Project provided almost 8,000 jobs and contributed $76 million in personal, corporate, and sales tax. At its peak, the Project will employ 17,050 Canadian workers. Whereas, Trans Mountain Expansion was needed yesterday to get our resources to market. The continued uncertainty of Canada's ability to get our energy products to tidewater erodes global trust in Canada's energy sector.Whereas, The Fraser Institute indicates that Canada loses $16 billion annually because of lack of access to diverse markets for our oil. And the Parliamentary Budget Officer identifies that the Trans Mountain Expansion Project will mitigate this loss by $6 billion annually.Whereas, pipelines are the safest way and cleanest way to transport oil and gas;Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to expedite the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada approved the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMX, or the Project) in 2019 because it is in the public interest. When approving the Project, the Government of Canada considered a wide variety of information, including the latest evidence-based science and the review by the Canada Energy Regulator (formerly the National Energy Board), regarding the Project’s impacts on the environment. The Government of Canada also reviewed and considered the results of extensive consultations with 129 Indigenous groups. The Project is important to Canada’s economic future and, once complete, will facilitate increased exports to global markets, thus ensuring producers receive a fair price for petroleum products.Construction on the Project has continued during the COVID-19 pandemic, in full compliance with public health orders and directives. Necessary health and safety measures are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among workers and communities. Construction is well underway across British Columbia and Alberta, creating more than 12,600 middle-class jobs—including over 1,200 jobs for Indigenous workers. As of December 22, 2021, construction of TMX is approximately 43 percent complete, with over 340 kilometres of new pipeline in the ground. The anticipated in-service-date for the TMX Project is December 31, 2022.The Government of Canada is collaborating with all levels of government, Indigenous communities, federal and provincial regulators, and Trans Mountain Corporation to ensure that all necessary permits and regulatory authorizations are in place. On September 22, 2021, the Canada Energy Regulator issued its final order, approving all 1,147 kilometres of the Project’s route.While Canada transitions to a sustainable energy future, Canadians will still rely on access to oil and gas for their daily needs, including heating and transportation. Collaboration and consultation with the natural resource sector is essential in establishing the path towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, while promoting the development of good jobs and a prosperous clean economy.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about the importance of the oil and gas sector to the Canadian economy as well as views on expediting the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMEP).The environment and the economy go hand-in-hand. When we create prosperity today, we can invest in the clean jobs, technologies, and infrastructure of the future — and help Canadians benefit from opportunities presented by a rapidly changing economy.The key to creating prosperity is finding new markets for our businesses to sell their products and services. Nowhere is the need to diversify greater than for our energy sector, where 99 per cent of our conventional resources are sold to one market — and often at large discounts. Canadians understand that we need to open up new international markets, in order to get a full and fair price, support workers and their families, and foster competitiveness.The Government is confident that the TMEP will generate a positive return for Canadians.TMEP as it stands today is very different from the project that Kinder Morgan proposed in 2017. It has been designed to a higher standard for environmental protection, undergone rigorous consultation with Indigenous groups and will support union jobs in B.C. and Alberta. These enhancements have improved TMEP, ensured that construction proceeds in the right way, and that it will support the Canadian economy today and into the future.The Government also announced that every dollar the federal government earns from TMEP will be invested in Canada’s clean energy transition. It is estimated that additional tax revenues from TMEP alone could generate $500 million per year once the project has been completed. This money will be invested in clean energy projects that will power our homes, businesses, and communities for generations to come.
Oil and gasTrans Mountain pipeline
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00049441-00049 (Taxation)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 13, 2021January 31, 2022February 19, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the government's carbon tax system results in GST being applied to carbon taxes, ultimately leading to double taxation on essential goods and services and additional costs being filtered down to consumers.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to eliminate the GST on the federal carbon tax, levies, and additional costs the newly announced standards charges.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandOur economy and the quality of life we have in Canada are deeply connected to the health of our environment. Pollution is not free. Canadians pay the price when extreme weather threatens their safety, their health, their communities and their livelihoods.That is why our Government has taken action to ensure that there is a price on pollution across Canada as of 2019. Pricing pollution is generally viewed as one of the most economically efficient ways to send a price signal to companies, investors, and consumers to make more environmentally sustainable choices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is central to our country’s plan to meet our emissions reduction targets, grow the economy and build resilience to a changing climate.The federal pollution pricing system applies in provinces and territories that request it or that do not have a system in place that meets the federal benchmark. It has two components: a regulatory charge on fossil fuels (“fuel charge”) and an output-based pricing system for large industry. One or both components of the federal system currently apply in Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Yukon and Nunavut. The direct proceeds from the federal pollution pricing system will remain in the province or territory of origin. In Prince Edward Island, Yukon and Nunavut, the direct proceeds from the federal system are returned directly to the governments of these jurisdictions. In Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta, the Government of Canada is returning the bulk of the direct proceeds from the fuel charge directly to individuals and families, through tax-free Climate Action Incentive payments. For example, in Alberta for 2021, the baseline amount for a single adult was $490, while the baseline amount for a family of four was $981. People claimed these payments through their 2020 personal income tax returns. Budget 2021 proposed changing the delivery of CAI payments from a refundable credit claimed annually on personal income tax returns to quarterly payments made through the benefit system. This will deliver Canadians’ CAI payments on a more regular basis. These quarterly payments would start in 2022.With respect to the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax, the GST/HST is calculated on the final amount charged for a good or service. The general rule that was adopted at the inception of the GST, when it was introduced by Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, is that this final amount includes other taxes, levies and charges that apply to the good or service and that may be embedded in the final price. This longstanding approach to calculating the GST/HST helps to maintain the broad-based nature of the tax, and ensures that tax is applied evenly across goods and services consumed in Canada. It also simplifies the vendor’s calculation of the amount of tax payable since the vendor is not required to back out other taxes, levies and charges at the point of sale in order to determine the amount of GST/HST payable.A fair and efficient tax system is essential to the economic and social well-being of Canadians. Our Government’s approach to tax fairness is guided by the overall objective of building an economy that works for the middle class and those who are working hard to join it.
Carbon pricingCarbon taxGoods and services tax
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00603441-00603 (Taxation)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 16, 2022September 20, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the Liberal government's Carbon Tax has placed farmers and ranchers in a carbon tax trap. Our global competitors are not burdened by tens of thousands of dollars of carbon tax debt while Canadian farmers and ranchers do not have the ability to add the carbon tax levy to the price of their product. Instead, they are subject to paying this tax as it is levied by their input suppliers; Whereas, the Liberal government knows what the true cost of this ill-conceived tax will be on Canadian farmers over the coming years since it has undertaken several studies on the impact of the Carbon Tax on farmers, but it has also consistently refused to release their findings to Canadians; Whereas, according to a report from the Parliamentary Budget Officer based on Statistics Canada information, the average farm in Alberta with about 850 seeded acres of crops can expect to see the Liberal government's carbon tax cost it slightly more than $17,000 per year, once the tax reaches $50 per tonne in 2022; Whereas, the Liberal government has now announced that the Carbon Tax will increase to $170 per tonne by 2030 even though the Liberal government denied they would increase it beyond $50 per tonne during the last election; Whereas, the Liberal government is now also in the process of implementing a so-called Clean Fuel Standard initiative that some studies estimate will represent a total cost to the Canadian economy of $7 to $15 billion and 50,000 lost jobs, including an impact of $389 million to the Agricultural sector; Whereas, the high costs of the Clean Fuel Standard is even more questionable given the tax's unachievable emissions reduction goal. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Immediately exempt all direct and indirect input costs incurred by farmers as a result of the Carbon Tax. 2. Immediately cancel implementation of the Clean Fuel Standard which will have a devastating impact on the Canadian economy, including the agriculture sector.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MPThe Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food understands and acknowledges the concerns of the petitioners. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) recognizes that taking action to address climate change is critical and urgent, both for our environment and our economy. The Department is actively engaging with partners to ensure that Canadian farmers and ranchers remain competitive and that our water, air, and soil are sustainable for generations to come.Farmers are important drivers of the Canadian economy and play a key role in land stewardship and conservation. The Government recognizes their important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including through new land management practices and innovative technologies.The costs of inaction on climate change are enormous, as evidenced in the catastrophic weather events that have had severe impacts, including for Canadian farms. The costs of a changing climate mean that it cannot be free to pollute. Putting a price on carbon pollution is the most efficient way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as it reduces pollution at the lowest cost to businesses and households, and stimulates investments in clean innovation.The federal approach to price carbon pollution was specifically designed to provide targeted relief for farmers. For example, the federal fuel charge does not apply to gasoline and diesel used in tractors, trucks and other farm machinery. Commercial greenhouse operators receive an 80% exemption on the use of propane and natural gas, and there is no price on pollution for emissions from livestock and crop production. All proceeds from the federal price on pollution are returned to the province of origin, to individuals, families and businesses with rural families receiving a supplementary amount.AAFC recognizes that costs have gone up for some producers because of carbon pollution pricing applied to natural gas and propane. The Government is committing to a path forward that addresses such challenges, including new rebates for on-farm fuel use such as grain drying, to both support our food producers and encourage new investments in sustainable technologies that go beyond existing exemptions for farm fuels and rebates for greenhouses. As such, the Government has introduced a refundable tax credit this year for farm businesses operating in backstop jurisdictions. It is estimated that farmers will receive $100 million in the first year, and this amount is expected to increase in subsequent years as the price on carbon increases. This measure will help farmers transition to lower-carbon ways of farming while maintaining the price signal to reduce emissions.As well, the Government of Canada's recently announced Emissions Reduction Plan, confirmed in Budget 2022, provides over $1 billion in funding for the agriculture sector.This investment includes additional funding of $330 million for the Agricultural Clean Technologies Program, to support the development of transformative clean technologies and help farmers adopt commercially available clean technology, and $470 million for the On-Farm Climate Action Fund, which targets projects that accelerate emission reductions by improving nitrogen management, increasing adoption of cover cropping, and normalizing rotational grazing. As well, $150 million has been allocated for a Resilient Agricultural Landscapes Program to support carbon sequestration, adaptation and address other environmental co-benefits, and $100 million has been proposed to support fundamental and applied research, knowledge transfer, and developing metrics that will allow for net-zero emission agriculture.The Government of Canada also intends to develop a Green Agriculture Plan for Canada, in collaboration and engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, to provide an integrated and coordinated approach to addressing environmental issues in the sector. This includes climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience, water, biodiversity and soil health.Canada’s GHG Offset Credit System was launched on June 8, 2022, and encourages cost-effective, voluntary emissions reductions and removals across Canada from activities not covered by carbon pollution pricing, expanding the financial incentives to reduce carbon pollution across the economy. It could create economic opportunities for farmers who implement innovative projects to reduce carbon pollution.Current provincial and federal renewable fuels regulations have helped build a vibrant yet relatively small domestic biofuels industry, for which Canadian farmers and food processors supply high-quality feedstock. The renewable fuel industry is an important stable, domestic market, and a driver of market diversity for the agriculture and agri-food sectors. The Clean Fuel Regulations will include low-carbon and zero-emissions fuels and further enhance the opportunity for agriculture and agri-food sectors to provide low-carbon feedstock and contribute to Canadian climate change commitments, while providing farmers in Canada with more domestic marketing opportunities for their product.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOn climate change, the science is clear—we must take action now to protect our planet and secure our children’s future. But the economics are clear too: to build a strong, resilient economy for generations to come we must harness the power of a cleaner future.It is much harder to cut pollution if it is free to pollute. The principle is straightforward: a price on carbon pollution establishes how much businesses and households need to pay for their carbon pollution. The higher the price the greater the incentive to pollute less, conserve energy, and invest in low-carbon solutions.Canadians and businesses understand that putting a price on carbon pollution spurs the development of new technologies and services that can help reduce their emissions cost-effectively, from how they heat their homes to what kind of energy they use to do so. It also provides Canadians and businesses with an incentive to adopt these changes or solutions into their lives. That's why experts consistently recommend carbon pollution pricing as an efficient, effective approach to reducing emissions.Since 2019, every jurisdiction in Canada has had a comparable price on carbon pollution. Not only does this help fight climate change, it puts more money back into people's pockets. Canada's approach is flexible: any province or territory can design its own pricing system tailored to local needs, or it can choose the federal pricing system. The Government of Canada sets minimum national stringency standards (the "benchmark") that all systems must meet to ensure they are comparable and effective in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. If a province decides not to price carbon pollution, or proposes a system that does not meet these standards, the federal system is applied. In August 2021, the Government of Canada published strengthened benchmark criteria that all systems will need to meet from 2023-2030.A key element of the federal benchmark is the price on carbon pollution. The price on carbon pollution started at $20 per tonne of emissions in 2019 – and has been rising at a predictable rate of $10 per year to reach $50 in 2022. Starting in 2023, the price will start rising by $15 per year until it reaches $170 per tonne in 2030. The price schedule is laid out to 2030 to create certainty, which is important for attracting private sector investment.The federal carbon pollution pricing system has two parts: a regulatory charge on fossil fuels like gasoline and natural gas (the "fuel charge"), and a performance-based emissions trading system for industries known as the Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS).The Government of Canada recognizes the important role Canadian farms have to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions including through new land management practices and innovative technologies.The costs of inaction on climate change are enormous – as evidenced in the catastrophic weather events that have had severe impacts, including for Canadian farms. The costs of a changing climate mean that it cannot be free to pollute. It is well known that putting a price on carbon pollution is the most efficient way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and stimulate investments in clean innovation. It is critical to drive low-cost emission reductions and lay the foundation for a low carbon economy.The Government designed the federal approach to pricing carbon pollution to provide targeted relief for farmers. For example, the carbon pollution price does not apply to greenhouse gas emissions from livestock or crop production. In addition, the federal fuel charge does not apply to gasoline and diesel used in tractors, trucks and other eligible farm machinery. Moreover, all direct proceeds from the federal price on pollution are returned to the province of origin, to individuals, families and businesses, and rural families receive a supplementary amount.The Government of Canada is also creating economic opportunities through carbon offsets. Canada’s GHG Offset Credit System will encourage cost-effective, voluntary GHG emissions reductions and removals across Canada from activities that are not covered by carbon pollution pricing and that go beyond legal requirements and common practices. The system was launched on June 8, 2022, including publication of final regulations and the first federal offset protocol on Landfill Methane Recovery and Destruction. Agriculture sector protocols currently under development include Livestock Feed Management and Enhanced Soil Organic Carbon. This system will create opportunities for farmers who implement projects to reduce GHG emissions or sequester carbon to earn revenue for GHG reductions.This is an example of another tool we are using to combat climate change, and create a cleaner, healthier future, and create new economic opportunities. It is part of the Government of Canada’s larger strategy, which also includes over $350 million in new agro-environmental programs as outlined in A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy.Taking serious climate action is an important economic opportunity that will maintain and create Canadian jobs, and make Canada’s economy more competitive.The Clean Fuel Regulations are a key part of Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan - Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy. The Clean Fuel Regulations aim to reduce emissions and accelerate the use of clean technologies and fuels. It is estimated that the Clean Fuel Regulations will result in up to 26.6 million tonnes of GHG emissions reductions in 2030.The Regulations will work in combination with other federal, provincial, and territorial climate change policies to create an incentive for firms to invest in innovative technologies and fuels by setting long-term, predictable and stringent targets. The broad range of compliance strategies allowed under the Regulations will also allow fossil fuel suppliers the flexibility to choose the lowest-cost compliance actions available.The Regulations will establish a credit market whereby the annual carbon intensity (CI) reduction requirement could be met via three main categories of credit-creating actions:
  1.  actions that reduce the CI of the fossil fuel throughout its lifecycle,
  2.  supplying low-carbon fuels, and
  3.  supplying fuel and energy in advanced vehicle technologies.
The Clean Fuel Regulations are based on lifecycle analysis. Therefore, the lower the CI value a low-CI fuel has on a lifecycle basis, the more credits the low-CI fuel producer or importer will obtain. Producers and importers of low-CI fuel in Canada are expected to benefit from the demand created by the Regulations. It is expected that the Clean Fuel Regulations will create demand for about 2.2 billion litres of additional low CI diesel and 700 million liters of additional ethanol by 2030 creating economic opportunities for biofuel producers and feedstock providers such as farmers and foresters.  The Canola Council of Canada and Canadian Canola Growers Association have endorsed the publication of the final Clean Fuel Regulations citing the certainty that this will provide for the biofuel supply chain and the increased value to growers and the entire industry. Examples of new investments in low CI fuels in Canada include:  
  • Braya Renewable Fuels, which recently retrofitted the refinery in Come By Chance, Newfoundland and Labrador, to produce renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel.
  • Federated Co-operatives Limited’s plans to invest $2 billion to construct a canola crushing facility and renewable diesel plant in Alberta, with production expected to start in 2027.,
  • Covenant Energy’s plans to construct a renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel production facility in Saskatchewan. 
The Clean Fuel Regulations are complemented by the Clean Fuels Fund, which will help Canadian producers respond to this demand by investing $1.5 billion to support domestic production of cleaner fuels (e.g. biofuels, biomass supply chain, hydrogen, biocrude, renewable natural gas and diesel, and cellulosic ethanol).The Clean Fuel Regulations were published in Canada Gazette, Part II, on July 6, 2022. See the Government of Canada’s website on the Clean Fuel Regulations and Regulatory Impact Analysis Statement (Canada Gazette, Part II, Volume 156, Number 14) https://www.gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p2/2022/2022-07-06/html/sor-dors140-eng.html for more details on the economic analysis of the Clean Fuel Regulations and to read the final regulations.The Government of Canada is committed to reporting back on progress toward its climate objectives. Environment and Climate Change Canada will continue to report annually to Parliament on the administration of the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act. Canada will also continue to report domestically on its climate change efforts through the Annual Synthesis Reports on the implementation of the Pan-Canadian Framework and through progress reports under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act beginning in 2023.  
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada knows that climate change presents a threat to our long-term health and economic prosperity. Even in these challenging times, addressing climate change matters. The Government values the importance of Canada’s agriculture and agri-food supply chains, and recognizes the vital importance of a resilient agriculture and agri-food sector that is able to grow sustainably.Putting a price on pollution is an important part of Canada’s future, and the government is doing this in a way that maintains affordability for households and ensures the competitiveness of Canadian companies. The purpose of the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act (GGPPA) is to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by ensuring that pollution pricing applies broadly throughout Canada.The GGPPA provides farmers with significant up-front relief of the fuel charge for gasoline and light fuel oil (diesel) used in tractors and other farm machinery. The GGPPA also provides greenhouse operators with upfront relief of 80% of the fuel charge on marketable natural gas and propane used to heat an eligible greenhouse, or to supplement carbon dioxide in an eligible greenhouse in order to grow or produce plants.Recognizing that many farmers use natural gas and propane in their operations, the government is returning a portion of fuel charge proceeds directly to farming businesses in backstop jurisdictions via a refundable tax credit, starting for the 2021-22 fuel charge year. It is estimated that farmers would receive $100 million in the first year and $122 million in the second year, with this amount expected to increase as the price on carbon pollution rises.The government recognizes the importance of the agriculture sector in Canada. To this end, the Government of Canada is always working hard with stakeholders, representatives of various sectors, and provinces to find real, practical solutions for farmers, as needed. 
Carbon pricingCarbon taxClean Fuel RegulationsConsumer priceFarming and farmers
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00026441-00026 (Consumer protection)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCDecember 2, 2021January 31, 2022April 20, 2021Petition to the Honourable House of Commons in Parliament assembledThe petition of the undersigned residents for Canada who now avail themselves of their ancient and undoubted right thus to present a grievance common to your petitioners in the certain assurance that your honourable House will therefore provide a remedy, humbly sheweth in regards to the grievance regarding the practice of advertising to children.Where as the child's brain is not yet fully developed, lacking in critical thinking capacities and is particularly susceptible / vulnerable to messaging;Where as many products geared towards children are not conducive to environmental sustainability / responsibility and create a legacy of waste thereby impacting their future;Where as advertisers are undermining parents by creating a strong culture of “want” and senseless consumerism amoung our youth, contributing to behavioural problems, addictive tendencies, and parental stress;Where as the materialistic world is exploitative and does not contribute to healthy communities or environments;Where as many families do not have the disposable income to buy everything their child wants, thereby creating a culture of have and have nots and thus more community division;Therefore, your petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray the House of Commons will protect our children, families, and communities by banning advertisement geared towards children in all forms and on all platforms with a provision for that which is indisputably for the benefit of the child such as the Children's Help Line
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the need to protect children, families and communities by banning advertisement geared toward children in all forms on all platforms.  Keeping children safe on all platforms is an utmost priority for our government.It is important to highlight the Canadian Radio television and Telecommunications Commission’s (CRTC) role in building a strong and safe broadcasting system. The CRTC regulates and supervises the Canadian broadcasting system with a view to implementing the broadcasting policy set out in subsection 3(1) of the Broadcasting Act and serving the need and interests of Canadian children. Although the CRTC does not directly regulate advertising content, it has imposed obligations in some circumstances relating to basic standards for advertising aimed at Canadians aged 12 years and younger in accordance with its broader policy mandate.  When the CRTC issues or renews the licences of local television stations, pay or specialty TV services or on-demand services, it includes standard conditions of licence. These conditions require, among other things, that broadcasters follow various industry codes, which include the Broadcast Code for Advertising to Children (The Children’s Code).What is The Children’s Code?The Children’s Code was created by the Canadian Association of Broadcasters in association with Advertising Standards Canada (now known as Ad Standards). Its purpose is to help advertisers and advertising agencies recognize the special characteristics of children as an audience group when preparing commercial messages. It is acknowledged that children—and very young children in particular—often have a hard time differentiating between real life and imaginary situations. The Children’s Coderequires that content aimed at this age group respect, and not exploit, the power of a child’s imagination, amongst other things.As an additional safeguard, the appropriateness of advertising to children is ensured through the Ad Standards’ Children’s Clearance Committee.  This Committee, which is made up of industry and public representatives, reviews and approves broadcast advertising directed at children to ensure they comply with The Children’s Code.  Under The Children’s Code, all children’s advertisements broadcast by Canadian broadcasters must be approved by the Committee and carry a valid Ad Standards approval number. Ad Standards, which administers The Children’s Code, has also established a formal complaints procedure for broadcast advertising directed at children, the details of which can be found on the Ad Standards website. Finally, Ad Standards publishes annually Ad Complaints Reports and publishes Broadcast Code For Advertising to Children Complaint Case Summaries on its website, of which there is only one dated 2014.  
ChildrenDirect-to-consumer advertising
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00575441-00575 (Health)PeterJulianNew Westminster—BurnabyNDPBCJune 14, 2022September 20, 2022June 5, 2021Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas opioid crisis is one of the most deadly public health emergencies of our lifetime, with a death taking place on average about every two hours and a death toll of almost 15,400 in the past four years alone (January 2016 to December 2019);Whereas the overdose crisis rages;We, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency and:
  • Take steps to end overdose deaths and overdose injuries
  • Immediately collaborate with provinces and territories to develop a comprehensive, pan-Canadian overdose action plan
  • Ensure that any plan considers reforms that other countries have used, such as legal regulation of drugs to ensure safe, supply, decriminalization for personal use, and changes to flawed drug policy and policing.
  • Ensure this emergency is taken seriously with adequately funded programming and supports.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Tragically, the most recent national data indicates that 29 052 apparent opioid toxicity deaths occurred between January 2016 and December 2021. Fentanyl and its analogues continue to be major drivers of the crisis with as many as 86% of accidental apparent opioid toxicity deaths in 2021 involving fentanyl.The Government of Canada also recognizes that this crisis has only become more complex due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade supply and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience, to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.With respect to the request to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency, the Emergencies Act is a federal law that can be used to respond to an urgent, temporary and critical national emergency that seriously endangers the lives, health or safety of Canadians, is of such proportions or nature that it exceeds the capacity or authority of a province to deal with it, and that cannot be dealt with effectively by any other law in Canada. The Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving opioid-related deaths and harms.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis and working with partners to save lives. At the federal level, legislation is not required to access important responses to the overdose crisis, which have included: reducing legislative and regulatory barriers; developing new prescription guidelines and marketing restrictions; launching a public awareness campaign; improving the knowledge base; supporting treatment, safe supply and harm reduction initiatives across Canada; and providing emergency funding to provinces and territories.Provinces and territories (PTs) have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. For example, PTs fund and deliver the majority of direct social and health interventions, such as naloxone distribution, and safer consumption sites, that are shown to effectively reduce opioid overdoses deaths and harms. PTs and municipalities also have the power to declare a public health emergency in response to a significant increase in overdose-related deaths, as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta declaring a public health crisis in May 2017. More recently, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency in January 2022. The declaration of a PT public health emergency allows a PT government to access and exercise extraordinary powers to address a crisis.Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach, and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. It includes four key pillars – prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and enforcement. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the Government of Canada has taken urgent action to address the overdose crisis through significant commitments of over $800 million. Recent examples in this area include:
  • over $282 million to the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) through the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, Budget 2021, and Budget 2022, in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide frontline services in a COVID-19 context, to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services;
  • $200 million, with $40 million per year ongoing, to enhance the delivery of culturally appropriate addictions treatment and prevention services in First Nations communities;
  • more than $20 million for Naloxone distribution, education and training; and,
  • $13 million over five years to launch a new national, multi-year public education campaign to help reshape Canadians’ attitudes and perceptions about people who use drugs.
In addition to these investments, in order to prevent and reduce substance-related harms, the Government of Canada has undertaken a broad range of policy, legislative and regulatory actions, such as:
  • approving exemptions to establish supervised consumption sites (since January 1, 2016, the number of supervised consumption sites operating in Canada has increased from 1 to 39), and providing provincial and territorial class exemptions to facilitate the establishment of Urgent Public Health Need Sites (commonly known as overdose prevention sites);
  • reducing barriers to providing people who use drugs with safer, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives to the toxic illegal drug supply and supporting 25 safer supply service delivery projects in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick, as well as a National Community of Practice, for a total investment of over $73.5 million (note: the number of active projects is subject to change as sites open and close);
  • providing guidance and leadership on the prescribing, dispensing, and delivery of opioids and other narcotics during the pandemic;
  • creating new regulatory pathways under the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations used to authorize medication used to treat addiction not otherwise available (e.g., approving diacetylmorphine hydrochloride as a supervised injectable opioid agonist therapy for adult patients with severe opioid use disorder and amending federal regulations to allow healthcare practitioners to provide diacetylmorphine-assisted treatment outside of a hospital setting, if permitted by their province or territory);
  • supporting the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which encourages people to seek emergency help at the scene of an overdose by providing some legal protection against simple drug possession charges;
  • introducing Bill C-5, which proposes amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act which, among other measures, would repeal mandatory minimum penalties for drug related-offences, and would require prosecutors to consider alternative measures to laying charges or prosecuting individuals for simple possession of drugs, including diversion to treatment programs; and,
  • at the request of the province of British Columbia, granting a time-limited exemption for three years under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs.
The Mandate Letter of the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health calls on the Minister to, “Advance a comprehensive strategy to address problematic substance use in Canada, supporting efforts to improve public education to reduce stigma, and supporting provinces and territories and working with Indigenous communities to provide access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction, as well as to create standards for substance use treatment programs.” The Government of Canada is continuing to work with provincial, territorial, Indigenous and municipal officials on options to address their regional needs. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Problematic Substance Use & Harms to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. We are also collaborating with provinces and territories to better understand the evolving crisis, and undertaking timely monitoring and reporting of opioid-related deaths and harms in Canada. Public health officers from the Public Health Agency of Canada have been deployed to support public health surveillance systems in provinces and territories.In addition, engagement with civil society organizations, direct care service providers, academics, people with lived and living experience, and other key stakeholders continues to inform federal actions to reduce opioid-related overdoses and deaths and improve the health and wellbeing of Canadians. For example, we continue to engage with stakeholders to inform them about safer supply and encourage them to look and work within their sphere of influence to remove barriers to this practice. Safer supply services provide a pharmaceutical alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply as a way to help prevent overdoses, improve the health of people who use drugs, and help connect people to trusted and supportive relationships in health and social services. Health Canada is supporting a number of safer supply projects through the Substance Use and Additions Program (SUAP). We have also taken action to increase access to safer supply services by:
  • helping to build the evidence base for safer supply by supporting the evaluation of pilot projects and seeking expert advice, including from health professionals and people who use drugs; 
  • making it easier to access needed medications, including issuing exemptions from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and,
  • sharing resources and guidance on treating substance use disorder for the use of healthcare practitioners.
The Government of Canada is also taking action to ensure that our enforcement response is focused on organized drug crime and the cross-border movement of illegal substances and the precursor chemicals that are used to make many of them. As Canada’s national police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detects, investigates, and disrupts the most serious and complex criminal threats to the safety and security of Canadians and Canadian interests, including transnational and serious organized crime (TSOC) and the illegal drug market. At our borders, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is working to reduce the flow of illegal opioids and related substances, precursor chemicals, and other controlled substances. Efforts to disrupt the involvement of organized crime groups in the production, trafficking, and sale of what are now increasingly toxic substances remain critical, including in support of public health measures to prevent, treat, and reduce the harms associated with the use of those substances. Recent and/or ongoing federal activities include:
  • acquisition of new infrastructure and tools required to assist in the safe examination and sampling of suspected highly toxic substances in addition to increasing intelligence, targeting, and training support;
  • investigating TSOC networks that traffic multiple commodities, within Canada and internationally, as well as online vendors and manufacturers;
  • providing an integrated policing response to drug trafficking and organized crime networks by working closely with local law enforcement agencies, as well as private industry partners, including chemical producers, retailers and distributors, to limit the chemicals used for legitimate purposes from being diverted for the illegal production of controlled substances; and,
  • maintaining strong relationships with international partners, including the United States of America, to support joint operations and investigations involving cross-border drug activity, as well as to facilitate productive policy dialogue and information exchange.
Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of illegal drugs for personal use can perpetuate stigma, increase risks of overdose and other harms, and increase barriers to care. Canada recognizes that drug use stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help ensure that stigma is not present in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides frontline law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and towards supportive and trusted relationships in health and social services. In addition to the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act in May 2017, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada issued guidance to prosecutors directing that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for personal possession offences, except when there are serious aggravating circumstances.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
Drug use and abuseHealth emergenciesOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00457441-00457 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCMay 12, 2022June 21, 2022June 8, 2021PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • The U.S. Department of State's 20th Trafficking in Persons Report indicates that Canada "meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking";
  • The TIP Report notes that Canadian governments "did not provide comprehensive data" on investigations, prosecutions, convictions, or victims' services;
  • The range, quality, and timely delivery of trafficking-specific services varies across Canada, including persistent funding shortages;
  • Coordination between the federal and provincial governments on anti-trafficking measures is poor;
  • The TIP Report urges Canadian governments to increase the use of proactive law enforcement techniques, increase training for prosecutors and judges, and increase partnerships with the private sector to prevent human trafficking.
THEREFORE: We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to strengthen the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act to address Canada's shortcomings as mentioned in the TIP Report so that Canada exceeds the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking, and that it cooperates and coordinates more closely with the provinces, the private sector, and other stakeholders to combat human trafficking in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Pam Damoff, M.P.The Government of Canada takes the issue of human trafficking seriously and is committed to the protection of children, women, girls, and other vulnerable members of society from all forms of exploitation and abuse, including sexual exploitation and labour trafficking in Canada and abroad.The protection of victims of human trafficking is a shared responsibility among all levels of government. Provinces and territories provide services such as health and social services, emergency housing, and legal aid to victims and survivors and in some cases have established their own local strategies and action plans to address human trafficking in their jurisdictions. Similarly, civil society and other non-governmental actors play a critical role in Canada’s response to this crime. The Government of Canada recognizes that human trafficking is a multifaceted issue which requires cooperation with the provinces and territories, the private sector and civil society actors.In 2019, the Government of Canada launched the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking (National Strategy), which brings together federal efforts under one strategic framework, and is supported by an investment of $57.22 million over five years and $10.28 million ongoing. The National Strategy includes measures aligned with the internationally recognized pillars of prevention, protection, prosecution and partnerships. Expanding on these pillars, the National Strategy includes empowerment as a fifth pillar to enhance supports and services to victims of human trafficking. As a whole-of-government approach, the National Strategy sets out a comprehensive way forward to address human trafficking and brings together all federal efforts that aim to address human trafficking under one strategic plan to ensure a collaborative and coordinated national response.Under the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, the Federal Government has developed an enhanced governance structure to enable a more coordinated response to human trafficking. The Human Trafficking Taskforce (HTT), comprised of all relevant federal departments, was established to ensure effective coordination, implementation and management of existing and enhanced efforts to address human trafficking in Canada and abroad. Further, the HTT serves to support the alignment of anti-human trafficking initiatives with other federal government priorities (i.e. Gender-Based Violence and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls). Public Safety Canada has also established robust mechanisms to bolster existing governance through the federal Human Trafficking Taskforce (HTT), these include an Assistant Deputy Ministers meeting, and a Director-General Steering Committee on Human Trafficking which provide oversight of the horizontal initiative.Collaboration and information sharing with federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments through the Public Safety Canada-led FPT Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Working Group remains central to the Government’s efforts. The Government of Canada also hosts a Justice Canada led-FPT Coordinating Committee of Senior Officials on Human Trafficking. These meetings facilitate information sharing and collaboration, and the sharing of best practices and lessons learned to inform policy and program development.Furthermore, under the National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to hosting stakeholder engagements to ensure ongoing outreach and information sharing and to address emerging trends. The purpose of these engagements is to bring together experts, civils society organizations, service provides and other external stakeholders to enhance knowledge and information sharing; better understand stakeholder concerns and priority issues; and, inform forward looking policy and program development. These meetings also provide Public Safety Canada and federal partners with an opportunity to strengthen key relationships and establish new ones as well as identify opportunities for new partnerships.The Government of Canada is committed to combating human trafficking and will continue to work diligently to better understand gaps in Canada’s collective response to this crime to build stronger and safer communities across Canada. 
Human traffickingProtection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00125441-00125 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 2, 2022March 21, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas, Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Whereas, tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;Whereas, in August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;Whereas, the Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post-2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi`s maternity ward in May 2020 or the targeted attacks in Behsud (Maidan Wardak province), Jibrail (Herat) and Jalalabad (Nangarhar) from January to March of 2021;Whereas, Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban;Whereas, Afghanistan remains one of the largest recipients of Canada's international financial assistance;Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide. 2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day. 3. Support Bill C-287 to ensure that all development assistance sent from Canada to Afghanistan is contributing to the peace and security of the region for all peoples.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan. Canada denounced the tragic attack on May 8, 2021, against a girls’ high school in Kabul, which claimed the lives of 85 people, mostly young Hazara girls. Attacks such as this are a visible demonstration of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, forced conversions and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and prosecution of the Hazara population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again. The determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must however be done by a competent international or national court or tribunal, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to which Canada is a party.Canada has repeatedly shared its concerns on the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances. With the Taliban’s return to power, Canada recognizes that Afghanistan is at a pivotal moment, and is closely monitoring developments on the ground. One of Canada’s foreign policy priorities is to ensure the respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that all ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.In 2021, the Government of Canada announced a total of $133 million in humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan. Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan and Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups over the past two decades. Canada is exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders and remote monitoring activities of the human rights situation by human rights bodies from outside of Afghanistan. Going forward, receiving unbiased and verified accounts of human rights atrocities will be crucial for the international community’s decision-making around its future engagement with the Taliban.On August 13, 2021, Canada announced a special humanitarian program to focus on particularly vulnerable Afghan nationals, including religious and ethnic minorities. Canada’s special immigration program has already brought thousands of Afghans, including Hazaras, to Canada, and teams across the world continue working to bring many more Afghans to safety.
AfghanistanGenocideHazarasInternational development and aid
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2022441-00299441-00299 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 29, 2022May 12, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, Following Azerbaijan's 44-day war against the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorono-Karabakh), a trilateral ceasefire agreement was signed between Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia - outside of the purview of the OSCE Minsk Group - ceasing all hostilities on the territory of the Republic of Artsakh.Whereas, while failing to address many challenges facing the region, the agreement specifically included a term relating to the return of prisoners of war and the exchange of the remains of fatalities.Whereas, despite such provisions, as many as 200 Armenian Prisoners of War (POW) illegally remain in Azerbaijani custody, without any transparent mechanisms in place to ensure their safe return.Whereas, since December 2020, Human Rights Watch has published two reports on the status of Armenian POW’s, confirming that they are being subjected to inhuman treatment, torture, humiliation, and other forms of abuse.Whereas, on February 1st, 2021, The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights released a statement, calling for the immediate release of POW’s.Whereas, on May 4, 2021, disturbing reports confirmed that close to 20 POW’s were mutilated and killed by Azerbaijani forces. This is a violation of international law by Azerbaijan, specifically as it relates to the provisions laid out in the Third Geneva Convention, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), all of which are signed by Azerbaijan.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Condemn Azerbaijan's illegal detention of Armenian POW’s and call for their immediate release;2. Use all the diplomatic tools available to advocate for the release of those held captive;3. Condemn the ongoing state-sponsored anti-Armenian hatred in Azerbaijan;4. Denounce all aggressive rhetoric from Turkey and Azerbaijan against Armenia and Artsakh;5. Provide the necessary humanitarian assistance to ensure the safety and viability of the population of Artsakh and facilitate the exchange of the remains of fatalities.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada is deeply concerned by ongoing tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and calls on all parties to continue engaging in dialogue and efforts toward a sustainable peace. Canada supports all UN Security Council Resolutions on Nagorno-Karabakh and the efforts of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. Canada supports a negotiated political solution to the conflict, as well as the continuation of dialogue between the parties towards promoting confidence-building measures. Armenia and Azerbaijan, and all external parties, must continue working together to build mutual confidence at this very sensitive time.Canada continues to monitor the situation related to the Armenian Prisoners of War (POWs) and other detainees, and is aware of the difficulties in securing their release. Canada has welcomed the release of detainees by Azerbaijan since May 2021, as well as the sharing of landmine maps by Armenia. Through both bilateral and multilateral channels, Canada continues to call for accelerating the immediate release of all detainees as a key step in the confidence-building process. The release of POWs and detainees remains one of Canada’s priorities, and Canada will continue to raise its concerns whenever the opportunity arises.Canada remains deeply concerned about the allegations of human rights violations facing Armenian POWs and detainees, and calls on the respective governments to fully abide by the simultaneous orders issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for provisional measures against both Armenia and Azerbaijan, including to take all necessary measures to prevent the incitement and promotion of racial hatred, including by officials and public institutions, and to protect persons captured by Azerbaijan during the conflict from bodily harm. Canada continues to call on respective governments to investigate human rights allegations diligently in compliance with international human rights law.The Government of Canada is working to address the post-conflict recovery and reconstruction of Nagorno-Karabakh in numerous ways. The Minister of Foreign Affairs is engaged with key partners. Canada maintains regular dialogue with the Government of Armenia and the Government of Azerbaijan, with the support of their embassies in Ottawa and Canada’s embassies to Armenia and Azerbaijan. Canada has provided an additional $1 million in humanitarian funding to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2021, in addition to the $450,000 provided in 2020 to support the ICRC’s budget extension for the region and address urgent needs that have arisen as a result of the conflict in a needs-based manner.Canada will continue to remain engaged and supportive of sustainable peace and security and will continue to assist with humanitarian efforts.
ArmeniaAzerbaijanForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workersPrisoners of war
44th Parliament229Not certifiedJanuary 7, 2022e-3607e-3607 (Business and trade)TanyaDupuisChrisLewisEssexConservativeONNovember 1, 2021, at 4:04 p.m. (EDT)December 31, 2021, at 4:04 p.m. (EDT)January 7, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="4" affiliationId="263831" mp-riding-display="1">Minister of Finance</Addressee>Whereas:The fitness industry represents over 150 000 jobs and serves over six million Canadians. Many fitness clubs have been forced to close permanently or lay off the majority of employees since the beginning of COVID-19;The fitness industry has received a disproportionate amount of negative media attention throughout the pandemic. Fitness clubs are as safe as grocery stores, medical offices, banks etc. Fitness clubs are more efficient at contact tracing as they are tracking their incoming members in their computer systems. Systems showing exactly what time they were there and who was in the building at the same time. All members arriving must sanitize and confirm they have no COVID-19 symptoms;The fitness industry is dependent on commitment based membership fees for their income rather than immediate walk in fees;The governments has announced that extension for subsidies in the tourism industry but have yet to extend for the fitness industry;The fitness industry will see a delay return in income following the lifting of the provincial restrictions and is expected to see a sustained loss of 30% following the accomplishment of herd immunity to COVID-19; andThe fitness industry will see an additional loss of 20% due to the mandate of vaccine passports.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Finance to extend the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) for one additional year for the Fitness Industry.Canada Emergency Wage SubsidyCOVID-19Fitness centresIncome and wagesPandemic44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 10, 2022441-00283441-00283 (Human diseases)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 10, 2022November 23, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that currently has no cure;
  • The expected lifespan of someone diagnosed with ALS is 2-5 years;
  • Successful clinical trials of ALS treatments and drugs have taken place in other countries;
  • ALS impacts not only the individual but also their families, friends and loved ones;
  • It took a short amount of time for COVID-19 vaccines to be approved by Health Canada; and
  • Health Canada has been slow in approving new ALS treatments.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Encourage Health Canada to swiftly review and approve AMX0035 within 3-6 months of its submission;2. Create a pilot project to reduce the delay in obtaining access to innovative Health Canada approved ALS treatments;3. Position Canada as a world leader in ALS research; and4. Allow Canadians to have access to peer country reviewed cutting edge ALS treatments, giving terminally ill patients access to these life saving drugs.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of patients having access to drugs that may help treat their serious or life-threatening conditions, including those with rare diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and is committed to supporting Canadians’ access to safe and effective health products.In Canada, the management of pharmaceuticals is a shared responsibility among the federal, provincial and territorial governments. The Federal Government is responsible for assessing the safety, efficacy and quality of drugs before authorizing them for sale in Canada, and for monitoring their safety after they enter the Canadian market. The provincial and territorial governments are responsible for the delivery of health care for their residents, including determining which drugs are reimbursed and under what conditions for their eligible populations.Once Health Canada authorizes a drug for sale in Canada, provincial and territorial drug plans then decide if the drug will be eligible for public reimbursement. To inform this decision, public drug plans use the recommendations from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) and Quebec’s Institut national d’excellence en santé et en services sociaux (INESSS).Prescription drugs and drug therapies are evolving quickly, and Canadians want access to the latest, most effective treatment options. The Priority Review of Drug Submissions Policy is available for drugs intended for the treatment, prevention or diagnosis of serious, life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses or conditions, with an accelerated review target date of 180 days instead of the usual 300 days. Additionally, the Notice of Compliance with Conditions pathway provides access to similar drugs which have promising clinical benefit; this pathway has a 200 day review target. Drug manufacturers requesting a Priority Review must demonstrate that their Drug Submission is for a serious, life-threatening or severely debilitating disease or condition for which there is substantial evidence of clinical effectiveness that the drug provides:
  • Effective treatment, prevention or diagnosis of a disease or condition for which no drug is presently marketed in Canada; or,
  • A significant increase in efficacy and/or significant decrease in risk such that the overall benefit / risk profile is improved over existing therapies, preventatives or diagnostic agents for a disease or condition that is not adequately managed by a drug marketed in Canada.
In the case of Amylyx Pharmaceuticals Inc.’s submission for AMX0035, the drug manufacturer was not able to meet these criteria; therefore, a Priority Review was not granted by Health Canada. Due to the serious nature of ALS, and despite not meeting the necessary criteria to be assigned priority review status, Health Canada has committed to reviewing the AMX0035 submission as quickly as possible, having planned for the review of this submission and allocated resources accordingly.To further accelerate access for Canadians to the therapies they require, Health Canada, along with CADTH and INESSS, have also introduced an option for sponsors to seek aligned reviews for drug submissions. Sponsors of qualifying submissions can opt in for an earlier Health Technology Assessment (HTA) review up to 180 days before Health Canada makes its regulatory decision about the drug submission. This aims to reduce time lags between the Department’s market authorization and HTA recommendations, where possible. The current AMX0035 submission is being reviewed as part of an aligned review.In some circumstances, drugs not yet approved in Canada may be accessed through Health Canada’s Special Access Programme (SAP). The SAP provides practitioners with access to non-marketed drugs in order to treat patients with serious or life-threatening conditions when conventional therapies have failed, are unsuitable or offer limited options. Health Canada has been working to reduce the burden on SAP applicants and to secure access to products as rapidly as possible.The Government of Canada has made a commitment to improve access to medications. The Regulatory Review of Drugs and Devices Initiative, which began in 2017, consists of a series of projects to support access to medicines, including working closely with our international regulatory partners to jointly review new drugs.Health Canada is now advancing a Regulatory Innovation Agenda to make its regulations for drugs and devices more agile so that they support innovation while protecting the safety of Canadians. It is building on its experience in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, where agile regulatory approaches, along with extra surge capacity and funding, were used to help enhance timely access to needed products. For example, Health Canada is modernizing its regulations for clinical trials and for market access, which will help bring more trials to Canada and further enable access to safe, new health innovations. Health Canada is also developing a Patient Involvement (PI) Strategy to ensure that patient expertise, experiences, perspectives, needs and priorities are incorporated into Health Canada’s policy and regulatory work around health products in a meaningful way. This strategy is expected to establish a systematic approach for engaging with patients on the topic of health products, including collecting input and integrating feedback in decision-making.As part of the PI Strategy, Health Canada hosted a Patient Listening Session with the ALS community on December 7, 2021, which allowed Health Canada to ask patient representatives important questions that could inform both its policy and regulatory work. The session was very meaningful and impactful for Health Canada staff, and was appreciated by the participating patient representatives. A summary report of the session will be posted on Health Canada’s website. Ideas generated during the session will be discussed and considered in future policy and regulatory work.The government recognizes the need to better understand the underlying mechanisms for ALS and investigate potential treatments. That is why, over the past five years, the Federal Government – through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) – has invested approximately $37 million in research relating to ALS. Some notable examples of this research include:
  • A $2.8M foundation grant, awarded to Dr. Jean-Pierre Julien of Université Laval to study the pathogenic pathways of ALS and to develop innovative treatment for ALS based on new therapeutic targets.
  • A $4.9M foundation grant, awarded to Dr. Guy Rouleau of McGill University to develop a drug discovery platform using ALS relevant cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells prepared from patients. His research will focus on the causative role for somatic mutations in the spinal cord to explain the cause of a significant fraction of sporadic ALS cases.
  • A $1M project grant, awarded to Dr. Honglin Luo and Dr. Neil Cashman of the University of British Columbia to study the role of enteroviral infection in ALS to identify new factors that contribute to the development of ALS and develop new treatments for ALS.
  • A $952K project grant, awarded to Dr. Jeehye Park at the Hospital for Sick Children to identify key disease-initiating events and investigate how and why these specific neuronal groups are more susceptible to degeneration. Identification of the disease-initiating events will provide important clues to the development of effective strategies for early disease prevention and therapeutic intervention for ALS.
Moreover, the Government, through CIHR, has a long history of collaborating with partners, such as the ALS Society to advance research on ALS, and will continue to support national and international initiatives that provide the evidence we need to tackle this terrible disease.Finally, Budget 2019 proposed to invest up to $1 billion over two years, starting in 2022-2023, with up to $500 million per year ongoing, to help Canadians with rare diseases access the drugs they need. We recognize that, for many Canadians who require prescription drugs to treat rare diseases, the cost of these medications can be astronomically high.To support the development of a national strategy for drugs for rare diseases, a public and stakeholder engagement process was launched in early 2021 and concluded on March 26th, 2021. A What We Heard report summarizing key themes and feedback that emerged during the public and stakeholder engagement was published in July 2021.The Government of Canada will continue working with provinces, territories and other partners to improve access of medications. 
Amyotrophic Lateral SclerosisDrug review process
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00376441-00376 (Foreign affairs)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022December 8, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:1. India is the worlds largest Democracy and hundreds of thousands of people of Indian decent now call Canada home; 2. Tens of thousands of Canadians of which many have a direct connection to farmers in India are concerned about the safety of farmers in particular from the Punjab who are protesting domestic legislative changes affecting their livelihoods; and 3. Canada will respect the legislative independence of sovereign nations, but Canada must always stand for the protection of fundamental freedoms both at home and around the world as peacefully protesting is a fundamental right in a democracy.We, the undersigned residents of the Province of Manitoba, call upon Canadian parliamentarians to stand in support of Indian farmers who choose to have peaceful protests on the issues of farming and more.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada notes that in November 2021, the Government of India withdrew the legislation that had led to protests by farmers in India, and that those protests subsequently ended in December 2021.Canada is committed to the growth and diversification of our strategic partnership with India through constructive and forward-looking bilateral dialogue.
Civil and human rightsFarming and farmersForeign policyIndiaProtests
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00046441-00046 (Environment)AlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNDPQCDecember 9, 2021January 31, 2022December 7, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for countless individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to those workers and communities that have relied upon traditional energy sources.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures:
    • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
    • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
    • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.                                       
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00096441-00096 (Environment)BenLobbHuron—BruceConservativeONDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022December 10, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for countless individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to those workers and communities that have relied upon traditional energy sources.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures:
    • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
    • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
    • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00081441-00081 (Environment)SeanCaseyCharlottetownLiberalPEDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022December 13, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for countless individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to those workers and communities that have relied upon traditional energy sources.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures:
    • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
    • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
    • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2022441-00307441-00307 (Environment)SeanCaseyCharlottetownLiberalPEMarch 29, 2022May 12, 2022December 13, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada.  Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers arelooking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 24, 2022441-00151441-00151 (Environment)SeanCaseyCharlottetownLiberalPEFebruary 8, 2022March 24, 2022December 13, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) Canada announced new measures:
  • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
  • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
  • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.         
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 7, 2022441-00406441-00406 (Environment)SeanCaseyCharlottetownLiberalPEApril 29, 2022June 7, 2022December 13, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada is also developing the Regional Energy and Resource Tables Initiative—to collaborate and advance Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.        
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00834441-00834 (Foreign affairs)FrankCaputoKamloops—Thompson—CaribooConservativeBCNovember 2, 2022January 30, 2023October 3, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Russia has declared war on Ukraine and has been indiscriminately bombing civilians and targeting Ukrainian cities with rockets since February 24th, 2022;
  • It is imperative that in this time of existential threat for Ukraine, Canada, as the home of 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent, has to help stop the war;
  • This includes strengthening sanctions on Russia, including sanctions on Nordstream 1 Turbine;
  • Granting a permit to Siemens Canada to return the sanctioned Nordstream 1 turbines to Russia via Germany and facilitating the ongoing servicing of the turbines in Canada will enable this sanctioned pipeline to continue to finance the genocide of Ukrainians; and
  • In order to stop fueling the war, the Government of Canada has to revoke the permit immediately.
We, the undersigned Citizens and Residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Immediately revoke the permit to return the sanctioned Nordstream 1 turbines to Russia via Germany;
  • 2. Enact further economic sanctions on Russia as deemed feasible and desirable.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantOn December 14, 2022, the Government of Canada announced the revocation of the sanctions waiver that was granted to Siemens Canada.The Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners are united in imposing targeted measures against President Putin and his enablers. Canada has imposed sanctions against Russia under the Special Economic Measures Act in response to the gravity of Russia’s violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and grave human rights violations that have been committed in Russia.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Canada is deeply concerned for all those affected, and horrified by the Russian Forces’ attacks on innocent civilians. Canada has also been resolute in condemning Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine and its people, and has been working in bilateral and multilateral forums, including at the UN, on options to support Ukraine and promote international peace and security. Since February 2022, Canada has committed over $5 billion in multifaceted support to Ukraine, including financial, development, humanitarian, military and peace and stabilization assistance, as well as new immigration measures for Ukrainians fleeing Russia's invasion.Canada will also continue to impose sanctions on those who support Russia’s illegal war. Since February 2022, Canada has imposed sanctions on over 1,500 individuals and entities from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. Since 2014, Canada has sanctioned over 2,100 individuals and entities. Canada also targeted Russia’s ability to access the global financial system, implemented measures to pressure the Russian economy and defence sector, and severely limited Russia’s trade with Canada, including in sectors that could support its illegal war. In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to impose sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime until President Putin stops his war. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine.
Economic sanctionsGermanyNatural gasPipeline transportationRussia
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00878441-00878 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCNovember 28, 2022January 18, 2023November 18, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Pollinators, including honeybees, are a central element of our food system and a critical pillar of our ecology;The impact of honeybees extends far beyond the pollination of commercial agricultural crops, but the monetary value of just this service is estimated to be in the hundreds of billions of dollars globally each year;In the past decade, extreme declines in bee populations have been measured across North America and throughout Europe, prompting widespread concern from citizens, scientists, and many governments;Many theories have been put forward for this collapse of the bee population, but one of the most likely is a class of pesticides called neonicotinoids, which attack insects' central nervous systems causing paralysis and death, and have proven very harmful in sub-lethal quantities; andFollowing major scientific review of the risks associated with these pesticides, the European Commission began the process of implementing a full ban on the use of neonicotinoids in 2017.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the Government of Canada to, for the sake of our bees and our food security, follow Europe's lead, and adhere to the precautionary principle by banning the use of neonicotinoids in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MPPest control products are regulated in Canada through a federal and provincial regulatory network that delivers a program of pre-market scientific assessment, enforcement, education, and information dissemination. The registration and regulation of pesticides in Canada falls under the responsibility of Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) via the authority of the Pest Control Products Act.Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) works closely with PMRA to help ensure that pesticides, when used according to directions, do not pose any unacceptable risks to humans and beneficial insects such as bees and other insect pollinators. AAFC supports the PMRA’s rigorous, science-based evaluations of pesticides.Following the August 4th, 2021 announcement to strengthen the capacity and transparency of review process for pesticides, $7 million has been invested for AAFC scientists to accelerate the research, development, and adoption of alternative pest management solutions. These funds support the Minister of Agriculture’ s 2021 Mandate Letter commitment to “support food producers who choose alternative pest management approaches that reduce the need for chemical pesticides”.Federal and provincial governments have made investments to better understand and maintain healthy bee populations, including programs that support beekeepers, research geared towards maintaining healthy bee populations, and a national surveillance project to document the health profile of honeybee colonies in Canada:
  • Through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, AAFC works with the provinces to co-fund activities that support environmental sustainability, including bee health. For example, Ontario’s Honey Bee Health Management initiative funds beekeeper operational improvements to reduce biosecurity risks, overwinter loss and the spread of pests and disease for honeybees.
  • Among other projects, AAFC scientists are currently engaged in a Large Scale Applied Genomics Research Project along with several Canadian Universities to develop a new real-time bee health assessment and diagnosis platform using stressor-specific bio-markers. Valued at almost $10 million, this project is known as “BeeCSI” and measures gene expression in bees subjected to various pests, parasites and pesticides in both laboratory and field settings, in order to detect unique and detectable signatures of stress. By discovering expression biomarkers specifically related to pesticide exposure, including those from neonicotinoid insecticides, AAFC scientists are developing tools to more rapidly detect the effects of pesticides on honey bees thereby enabling more proactive management of bee health.
  • The Beekeepers Commission of Alberta in collaboration with the Manitoba Beekeepers Association is undertaking the National Honey Bee Health Survey project and will work closely with colleagues in other provinces as the project progresses, utilizing the National Bee Diagnostic Centre for sample analysis. The goal of the National Honey Bee Health Survey is to establish a bee health database in Canada to document the prevalence, intensity and distribution of pests, pathogens and chemical residues in Canadian honeybee colonies. Phase I of the project has been completed (2014-2017), while Phase II (2019-2022) is underway. Reports are produced annually by the Government of Canada, and are available at the following link. Prior to initiation of the National Honey Bee Health Survey in Canada, surveillance of this nature had only been done at the regional level; the sector is seeking to expand co-ordination and identify issues that present challenges to bee health across the country.
In each province, a provincial beekeeper collects relevant data on beekeeping and honey production, including the population of honeybee colonies and the number of beekeepers. This data demonstrates that in 2021, the second year marked by significant COVID-19-related challenges for the agricultural sector, Canada had 13,105 beekeepers keeping a record high of 810,496 honey bee colonies, representing an increase of nine percent in the number of beekeepers and six percent in the number of colonies compared to the previous year. Colony population data indicates a 37 percent increase in honey bee colonies in Canada since 2007. Data for 2022 will be available soon.Canadian beekeepers continue to work diligently to grow their beekeeping operations while addressing external and internal factors affecting bee health and AAFC is committed to their protection.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government is committed to the health and safety of Canadians, their food supply, and the environment. Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) will continue diligently ensuring that only pest control products meeting our stringent health and environmental standards will be approved for use in Canada. Pesticides are regulated under the Pest Control Products Act (PCPA), which is administered by Health Canada, to protect Canadians and the environment from risks associated with the use of pesticides.Health Canada is aware of the importance of bees and the beekeeping industry, as well as the issues regarding bee health, including concerns over the potential effect of chronic pesticide exposure. Bee health is a complex issue that could be impacted by many potential factors including: diseases, pests, climate, diet and pesticides.Departmental scientists collaborate with scientists from universities and other organizations to determine whether specific pesticides are contributing to pollinator declines.Before a pesticide is allowed to be used or sold in Canada, it must undergo a rigorous scientific assessment process that provides reasonable certainty that no harm to human health and the environment will occur when it is used according to label directions. Depending on the type of pesticide being evaluated, results from up to 200 scientific studies (or in some cases more) may be required to determine whether the pesticide would have any negative effect on people, animals (including beneficial insects, such as pollinators like bees), or plants, including organisms in the soil and water.Health Canada must also periodically re-evaluate pesticides that are on the market to determine whether they continue to meet the Department’s current health and environmental standards and hence, whether they should continue to be permitted for use in Canada.Health Canada has conducted several post-market reviews of neonicotinoid pesticides in recent years. In 2019, Health Canada published pollinator-focused (e.g., bees) re-evaluation decisions for clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam. In order to protect pollinators, Health Canada cancelled several uses of these pesticides and added further restrictions to other uses, such as prohibiting spraying of some crops before or during bloom. It should be noted that these decisions were made following the consideration of a large variety of published independent scientific data, including those reviewed by other internationally recognized regulatory agencies (such as the European Union).On May 19, 2021, Health Canada released the final re-evaluation decision for the neonicotinoid pesticide, imidacloprid. This followed the special review decisions related to aquatic organisms for two neonicotinoid pesticides, clothianidin and thiamethoxam, released by Health Canada on March 31, 2021. Previously, Health Canada had consulted publicly on a proposal to cancel all outdoor uses of these pesticides. Over 47,000 comments were received during the consultations, as well as a substantial amount of new information, including new studies and water monitoring data. In order to protect the environment, in this final decision, Health Canada cancelled some uses of imidacloprid, and introduced additional mitigation measures and restrictions on some of the uses that remain registered, which is consistent with the Special Review decisions for clothianidin and thiamethoxam.On February 24, 2022 the Special Review Decision SRD2022-02 on the potential environmental risk related to squash bee exposure to clothianidin, thiamethoxam and imidacloprid used on cucurbits, was published. All comments received on the proposed decision were considered. Based on the comments, an additional environmental risk assessment to address potential risk to squash bees that could be exposed to persistent neonicotinoid residues from seed treatments was conducted as part of the Special Review. Ultimately, the Special Review did not result in a change to the risk conclusions described in the 2019 pollinator re-evaluation decisions of these pesticides. Risks are considered acceptable when applied according to the existing mitigation measures.The re-evaluations for clothianidin and thiamethoxam have also been initiated and will consider any new scientific data relating to potential impacts on pollinator insects (e.g., bees), that have been published since Health Canada’s 2019 pollinator-focused re-evaluation decisions.It is important to note that scientific data and information considered during these scientific evaluations may come from a variety of sources, such as federal and provincial governments, academia and the research community, registrants, other internationally recognized regulatory agencies, as well as a large body of published, independent scientific studies. When the science-based assessment indicates that potential risk to human health or the environment is not acceptable when risk management measures are applied, Health Canada will cancel either specific uses or all uses of a pesticide, depending on the assessment. When all uses of a pesticide are cancelled, the pesticide is phased-out from the Canadian market.To help ensure agricultural practices across the country protect pollinators, Health Canada actively works with key stakeholders and federal and provincial agriculture and environment ministries. These collaborations help address data gaps and refine risk assessments. Health Canada also cooperates internationally through the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the International Commission for Plant-Pollinator Relationships (ICPPR) Bee Protection Working Group to develop test guidelines and guidance documents.Health Canada continues to monitor for new information related to neonicotinoid pesticides, including regulatory action taken by other governments, and will take appropriate action if there are reasonable grounds to believe that use of the products is resulting in risks of concern to the environment.
BeesNeonicotinoids
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00940441-00940 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 8, 2022January 30, 2023November 21, 2022Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas: Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;In August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;The Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi's maternity ward in May 2020 or the relentless attacks on Hazara educational centers targeting young women and future generations of Hazaras such as in September 2022, April 2022 and May 2021;Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban; andAfghanistan has again been controlled by the Taliban since August 2021 and Hazaras continue to be persecuted under this new regime.Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide; and2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu communities in Afghanistan. The Minister of Foreign Affairs publicly denounced the tragic attack of April 19, 2022, against Hazara students in Kabul. Canada was also deeply troubled by the attack of September 30, 2022, at the Kaaj education center in Kabul. Attacks such as this are reprehensible, and serve as a grave reminder of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities, in particular the Hazara, Sikh and Hinds communities, face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and persecution of the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again.Canada has repeatedly expressed deep concern about the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances.Canada has also consistently called on the de facto Taliban authorities to respect Afghanistan’s international commitments, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.So far, in 2022, Canada has allocated over $143 million in humanitarian assistance to respond to the needs of vulnerable populations in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries. Canada is supporting a multi-sectoral humanitarian response across Afghanistan, including a particular emphasis on the provision of life-saving food and nutrition assistance. For example, with Canadian support, humanitarian partners provided food and livelihoods support to 21.7 million people in need and acute malnutrition support to 5.2 million children and pregnant and lactating women between January and September 2022.Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu, in every sphere of the Afghan society, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan. Over the last two decades, Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups. Canada was vocal in championing a strong human rights mandate for the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) during UNAMA’s last mandate renewal, and welcomed the appointment of Richard Bennett as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Afghanistan on April 1, 2022. Canada is also exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders. Through engagement with like-minded countries, international organizations, and civil society organizations, the Government of Canada has been able to access unbiased and verified accounts of human rights abuses in Afghanistan. Such information is essential to inform the international community’s analysis, advocacy and engagement with the Taliban, and to lay the groundwork for accountability for perpetrators of human rights abuses.Canada has committed to resettling at least 40,000 vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada, one of the largest commitments in the world, through special immigration programs. This includes a humanitarian immigration program which focuses on vulnerable Afghans, including women leaders, LGBTQ people, human rights defenders, journalists, and those who have helped Canadian journalists, members of religious and ethnic minorities, and family members of former Afghan interpreters. Thanks to these efforts, Canada has already welcomed more than 27,000 Afghans, including Hazaras and Afghan Sikh and Hindu to Canada.
AfghanistanGenocideHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01512441-01512 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 5, 2023July 19, 2023November 29, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00928441-00928 (Justice)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKDecember 6, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00921441-00921 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00942441-00942 (Foreign affairs)HeatherMcPhersonEdmonton StrathconaNDPABDecember 8, 2022January 30, 2023November 29, 2022Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas: Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;In August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;The Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi's maternity ward in May 2020 or the relentless attacks on Hazara educational centers targeting young women and future generations of Hazaras such as in September 2022, April 2022 and May 2021;Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban; andAfghanistan has again been controlled by the Taliban since August 2021 and Hazaras continue to be persecuted under this new regime.Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide; and2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu communities in Afghanistan. The Minister of Foreign Affairs publicly denounced the tragic attack of April 19, 2022, against Hazara students in Kabul. Canada was also deeply troubled by the attack of September 30, 2022, at the Kaaj education center in Kabul. Attacks such as this are reprehensible, and serve as a grave reminder of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities, in particular the Hazara, Sikh and Hinds communities, face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and persecution of the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again.Canada has repeatedly expressed deep concern about the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances.Canada has also consistently called on the de facto Taliban authorities to respect Afghanistan’s international commitments, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.So far, in 2022, Canada has allocated over $143 million in humanitarian assistance to respond to the needs of vulnerable populations in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries. Canada is supporting a multi-sectoral humanitarian response across Afghanistan, including a particular emphasis on the provision of life-saving food and nutrition assistance. For example, with Canadian support, humanitarian partners provided food and livelihoods support to 21.7 million people in need and acute malnutrition support to 5.2 million children and pregnant and lactating women between January and September 2022.Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu, in every sphere of the Afghan society, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan. Over the last two decades, Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups. Canada was vocal in championing a strong human rights mandate for the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) during UNAMA’s last mandate renewal, and welcomed the appointment of Richard Bennett as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Afghanistan on April 1, 2022. Canada is also exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders. Through engagement with like-minded countries, international organizations, and civil society organizations, the Government of Canada has been able to access unbiased and verified accounts of human rights abuses in Afghanistan. Such information is essential to inform the international community’s analysis, advocacy and engagement with the Taliban, and to lay the groundwork for accountability for perpetrators of human rights abuses.Canada has committed to resettling at least 40,000 vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada, one of the largest commitments in the world, through special immigration programs. This includes a humanitarian immigration program which focuses on vulnerable Afghans, including women leaders, LGBTQ people, human rights defenders, journalists, and those who have helped Canadian journalists, members of religious and ethnic minorities, and family members of former Afghan interpreters. Thanks to these efforts, Canada has already welcomed more than 27,000 Afghans, including Hazaras and Afghan Sikh and Hindu to Canada.
AfghanistanGenocideHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2023441-01315441-01315 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABApril 19, 2023June 2, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00929441-00929 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00955441-00955 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 13, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01086441-01086 (Justice)BlaineCalkinsRed Deer—LacombeConservativeABJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01084441-01084 (Justice)JohnWilliamsonNew Brunswick SouthwestConservativeNBJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00926441-00926 (Justice)DaneLloydSturgeon River—ParklandConservativeABDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2023441-01312441-01312 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 19, 2023June 2, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 4, 2023441-01781441-01781 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 19, 2023December 4, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01670441-01670 (Justice)ArpanKhannaOxfordConservativeONSeptember 26, 2023November 9, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01627441-01627 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01479441-01479 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMay 29, 2023July 19, 2023December 12, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01951441-01951 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 22, 2023January 29, 2024December 12, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2023441-01455441-01455 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 15, 2023June 20, 2023December 12, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01558441-01558 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 14, 2023July 19, 2023December 12, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01646441-01646 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 21, 2023November 3, 2023December 20, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 24, 2023441-01178441-01178 (Health)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCMarch 9, 2023April 24, 2023January 25, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • Access to and the quality of healthcare services and facilities in British Columbia and across Canada have been in not only rapid but continuous decline for decades with no end in sight;
  • Patients are receiving rushed and/or subpar care due to the lack of facilities, doctors, specialists, funding, and real solutions that work to solve our healthcare crisis of overcrowded, understaffed and antiquated facilities; and
  • Premiers from across Canada have repeatedly asked the federal government to immediately increase the Canada Health Transfer and show some accountability for their blatant disregard to healthcare.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately increase the Canada Health Transfer so that provinces may address key failures in our healthcare systems.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenBetter health care for Canadians means supporting our healthcare workers and ensuring patients receive timely access to health services they deserve. Canada’s universal, accessible and publicly funded healthcare is a point of pride for Canadians. However, health workers across Canada are under enormous strain to deliver the care that Canadian patients deserve. Immediate, collaborative, action is needed to deliver better health care for Canadians. On February 7th, our government met with the provincial and territorial Premiers to discuss shared health priorities and the importance of ensuring access to health care is based on need and not ability to pay. Discussions included an investment of $198.6B over 10 years, including an immediate unconditional Canada Health Transfer (CHT) top-up as well as targeted investments and a boost to ongoing CHT funding.Budget 2023 reconfirms our government’s commitment to provide $198.6 billion over ten years in health transfers to provinces and territories, including $46.2 billion in new funding. The funding includes:
  • $2 billion in 2022-23 to address urgent pressures in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and pediatric hospitals, building on $6.5 billion in top-ups provided throughout the pandemic.
  • top-up payments to achieve Canada Health Transfer (CHT) increases of at least five per cent per year for the next five years. The last top-up payment will be rolled into the CHT base at the end of the five-year period, resulting in a permanent funding increase. This represents an estimated $17.1 billion over ten years in additional funding, over and above its regular projected growth of $141.8 billion to be provided over the next ten years, over and above the $45.2 billion provided last fiscal year (2022-23).  Since its creation in 2004-05, the CHT has now roughly tripled in size and is projected to grow by 33% over the next 5 years, and 61% over the next 10 years.
  •  $25 billion over 10 years to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements.
  • $1.7 billion over 5 years to increase wages for personal support workers and related professions, and $350 million over 10 years for the Territorial Health Investment Fund.
Previously, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government provided provinces and territories (PTs) with $6.5 billion in top-ups to the CHT to help them address health system pressures, particularly the backlog of surgeries, medical procedures, and diagnostics. This is in addition to other significant pandemic-related health system investments, such as those provided to PTs through the $19 billion Safe Restart Agreement, $1 billion to support the vaccine roll-out, as well as $150 million for the rapid deployment of virtual care services. Overall, 8 out of every 10 dollars invested to support Canadians in the fight of COVID-19 came from the federal government.Our government continues to collaborate with PTs on shared priorities, supported by targeted federal investments of $11 billion over 10 years (starting from 2017-18, with $4.8 billion remaining) to improve access to home and community care, and mental health and addiction services. Through this work, our government will continue to work closely with provinces and territories to improve health care and health outcomes for all Canadians, including Indigenous communities, children, equity-seeking communities, older adults, and those in rural and remote communities. Better quality of care means helping Canadians live longer, healthier lives.
Canada Health TransferHealth care system
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01667441-01667 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 26, 2023November 9, 2023February 2, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01742441-01742 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 5, 2023November 20, 2023January 30, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02034441-02034 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024February 2, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02133441-02133 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024February 2, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2023441-01227441-01227 (Business and trade)StephanieKusieCalgary MidnaporeConservativeABMarch 29, 2023May 12, 2023January 25, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights as well as labour and environmental standards. The Minister of Labour, with support from the Ministers of Public Safety, Public Services and Procurement, as well as International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, remains committed to introducing legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains, while also ensuring that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses.In March 2022, the Government of Canada published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains: What We Heard Report, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and to share feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals, and the Government continues to consider the results of consultations.Members of Parliament unanimously voted to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act, studied by Committee.Bill S-211 has sparked important dialogue and helped advance the issue of forced labour in supply chains. However, some stakeholders expressed concern that the bill does not go far enough to address the issue of forced labour in supply chains, and others noted some operational considerations, including time needed to prepare for implementation. Irrespective of the outcome of the parliamentary process regarding Bill S-211, the Government of Canada committed, as part of the 2023 federal budget, to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and to strengthen the import ban on goods produced using forced labour by 2024. This is an important but complex issue, and we will continue to work together with stakeholders and international partners to make sure we get it right.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government of Canada also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business conduct abroad. For example, Canada is part of a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights and works to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Trade sanctions or financial penalties can also be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government of Canada introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. It is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. Within the National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to promoting ethical corporate practices by encouraging industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their subcontractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that they can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.At the September 2022 G7 Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, G7 partners committed to strengthen cooperation and collective efforts towards eradicating the use of all forms of forced labour and child labour in global supply chains. This commitment includes measures that promote corporate due diligence, as well as working to further enhance predictability and certainty for businesses.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in all their activities abroad, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines, such as the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy. To this end, Global Affairs Canada released its RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad – no matter their size, sector, or scope – to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains and to help them mitigate risks. The Strategy strengthens Canada’s balanced approach to RBC, which includes preventative measures, legislation in select areas, and access to dispute resolution.In terms of access to dispute resolution, the Government of Canada supports Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). The NCP is mandated to offer facilitated dialogue and mediation to all sectors on issues covered by the OECD Guidelines, including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery. The NCP can address complaints directed at the activities of multinational enterprises in Canada and the operations of Canadian multinational enterprises operating abroad. The CORE can review complaints of alleged human rights abuses by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil and gas, and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies will participate in good faith in these dispute resolution processes. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of or follow-up to a review process, both the NCP and the CORE can recommend the withdrawal of Trade Commissioner Service support and that Export Development Canada, and the Canadian Commercial Corporation also withdraw future support. The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. The two mechanisms can offer effective and accessible alternatives to judicial processes, although they do not preclude a party from addressing the issues in other fora. The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation.
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01107441-01107 (Justice)TracyGrayKelowna—Lake CountryConservativeBCFebruary 3, 2023March 20, 2023February 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The Government of Canada's amendments to C-21 tabled in committee on November 22, 2022, negatively affect law-abiding gun owners;
  • The amendments of C-21 drastically change the original focus of the bill;
  • In the amendment of C-21 the definition "prohibited firearm" was not in the Charter Statement and was not debated in the House of Commons;
  • Public Safety Canada stated that the Hill & Knowlton consultant summary "Reducing Violence: A Dialogue of Handguns and Assault Weapons" was their primary source of Information to justify the Order in Council 2020-0298 and Bill C-21. As noted in the report key findings, the majority of stakeholders who were invited by Public Safety Canada for written responses opposed a potential ban of firearms of legal gun owners;
  • The amendment of November 22, 2022, "evergreen definition" of a prohibited firearm is an overreach. Semi-automatic firearms are non-restrictive. Fully automatic firearm and magazines capacity of more than five have been prohibited in Canada since the 1970's;
  • The amendment to C-21 greatly infringes on the treaty rights of First Nations legal gun owners; and
  • The prohibited firearm definition is an item currently contained with in Federal Court Case concerning the Order in Council of May 2020. The amendment could directly affect the outcome of this Federal Court Case.
THEREFORE, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Stop targeting law abiding hunters, sports shooters and farmers with gun legislation; 2. Immediately withdraw the amendments tabled on November 22, 2022, at the Standing Commitee of Public Safety and National Security; and3. Withdraw the existing Bill C-21 and restart consultations on the with firearms owners and public safety experts.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.As part of a comprehensive approach to address firearms violence and control, the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns.On February 3, 2023, the Government withdrew these amendments to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we are committed to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 17, 2023441-01160441-01160 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABFebruary 17, 2023April 17, 2023February 6, 2023Petition to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipWhereas:
  • The application backlog since 2015 has grown to over 2.2 million applications;
  • Work permit applications submitted under International Experience Canada have a service standard of 56 days, but only 24% met this standard;
  • Skilled Trades Programs applications via Express Entry have an 80% goal of reaching the service standard of 180 days, but only 8% met this standard;
  • New visitor visa applications have an 80% goal of reaching the service standard of 14 days, but only 27% met this standard;
  • New parent and grandparent Super Visa applications have an 80% goal of meeting the service standard of 112 days, but only 41% met this standard;
  • Certificate of identity applications have a 90% goal of meeting the service standard of 20 days, but only 15% met this standard;
  • Refugee travel document applications have a 90% goal of meeting the standard of 20 days, but only 15% met this standard; and
  • An updated immigration system, where reuniting families, allowing Canadian charities to have a more responsible role in bringing persecuted refugees to Canada, and addressing the nation's workforce needs through employer driven processes, is needed.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to update the immigration system to pave the way for efficient and streamlined processes that address Canada's ongoing needs.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.With unprecedented interest in Canada from people looking for a new place to work, study and build their lives with their families, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to receive high volume of applications across all our programs. We’ve had a record-breaking year in 2022, rendering more than 5.2 million final decisions for permanent residence, temporary residence and citizenship applications and nearly doubling the number of final decisions produced in 2021 (2.7 million).Nevertheless, the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and successive international humanitarian crises have led to increased processing times for many applicants, including long waits for application updates. We understand how difficult and frustrating this can be for our clients, sponsors, and representatives, and we are committed to improving the client experience.Over the past year, the Department has taken steady action to reduce application backlogs and help build a more modern, client-focused immigration system. We hired more than 1,250 employees1, introduced 100% online intake for key permanent residence lines of business2, digitized applications, and harnessed automation technologies to increase processing efficiency while protecting the safety and security of Canadians. In support of client service, the Department recently rolled-out client application status trackers for Express Entry applicants, in addition to those already in place for Family Class and Citizenship. This online service allows clients to securely view the status of their application. We have also made improvements to our client support centre, including hiring additional staff, and automating the triage of email correspondence.In 2023 and beyond, we will continue to implement various initiatives supporting our nation’s commitments to: reunite families, allow refugees and their families to find safe and permanent resettlement pathways, and address the needs of the rapidly changing Canadian labour market. Some planned initiatives include:
  • A policy review of Canada’s immigration system to better respond to the needs of a 21st century, as announced in Budget 2022.
  • A commitment of $50 million in funding for 2022–2023, a portion of which will be dedicated to address ongoing application backlogs, speed up processing and allow skilled newcomers to fill critical labour gaps faster.
  • Examination of broader regularization pathways for undocumented migrants and their families. Pathways to permanent residence will offer more opportunities for individuals to enter or stay in the job market and fill labour shortages. 
  • Reforms to Express Entry system which allow the Minister more flexibility to invite Express Entry candidates that meet Canada’s labour market needs.
  • Digital Platform Modernization to replace the Department’s aging IT platform, while redesigning business processes and advancing policy simplification, enabling us to improve the client experience and respond quickly to changing conditions and new priorities.
  • A commitment of  $6.2 million over three years (2022-2023 to 2024-2025) to Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) NGO partners that will increase their capacity to help refugees, and people in refugee-like situations, access economic immigration programs (e.g. client identification and referral).
As this work progresses, the Department will continue to engage key program stakeholders and update Canadians on its backlog and processing time reduction efforts, publishing monthly data on our website.1 Hired between spring and fall 2022 to help reduce inventories, with additional hires planned for 2023.2 Alternative formats remain available for all who request that option.
Government servicesImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02041441-02041 (Health)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJanuary 31, 2024March 18, 2024February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The overdose crisis in Canada is a public health emergency, as has already been declared by British Columbia's Provincial Health Officer and several municipalities across Canada;
  • More than 13,900 individuals have died of opioid-related deaths and there have been 17,050 opioid-related poisoning hospitalizations in Canada since 2016;
  • There is disproportionate representation of Indigenous people affected by the overdose crisis; and
  • The Canadian Public Health Association, the Global Commission on Drug Policy, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations, have recommended drug decriminalization.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Declare a public health emergency due to overdose deaths in Canada;
  • Reframe the overdose crisis in Canada as a health issue rather than a criminal issue;
  • Take a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to the overdose crisis, by addressing issues of addiction, poverty, housing, health care, racial discrimination, and economic inequality and instability;
  • Listen to and act on recommendations made by social workers, front-line workers, nurses, doctors, drug users, and individuals directly involved in the drug-using community; and
  • Decriminalize drugs in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. While there are a number of complex factors that contribute to the high rates of overdose that we are seeing today, a major driver is the increasingly toxic and unpredictable illegal drug supply, where fentanyl remains widespread and we have observed the rise or emergence of other substances, including stronger opioids, stimulants, and sedatives. In 2022, approximately four out of every five opioid-related overdose death involved fentanyl. The cost of substance use-related harms is not limited to the loss of lives alone and, more broadly, impacts health, social well-being, and public safety.The Government of Canada takes this crisis very seriously and is committed to working together with all levels of government, Indigenous Peoples and communities, partners from law enforcement, criminal justice, health and social systems, and people with lived and living experience and other key stakeholders, to take urgent action and leverage every available tool to save lives and work towards an end to this national public health crisis.Provinces and territories have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. This includes the power to declare a public health emergency which allows a provincial or territorial government to access and exercise extraordinary measures in response to a significant increase in opioid-related deaths as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta in May 2017. More recently, in January 2022, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency. In addition to provincial and territorial emergency declarations, some municipalities and Indigenous communities have also declared emergencies in response to rising substance use-related harms and deaths.Invoking the federal Emergencies Act is intended to serve as a tool of last resort to ensure the safety and security of Canadians in cases of temporary, critical national emergencies that cannot be addressed with existing federal, provincial or territorial laws. As such, the Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving substance use-related deaths and harms.The Government of Canada has publicly recognized the overdose crisis is a public health crisis. The federal government is committed to continued action using the broad range of tools at its disposal and to take steps to end overdose deaths and substance-use related harms. The Government’s approach to addressing the overdose crisis and substance use-related harms is comprehensive, equitable, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our renewed federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The renewed CDSS outlines the Government of Canada’s updated plan to address the overdose crisis, and other substance use-related harms in Canada.Through the renewed CDSS, the Government is taking a holistic approach to addressing substance use and related harms, centered on promoting public health and protecting public safety. This whole-of-government initiative includes timely access to a full range of strategies to help people access the prevention, harm reduction, treatment, or recovery services and supports they need, when and where they need them.The renewed CDSS uses an integrated approach that brings together prevention and education, substance use services and supports, evidence, and substance controls. New investments include supporting a wide range of activities, such as: community-based supports; streamlining authorizations for supervised consumption sites (SCS) and drug checking services; vital data collection on substance-related harms and lab-based analysis of the illegal drug supply; an overdose monitoring platform for law enforcement and other first responders; and further action with our partners to disrupt illegal drug production and trafficking and stem the global flow of these devastating substances. By using a wide-range of tools, we have the best opportunity to end this crisis, protect communities and save lives.Since 2017, the federal government has made commitments of more than $1 billion and has taken significant action to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. This includes a Budget 2023 commitment of $359.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $5.7 million ongoing, to support the renewed CDSS, which will continue to guide the government’s work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians by:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
These investments have made a difference in reducing overdose deaths and harms. For example, since 2017 through the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP), Health Canada has provided over $565 million to support nearly 390 community-based projects focused on innovative treatment, harm reduction, prevention and stigma reduction activities. More than $26 million of this funding was dedicated to expanding Naloxone awareness, training and distribution across Canada. As of May 2023, these projects contributed to more than 1.5M Canadians being trained on how to respond to an overdose, and more than 69,000 nasal naloxone kits being distributed across the country.We also invested $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction. In addition, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches to build the evidence around innovative care practices, including services that prescribe pharmaceutical-grade medications as an alternative to the highly toxic illegal drug supply for people at high risk of overdose – a practice often referred to as safer supply or prescribed alternatives. As of February 2024, Health Canada has supported 31 prescribed alternatives pilot projects across Canada through SUAP, representing total funding commitments of over $102 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, as well as research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.These investments have also improved access to treatment. For example, provinces and territories have used federal investments provided through Budget 2018 for the Emergency Treatment Fund to expand existing treatment approaches, such as services to support youth with substance use disorder, withdrawal management services appropriate for people who use methamphetamine, Rapid Access Addictions Medicine clinics, access to opioid dependence treatments, and culturally-appropriate care for Indigenous communities. Funds have also been used to implement innovative approaches to treatment, including ‘wrap-around’ care and the development of telehealth infrastructure to connect clients in remote and rural settings.In addition to these investments, the Government of Canada has supported the expansion of supervised consumption services across Canada and also issued exemptions that allow provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites (UPHNS)  within existing shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. There are currently 47 SCS offering services in Canada. From October 2017 to September 2023, they have received over 4.4 million visits, responded to over 52,000 overdoses, and made over 411,000 referrals to health and social services. Nobody has died of an overdose in these 47 sites.Federal funds are enabling new drug checking technologies to be used at SCS and other associated services to provide people who use drugs and health workers with information on the contents of toxic street drugs, including whether they contain deadly fentanyl, benzodiazepines or other toxic substances. This gives people who use drugs the opportunity to make informed decisions that may reduce their risk of overdose. As of February 2024, of the 39  federally authorized SCS, 30 are authorized to conduct drug checking in Canada. In addition, there are 10 federally authorized stand-alone drug checking services. In addition, the Government of Canada held a Drug Checking Technology Challenge (October 2018 to July 2021), that provided a total of $1,724,500 million to nine participants to catalyze innovation in drug checking technologies. Through the renewed CDSS, we will streamline authorizations for SCS, UPHNS and drug checking services with clear public health and public safety requirements for organizations seeking to provide these evidence-based life saving services to Canadians.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder, as well as facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and,
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
We will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to respond to this crisis and to keep communities safe. The government works closely with domestic and international partners to address the toxic illegal drug supply that is driving overdose harms and deaths. We continue to equip border agents with the tools necessary to intercept controlled substances. For example, we have made it harder to access chemicals used to make fentanyl by scheduling them under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and have also amended legislation to allow border officers to open mail of any weight, in order to stop drugs like fentanyl and carfentanil from entering Canada illegally through the mail system. The government also works with private sector partners to address money laundering of the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking in an effort to dismantle the organized crime groups involved in the supply of these toxic illegal drugs.The Government of Canada continues to lead efforts to facilitate opportunities for collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, community-based organizations, and other partners and stakeholders, to reduce the harms associated with substance use and support efforts to provide a full range of culturally appropriate, evidence-based, and trauma-informed health and social services and supports to meet the diverse needs of people who use drugs.The Government of Canada is also working closely with provinces and territories to change the way the healthcare system delivers mental health and substance use services to Canadians. On February 7, 2023, the Government of Canada announced it will increase health funding to provinces and territories by nearly $200 billion over 10 years, in order to improve Canada’s health care system. This investment includes $25 billion for shared health priorities, including increasing access to mental health and substance use services and supports. These commitments are in addition to existing bilateral agreements with provinces and territories for health priorities, including mental health and substance use, that were put in place in 2017. These investments will set the foundation for long-term, integrated and sustained health care system change that builds on existing, targeted actions to address mental health and substance use challenges.We have also established federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the FPT Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the FPT Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use, to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. In addition, discussions are held with provinces and territories at the Deputy Minister and Ministerial level through meetings of the Conference of Deputy Ministers of Health and the Federal, Provincial, Territorial Health Minister’s Meetings.To inform the federal approach, the government also regularly consults with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. Health Canada established the People with Lived and Living Experience Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We recognize that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments so that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.With respect to prescribed alternatives, a number of researchers in academic institutions across Canada are studying this emerging approach, contributing to the evidence base that can inform decision-making at local, provincial and federal levels. Prescribed alternatives builds on the evidence from medication-assisted approaches to the treatment of substance use disorder, with prescribed alternatives services having a number of unique goals and approaches that need to be assessed and evaluated on their own merits.The evidence base around prescribed alternatives is still developing, but is growing. Existing studies and evaluations of prescribed alternatives programs are showing some promising early outcomes, including:
  • reduced overdose-related mortality, emergency department visits and hospitalizations; and,
  • client reports of reductions in overdoses and illegal drug use, reduced engagement in criminalized activities, access to health and social services, improved trust in primary care providers among clients who face barriers to care, and other quality of life improvements.
Health Canada is supporting several studies of prescribed alternatives. This includes a preliminary assessment of prescribed alternatives pilot projects in Ontario, British Columbia and New Brunswick. The federal government, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), is also supporting a study being conducted by a research team from the Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse. This four-year evaluation research project focuses on program implementation and the short-term health outcomes of 11 of the government funded prescribed alternatives pilot projects. The final results of this study are expected in 2025. Additionally, CIHR has awarded $2 million to the University of Victoria to support a four-year study evaluating the prescribed alternatives initiatives in British Columbia, in partnership with Indigenous leaders, Elders and system partners. We will continue to monitor outcomes of prescribed alternatives, so that the government’s response to the overdose crisis is evidence-based and focused on saving lives.The government is committed to working to divert people who use drugs away from the criminal justice system and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from personal drug possession charges as well as from breach of some conditions related to personal possession, for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose. Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the CDSA. Among other measures, the amendments require police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the CDSA to reflect the Government’s public-health focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, directing prosecutors to consider alternatives to prosecution for the personal possession of drugs, except in the most serious cases where public safety concerns arise.In addition, in May 2022, at the request of the province of British Columbia, a time-limited exemption was granted under the CDSA so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province are not subject to criminal charges for the personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, individuals can be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they can also receive assistance to connect with those services. This exemption, which is in effect from January 31, 2023, to January 31, 2026, is part of a much broader strategy British Columbia and this Government are taking to help people who use drugs access supports and services, rather than face criminal charges. This time-limited exemption is being supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes and inform implementation.Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The items above are some examples of concrete actions taken by the federal government to address the overdose crisis. Please visit the following website for a comprehensive list of all the actions taken to date.The Government of Canada will continue working with our partners and stakeholders to implement the renewed CDSS and will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and advancing work on the development of standards for mental health and substance use health services. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 21, 2024441-02252441-02252 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 21, 2024February 10, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Hunting and firearm ownership play an integral role in Canadian history and culture;
  • Many new Canadians love to participate in this heritage of hunting;
  • With amendments to Bill C-21, the Liberals are seeking to ban many different hunting rifles and shotguns;
  • Weatherby bolt action rifles are being banned; and
  • With their legislation, the Liberals are betraying hunters.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:
  • 1) Leave our guns alone;
  • 2) Vote against Bill C-21; and
  • 3) Defend and safeguard the property rights of Canadian hunters.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms permitsHunters
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01266441-01266 (Justice)RandyHobackPrince AlbertConservativeSKMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023March 16, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA:Whereas: There are serious concerns regarding the federal government's medical assistance in dying (MAID) legislation;The heads of Psychiatry of all of Canada's 17 medical schools have called for a delay to this legislation; andThe federal government has failed to live up to its promise to fund a Canada Mental Health Transfer, leaving Canadians struggling with mental illness behind.Therefore: We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to delay its expansion of medial assistance in dying (MAID).
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam Van KoeverdenMedical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal issue. The Government of Canada recognizes and respects the diverse views on whether MAID should be permitted for persons suffering solely from a mental illness. The safety and security of the most vulnerable Canadians remains at the forefront of our actions as we take a careful and considered approach on the implementation of MAID for persons living with a mental disorder.On March 9, 2023, through the passing of Bill C-39, the Government extended the temporary exclusion of eligibility for MAID for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness until March 17, 2024. This extension will allow more time for:
  • Consideration of any recommendations arising from the Special Joint Committee on MAID’s final report, tabled in February 2023, alongside the recommendations of the Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness; and,
  • Dissemination and uptake of key resources, such as the Model MAID Practice Standard (released March 27, 2023) and a nationally accredited MAID curriculum, by the medical, nursing, and health provider communities.
We believe that a one-year extension, until March 17, 2024, will provide sufficient time to ensure health system readiness, to disseminate and promote uptake of key resources by the medical and nursing communities, and to fully consider the recommendations in the Special Joint Committee on MAID’s final report. It is imperative that MAID assessors and providers be ready to assess requests for MAID for persons suffering solely from a mental illness in a safe and consistent manner across Canada by the time the extension is over.Health Canada, provinces and territories, and other stakeholders have already made significant progress to prepare for eligibility for MAID for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness.On March 27, 2023, a Task Group of experts convened by Health Canada (chaired by Dr. Mona Gupta, former Chair of the Expert Panel) released a Model Practice Standard for MAID. The Practice Standard will help clinicians align their practice with clear guidance and will assist regulators to ensure the protection of the public in the context of more complex cases. Ultimately, this will help ensure MAID practice in Canada operates in a consistent and safe manner across the country.In addition, the Canadian Association of MAID Assessors and Providers is developing and implementing an accredited Canadian MAID curriculum to support clinician education and training, and to address various topics related to the assessment and provision of MAID, including mental disorders and other complex chronic conditions. The curriculum will consist of seven modules. A rolling launch of modules will begin in the late summer of 2023, including a module on MAID and Mental Disorders, with the aim for all modules to be available by the end of 2023.The Model MAID Practice Standard and its supporting documents, along with the MAID training curriculum, will provide valuable resources for regulators and practitioners in interpreting and applying the legislative framework safely in different clinical situations.Supporting the mental health and well-being of Canadians is a priority for the Government of Canada.Through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, older adults, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Black and other racialized Canadians. The Government is also providing $50 million to support projects that address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma in health care workers, front-line and other essential workers and others affected by the pandemic.Health Canada invested $130 million from 2020-22 in Wellness Together Canada, an online mental health and substance use support portal, and received $140 million in Budget 2022 to support the portal for two more years beginning in 2022-23. Launched in April 2020, Wellness Together Canada provides free and confidential online mental health and substance use supports accessible 24/7 to individuals across Canada in both official languages.Through the Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is investing $4.9 million annually in community based mental health promotion projects that focus on reducing systemic barriers. The MHP-IF encourages mental health and well-being during the early years of life by promoting protective factors and addressing the underlying determinants of mental health and health equity for children, youth, young adults, and their caregivers.Budget 2023 confirmed the Government’s commitment to invest close to $200 billion over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to improve health care for Canadians, including $25 billion to Provinces and Territories (PTs) via tailored bilateral agreements which will focus on four key priorities, including improving access to mental health and substance use services and the integration of these services in community family health services.   This investment will build on the Budget 2017 investments, which include $2.4 billion from 2023-24 to 2026-27 still available to PTs for mental health and addictions services.Budget 2023 committed $158.4 million over three years to support the implementation and operation of 988. The introduction of 988 will provide people across Canada with easy-to-remember access to immediate and safe support for suicide prevention and emotional distress. The creation of the 988 service in Canada builds on existing investments received through Budget 2019 for the Pan-Canadian Suicide Prevention Service, where PHAC received $25 million over five years, with $4.2 million per year ongoing. With this funding, the Centre for Addition and Mental Health (CAMH) currently operates Talk Suicide Canada. Talk Suicide Canada provides people across Canada with suicide prevention crisis support from trained responders via phone (24/7) at 1-833-456-4566 and text (evenings) to 45645. Residents of Québec can also call 1-866-277-3553, text 535353 or visit suicide.ca for support by text and online chat.Mental health remains a priority for the Government, and we will continue to invest in it and work with Provinces, Territories, and key stakeholders to support the needs of individuals and communities across the country, now and in the future.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01276441-01276 (Consumer protection)JennaSuddsKanata—CarletonLiberalONMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023March 20, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • In 2019, the Ministers of Industry, Seniors, and Middle-Class Prosperity were mandated to create a Canadian Consumer Advocate to provide a single point of contact for consumers needing help with their complaints about federally regulated banking, telecom, or transportation-related sectors;
  • An extended form of this mandate for improved consumer protection frameworks for all sectors of the economy was supported by Canadians from every province and territory of Canada in the form of a certified House of Commons petition (e-3150) just prior to the dissolution of Parliament in August 2021;
  • The Government of Canada subsequently removed the mandate to create a Canadian Consumer Advocate in the newly-formed Parliament;
  • Canadians and Canadian consumer organizations continue to believe that federal government attention to protecting consumers has eroded over the past several decades and consumers' voices are absent when important policy, regulatory and legislative decisions are made;
  • COVID-19 has created stress on the consumer protection legal, regulatory and standards frameworks Canada depends upon, exposing gaps in governments' preparedness and capacity to protect Canadians;
  • The current patchwork approach to consumer protection is a failing strategy as Canadians navigate increasingly complex markets dominated by international factors and powerful special interests, and this will hamper a post COVID-19 economic recovery; and
  • Progress in meeting future economic and social challenges lies in the establishment of an independent federal advocate with a sole function to argue for consumers, support their voice through civil society, and stress the relationship of their needs to the decisionmaking processes within agencies of government.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to continue with their previous initiative to establish an independent Canadian Consumer Advocate answerable to Parliament to advance consumer interests and work with civil society to represent the consumer voice.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE FRANÇOIS-PHILIPPE CHAMPAGNEThe Government of Canada would like to thank the petitioners for sharing their views on improving Canada’s consumer protection framework.The government recognizes Canadian consumers' vital role in securing our economic future in a post-COVID environment. This is demonstrated in its focus on implementing a number of measures to make life more affordable for Canadians and ensure greater consumer protection. These efforts include those outlined in Budget 2022 and Budget 2023, such as:
  • Introducing targeted legislation to strengthen Canada’s external complaints handling systems for banks and to designate a single, not-for-profit corporate body as the sole external complaints body (ECB). These enhancements will remove the ability for banks to choose which ECB to be a member of and ensure that the complaints-handling system will no longer run on a for-profit basis.  
  • Strengthening air passenger rights and airline obligations to compensate passengers for delays and cancellations and aligning Canada's air passenger rights regime with those of leading international approaches to ensure that passengers are fairly compensated. These measures build on the government’s March 14, 2023, announcement of an additional $75.9 million in funding over three years to the Canadian Transportation Agency for air passenger consumer protection. 
  • Working with regulatory agencies, provinces, and territories to reduce the unexpected, hidden, and additional fees that have become a consumers burden without adding value. The government is referring to these additional fees as junk fees. It is committed to examining how it can work to limit these unnecessary costs to consumers on goods and services – including higher telecom roaming charges, event and concert fees, excess baggage fees, and unjustified shipping and freight fees. This builds on recent steps the government has taken to protect Canadians from hidden costs, including the 2022 amendments to the Competition Act to clarify that the practice of “drip pricing” (failing to disclose all obligatory charges at the outset) is false or misleading.
Further, the Prime Minister directed the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, through his current mandate letter, to enhance consumer protection with commitments that include: 
  • Undertaking a broad review of the current legislative and structural elements that may restrict or hinder competition. This includes, the role and functioning of the Competition Act and its enforcement regime; whether key aspects of the regime are fit for purpose; and whether the law can stand up to new challenges brought about by the evolution of our economy, especially digital transformation. This is in part to ensure that Canadians are protected from anti-consumer practices in critical sectors, including in the oil and gas, telecommunications and financial services sectors;
  • Introducing legislation to advance the Digital Charter, strengthen privacy protections for consumers and provide a clear set of rules that ensure fair competition in the online marketplace.
As a preliminary step toward modernizing Canada’s competition regime and addressing current market concerns, the government recently made some changes to the Competition Act to better protect Canadian consumers, businesses and workers from anti-competitive conduct. Building on these changes, between November 2022 and March 2023, the government held a public consultation toward a broader and open-ended review of the law, inviting comments from the general public on various areas for potential improvement and reconsideration in the Competition Act, that will help the Competition Bureau better protect consumers and the integrity of the marketplace. Further information on this consultation is available on the Consultation on the future of competition policy in Canada page.Furthermore, in August 2021, the Government of Canada launched the Consumer Hub, an online resource finder to help consumers seek redress for banking, telecom or transportation-related complaints. Since its launch, around 500 users visit the hub each month, with popular searches on topics like travel agency issues, mobile phone equipment issues, banks, and over 65% of visitors looking for information on the transportation sector.These and other actions continue to protect and empower consumers as the government works to build a more resilient, sustainable, and competitive economy post-pandemic. Once again, thank you for bringing these concerns forward.
AdvocateConsumers and consumer protection
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2023441-01429441-01429 (Justice)MartinShieldsBow RiverConservativeABMay 8, 2023June 21, 2023March 20, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Medical assistance in dying will expand to Canadians with mental illness on March 17, 2023, unless Parliament intervenes;
  • Parliament considers it a priority to ensure that supports are in place for the mental health of everyone in Canada;
  • Vulnerable Canadians must be given suicide prevention instead of suicide assistance;
  • Medical assistance in dying risks normalizing suicide as a solution for those suffering from mental illness; and
  • Canada should focus on increasing mental health supports and improving access to these supports instead of offering medical assistance in dying for those with mental illness.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Stop the expansion of medical assistance in dying to those with mental illness.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal matter. In 2021, Parliament passed former Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying), which responds to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime.The Government recognizes the difficult issues that arise when a mental illness is the sole underlying medical condition for a MAID request. Former Bill C-7, as adopted, excluded mental illness, on its own, as an eligible medical condition until March 2023. This temporary exclusion provided time for a panel of experts to examine the issue and recommend protocols, guidance and safeguards to apply to requests for MAID by persons who have a mental illness. The Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness was launched to undertake this review, and tabled its final report on May 13, 2022. Former Bill C-7 also required the establishment of a joint Parliamentary Committee to study this issue and other important issues concerning MAID. The Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) undertook this study and tabled its final report on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.On March 9, 2023, the MAID mental illness exclusion was extended for one year through Bill C-39, An Act to amend An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying). This means that the provision of MAID where the sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness will continue to be prohibited until March 17, 2024. This extension will allow more time for the dissemination and uptake of key resources to the medical and nursing communities, and for the Government to meaningfully consider AMAD’s final report which provides further insight in this area.The Government continues to consider ways to ensure that our MAID laws reflect our evolving understanding of Canadians’ needs, support autonomy and freedom of choice, and protect those who may be vulnerable.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2023441-01230441-01230 (Environment)Lisa MarieBarronNanaimo—LadysmithNDPBCMarch 29, 2023May 12, 2023March 20, 2023Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reductions targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seizing the generational economic opportunities that a net zero future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonisation technology in the conventional energy sector.As part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. On December 8, 2022, the Government announced the implementation of this commitment with the release of the policy guidelines that lay the foundation for federal departments and agencies to put in place the measures set out in this commitment. By ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada will ensure its investments abroad are aligned with its domestic and international climate goals, which means investing in clean energy and renewables.In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated the timeline to do so to this year. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also announced that it will cap and cut emissions from the oil and gas sector in line with Canada’s climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.With a highly skilled and educated workforce, and with the abundant natural resources and energy sources critical for a net-zero future, Canada is uniquely positioned to benefit from a low-carbon economy. The Government is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required – including legislation – to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero future.  This is why the Government released its interim Sustainable Jobs Plan in February of this year. This Plan is complementary to – and in fact a part of – Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth. In drafting this Plan, the Government consulted widely with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society.This Plan also lays out the Government’s proposed approach to sustainable jobs legislation, which will create a framework for accountability, engagement and transparency that will ensure we empower workers and communities while building economic opportunities in ways that give confidence to Canadians.In addition to outlining the Government’s approach to legislation, the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan also describes the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, renewable energy, low-carbon building products, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and small modular reactors, Canada has a major opportunity to build a net-zero future that works for everyone. There are also significant opportunities for sustainable jobs in conventional energy industries that are working to lower their emissions in line with Canada’s climate policy, enabling producers to be low-emissions suppliers of products to a world in transition.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables are a key initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables were created to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, as well as experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada so that they can realize their comparative advantages in a net-zero emissions economy. The federal government has jointly launched nine such Regional Tables already, with British Columbia, the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.Since 2016, the Government of Canada has also earmarked $120 billion in investments to support emissions reductions and the low-carbon economy. In addition to these investments, the Government has developed targeted tax measures that similarly work to support the creation of sustainable jobs. For example, new Investment Tax Credits for Clean Hydrogen and Clean Technologies were announced in the 2022 Fall Economic Statement, and they would provide a refundable tax credit equal to 30 per cent of the capital cost of investments in clean energy technologies for claimants that meet certain labour conditions (20 per cent rate for those who do not). The Fall Economic Statement also unveiled details of the Canada Growth Fund, which seeks to attract billions of dollars in private capital to reduce Canada’s emissions, grow the economy and create good jobs.Recognizing the importance of helping Canadians access job training for the net-zero future, the Government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including for sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers transition to and take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the Fall Economic Statement announced funding to create a Sustainable Jobs Secretariat, establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program, and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a net-zero world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
    • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
    • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
    • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
    • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
    • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of sustainable jobs and skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykOn February 17, 2023 the Government of Canada released the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan 2023-2025, which included 10 concrete actions being taken to support the creation of sustainable jobs and help workers in every part of Canada.This interim plan is informed by over two years of consultations and conversations with provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, workers and unions, industry, environmental and civil society organizations and interested Canadians. This interim plan defines the federal government’s commitment to make progress on implementing the 10 key action areas, including a high-level summary of the approach to sustainable jobs legislation.The Government is preparing to introduce this legislation in 2023. It will lay out a framework for federal governance, accountability, and engagement that will help ensure a coherent and coordinated federal approach for implementing measures that support sustainable job creation.The Government of Canada has also been working to move forward on a path to a net-zero emissions economy for several years. Since 2015, the Government has earmarked $120 billion to help achieve climate and environment objectives, accelerate economic growth, and support the creation of sustainable jobs.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce. The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand; 
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and, 
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table to advise the Government on priorities for helping workers navigate the changing labour market.The 2022 Fall Economic Statement (FES) further proposes to provide $250 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy. Specific measures include: a Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and a new Sustainable Jobs Secretariat.The Sustainable Jobs Training Centre will bring together workers, unions, employers, and training institutions across the country to examine the skills of the labour force today, forecast future skills requirements, and develop curriculum, micro-credentials, and on-site learning to help 15,000 workers upgrade or gain new skills for jobs in a low-carbon economy. The Centre would focus on specific areas in high demand, starting with the sustainable battery industry and low-carbon building and retrofits.The FES also proposes to put in place a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program to support unions in leading the development of green skills training for works in the trades. It is expected that 20,000 apprentices and journeypersons would benefit from this investment.To effectively support workers on the road to sustainable, good-paying jobs, the FES also proposes to launch the Sustainable Jobs Secretariat to offer a one-stop shop for workers and employers. It will provide the most up to date information on federal programs, funding, and services across government departments as Canada works to build a low-carbon economy with opportunities for everyone.    
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2023441-01226441-01226 (Business and trade)StephanieKusieCalgary MidnaporeConservativeABMarch 29, 2023May 12, 2023March 21, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights as well as labour and environmental standards. The Minister of Labour, with support from the Ministers of Public Safety, Public Services and Procurement, as well as International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, remains committed to introducing legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains, while also ensuring that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses.In March 2022, the Government of Canada published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains: What We Heard Report, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and to share feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals, and the Government continues to consider the results of consultations.Members of Parliament unanimously voted to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act, studied by Committee.Bill S-211 has sparked important dialogue and helped advance the issue of forced labour in supply chains. However, some stakeholders expressed concern that the bill does not go far enough to address the issue of forced labour in supply chains, and others noted some operational considerations, including time needed to prepare for implementation. Irrespective of the outcome of the parliamentary process regarding Bill S-211, the Government of Canada committed, as part of the 2023 federal budget, to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and to strengthen the import ban on goods produced using forced labour by 2024. This is an important but complex issue, and we will continue to work together with stakeholders and international partners to make sure we get it right.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government of Canada also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business conduct abroad. For example, Canada is part of a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights and works to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Trade sanctions or financial penalties can also be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government of Canada introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. It is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. Within the National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to promoting ethical corporate practices by encouraging industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their subcontractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that they can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.At the September 2022 G7 Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, G7 partners committed to strengthen cooperation and collective efforts towards eradicating the use of all forms of forced labour and child labour in global supply chains. This commitment includes measures that promote corporate due diligence, as well as working to further enhance predictability and certainty for businesses.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in all their activities abroad, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines, such as the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy. To this end, Global Affairs Canada released its RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad – no matter their size, sector, or scope – to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains and to help them mitigate risks. The Strategy strengthens Canada’s balanced approach to RBC, which includes preventative measures, legislation in select areas, and access to dispute resolution.In terms of access to dispute resolution, the Government of Canada supports Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). The NCP is mandated to offer facilitated dialogue and mediation to all sectors on issues covered by the OECD Guidelines, including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery. The NCP can address complaints directed at the activities of multinational enterprises in Canada and the operations of Canadian multinational enterprises operating abroad. The CORE can review complaints of alleged human rights abuses by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil and gas, and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies will participate in good faith in these dispute resolution processes. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of or follow-up to a review process, both the NCP and the CORE can recommend the withdrawal of Trade Commissioner Service support and that Export Development Canada, and the Canadian Commercial Corporation also withdraw future support. The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. The two mechanisms can offer effective and accessible alternatives to judicial processes, although they do not preclude a party from addressing the issues in other fora. The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation.
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01682441-01682 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023March 22, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The US Commission on International Religious Freedom reported that various actors in India have advocated, instituted, and enforced sectarian policies seeking to establish India as an overtly Hindu state, contrary to India's secular and pluralistic foundation, posing grave danger to India's religious minorities;
  • Christians in India are facing targeted attacks by extremists, with 486 incidents of anti-Christian attacks in 2021 according to the United Christian Forum, and over 300 attacks reported as of July 2022, including widespread documentation of Church vandalism, assaults of Church workers, and Christian congregations threatened and humiliated;
  • Crimes against Dalit groups, including Dalit women and girls, are reported every hour according to a 2021 report by the National Crime Records Bureau, with the total cases increasing to 50,900 in 2021 compared with 50,291 in 2020; and
  • Indian Muslims are at risk of genocide according to NGO Genocide Watch, which documented "signs and processes" of genocide in India, further supported by credible reports indicating that growing Muslim minorities are subject to planned and targeted threats, assault, sexual violence and killings.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Formally ensure that all trade deals with India, including the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA), are premised on mandatory human rights provisions;2. Initiate targeted sanctions against extremists guilty of inciting violence against religious minorities in India; and3. Promote mutually respectful and mutually beneficial human rights dialogue between Canada and India.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is committed to creating economic opportunities through initiatives such as trade agreements so that more Canadians can engage in, and benefit from, trade, while at the same time advancing broader social, labour, and environmental priorities in Canada, such as inclusive growth and the promotion of human rights. Fostering greater engagement and closer ties with countries through trade agreements is also an effective way of promoting Canadian values, such as human rights, democracy, openness, respect for the rule of law, and rules-based international trade. With respect to trade agreement negotiations, the Government of Canada has paused negotiations with India to further review and reflect. The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting exporters to find opportunities to expand into international markets, including in the fast-growing Indo-Pacific Region.The promotion and protection of human rights has long been an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Canada believes that human rights are the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world. Canada remains a firm and consistent voice, speaking up for the protection and promotion of human rights and the advancement of democratic values. Canada’s autonomous sanctions regime is one of many tools that support this important work. The government remains committed to monitoring issues of human rights, such as freedom of religion or belief and the protection of the rights of persons belonging to minority groups around the world, on an ongoing basis. Canada is also committed to promoting freedom of religion or belief internationally and at home, working with partners to create a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity and against the persecution of minorities on the grounds of religion or belief. No person or group should face restrictions on the freedom to practise their faith or belief, whether in the form of laws, policies, or actions or through harassment or violence. It causes suffering and division and leads to a climate of fear, intolerance, and stigmatization. Canada will continue to stand up for this freedom while promoting diversity and inclusion for all.
Civil and human rightsIndiaInternational tradeReligious minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 4, 2023441-01782441-01782 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 19, 2023December 4, 2023March 22, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The US Commission on International Religious Freedom reported that various actors in India have advocated, instituted, and enforced sectarian policies seeking to establish India as an overtly Hindu state, contrary to India's secular and pluralistic foundation, posing grave danger to India's religious minorities;
  • Christians in India are facing targeted attacks by extremists, with 486 incidents of anti-Christian attacks in 2021 according to the United Christian Forum, and over 300 attacks reported as of July 2022, including widespread documentation of Church vandalism, assaults of Church workers, and Christian congregations threatened and humiliated;
  • Crimes against Dalit groups, including Dalit women and girls, are reported every hour according to a 2021 report by the National Crime Records Bureau, with the total cases increasing to 50,900 in 2021 compared with 50,291 in 2020; and
  • Indian Muslims are at risk of genocide according to NGO Genocide Watch, which documented "signs and processes" of genocide in India, further supported by credible reports indicating that growing Muslim minorities are subject to planned and targeted threats, assault, sexual violence and killings.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Formally ensure that all trade deals with India, including the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA), are premised on mandatory human rights provisions;2. Initiate targeted sanctions against extremists guilty of inciting violence against religious minorities in India; and3. Promote mutually respectful and mutually beneficial human rights dialogue between Canada and India.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is committed to creating economic opportunities through initiatives such as trade agreements so that more Canadians can engage in, and benefit from, trade, while at the same time advancing broader social, labour, and environmental priorities in Canada, such as inclusive growth and the promotion of human rights. Fostering greater engagement and closer ties with countries through trade agreements is also an effective way of promoting Canadian values, such as human rights, democracy, openness, respect for the rule of law, and rules-based international trade. With respect to trade agreement negotiations, the Government of Canada has paused negotiations with India to further review and reflect. The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting exporters to find opportunities to expand into international markets, including in the fast-growing Indo-Pacific Region.The promotion and protection of human rights has long been an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Canada believes that human rights are the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world. Canada remains a firm and consistent voice, speaking up for the protection and promotion of human rights and the advancement of democratic values. Canada’s autonomous sanctions regime is one of many tools that support this important work. The government remains committed to monitoring issues of human rights, such as freedom of religion or belief and the protection of the rights of persons belonging to minority groups around the world, on an ongoing basis. Canada is also committed to promoting freedom of religion or belief internationally and at home, working with partners to create a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity and against the persecution of minorities on the grounds of religion or belief. No person or group should face restrictions on the freedom to practise their faith or belief, whether in the form of laws, policies, or actions or through harassment or violence. It causes suffering and division and leads to a climate of fear, intolerance, and stigmatization. Canada will continue to stand up for this freedom while promoting diversity and inclusion for all.
Civil and human rightsIndiaInternational tradeReligious minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023441-01343441-01343 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCApril 26, 2023June 9, 2023April 24, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Amendments were made to the Criminal Code on June 23, 2022, allowing for extreme intoxication to act as a defense for violent crimes like assault and sexual assault where a "reasonable person would not have foreseen the risk of a violent loss of control";
  • The National Enquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls found that rates of violence against Indigenous women and girls to be alarmingly higher than any other demographic in Canada;
  • First Nation communities are often in rural areas under-served by law enforcement creating longer response times and greater potential for violent acts of crime; and
  • Alcoholism and substance abuse is a rapidly growing issue leaving First Nations more vulnerable to acts of violence. According to the First Nation Health Authority, First Nations make up only 3.3% of British Columbia's population but a staggering 15% of toxic drug deaths.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Federal Government, to remove their amendments to the Criminal Code related to extreme intoxication and uphold their commitment to protecting First Nations safety and right to a justice system that honours victims by holding offenders responsible for violent crime.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeFirst Nations, Inuit and Metis people face substantial systemic barriers in accessing justice, as victims, offenders, and families. Transformational change is needed within the justice system and at the community level to improve access to justice for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.The Government of Canada is committed to facilitating systemic transformation throughout the justice system, supporting self-determination, and community-based Indigenous-led justice solutions. Actions to end violence against Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people must be Indigenous-led to bring real change. That is why the Federal Pathway outlines the key actions needed to ensure a fairer, strong, inclusive and representative justice system that respects the rights of Indigenous Peoples, and protects Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.The Government of Canada also recognizes the differential impact of intoxicated violence on Indigenous women and girls, and commits to ensuring that the justice system holds offenders accountable.In R v Brown (2022), the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) struck down the previous version of section 33.1 of the Criminal Code, which prevented an accused person from relying on extreme intoxication as a defence for violent crimes like assault, sexual assault, and manslaughter. The SCC held that section 33.1 violated sections 7 (the right not to be deprived of life, liberty and security of the person except in accordance with a principle of fundamental justice) and 11(d) (the presumption of innocence) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and declared it to be unconstitutional because individuals could be convicted of a crime of violence in circumstances where they did not meet the minimum requirements for criminal liability.The Brown decision created a gap in the law that would have allowed accused persons charged with violent crimes, such as assault or sexual assault, to escape liability in cases where they negligently became extremely intoxicated, lost control and harmed another person.Bill C-28, which came into force on June 23, 2022, addressed this gap in the law. Rather than enacting a defence, section 33.1 now provides a means to hold individuals criminally responsible for their actions in cases where they voluntarily consumed intoxicants in a criminally negligent manner, lost control of their actions and harmed others. Importantly, these changes did not alter the basic legal principle that being drunk or high is never a defence to crimes like assault or sexual assault. More information on these changes can be found here: https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/trans/bm-mb/other-autre/c28/index.html.The enactment of section 33.1 promotes public safety, particularly for those who are at greatest risk of violence, including women and children. These changes reflect the Government’s broader efforts to address gender-based violence and to support victims of crime. For instance, funding of $539.3 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, was provided to Women and Gender Equality Canada to enable provinces and territories to supplement and enhance services and supports within their jurisdictions to prevent gender-based violence and support survivors. Bill S-12, An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Sex Offender Information Registration Act and the International Transfer of Offenders Act, which was introduced in the Senate on April 26, 2023, proposes amendments to strengthen the National Sex Offender Registry regime, respond to the Supreme Court of Canada decision in R v Ndhlovu, provide victims with more information about cases and more autonomy relating to publication ban orders.
Criminal CodeDrugs and alcohol-related crimeIndigenous peoples
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01443441-01443 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONMay 11, 2023August 16, 2023April 24, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history.Firearms violence is a complex issue affecting Canadians in both urban and rural settings and implicates various types of firearms. As part of a comprehensive approach to address gun violence and strengthen gun laws in Canada, the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and, since its introduction, the Government has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.Despite a long history of handgun regulation in Canada, handgun violence continues to inflict significant damage to Canadians and communities. Handguns are the weapon of choice in most firearm-related crimes, which is why limiting the number of handguns is a critical part of the Government’s plan to protect Canadians from gun violence. In order to strengthen handgun control across Canada, Bill C-21 includes measures that would essentially cap the domestic lawful handgun market in Canada by freezing the sale, purchase, or transfer of handguns by individuals within Canada and prevent individuals from bringing newly acquired firearms into Canada. The freeze on the sale, purchase or transfer of handguns by individuals within Canada, and on the importation of newly acquired handguns into Canada, came into force by regulatory amendments pursuant to the Firearms Act on October 21, 2022.Bill C-21 puts the safety of Canadians first by recognizing that handgun use is appropriate in some situations and providing for limited exceptions from the national freeze on handguns.When Bill C-21 was introduced, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns in society, and were withdrawn to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1, 2023 took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measures to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from entering Canada were announced. In addition to proposed amendments, the government also announced its intention to re-establish the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee, and through regulations, require that manufacturers seek a Firearms Reference Table number before being allowed to sell in Canada.On May 12, 2023, the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (SECU) adopted the revised amendments to Bill C-21. The proposed measures would add a new prospective technical definition to the definition of “prohibited firearm” in the Criminal Code;  address the growing threat of illegally manufactured firearms, otherwise known as “ghost guns”; and include a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we are committed to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture.Our Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada. This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.With these initiatives, the Government is taking concrete steps to our country less vulnerable to firearms violence while being fair to responsible firearms owners and businesses.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01495441-01495 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBJune 1, 2023September 18, 2023May 12, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. Our Government recently announced an additional $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) that will help municipalities and Indigenous communities prevent gun and gang violence by tackling root causes of crime. We had previously announced $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $500 Million. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada recently met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE DOMINIC LEBLANC, P.C, K.C., M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.The MCC was established by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, as an independent public inquiry tasked to examine the tragedy that took place in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19, 2020. On May 31, 2023, the federal Minister of Public Safety, and Nova Scotia Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the appointment of Linda Lee Oland as Founding Chair of the Progress Monitoring Committee. In addition to this appointment, the Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the recommendations of the MCC final report, recognizing that the findings and recommendations are applicable to all Canadian jurisdictions.Furthermore, in the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01474441-01474 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBMay 29, 2023September 18, 2023May 12, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. Our Government recently announced an additional $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) that will help municipalities and Indigenous communities prevent gun and gang violence by tackling root causes of crime. We had previously announced $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $500 Million. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada recently met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, P.C, K.C., M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.The MCC was established by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, as an independent public inquiry tasked to examine the tragedy that took place in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19, 2020. On May 31, 2023, the federal Minister of Public Safety, and Nova Scotia Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the appointment of Linda Lee Oland as Founding Chair of the Progress Monitoring Committee. In addition to this appointment, the Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the recommendations of the MCC final report, recognizing that the findings and recommendations are applicable to all Canadian jurisdictions.Furthermore, in the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 1, 2023441-01608441-01608 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 18, 2023November 1, 2023May 15, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The US Commission on International Religious Freedom reported that various actors in India have advocated, instituted, and enforced sectarian policies seeking to establish India as an overtly Hindu state, contrary to India's secular and pluralistic foundation, posing grave danger to India's religious minorities;
  • Christians in India are facing targeted attacks by extremists, with 486 incidents of anti-Christian attacks in 2021 according to the United Christian Forum, and over 300 attacks reported as of July 2022, including widespread documentation of Church vandalism, assaults of Church workers, and Christian congregations threatened and humiliated;
  • Crimes against Dalit groups, including Dalit women and girls, are reported every hour according to a 2021 report by the National Crime Records Bureau, with the total cases increasing to 50,900 in 2021 compared with 50,291 in 2020; and
  • Indian Muslims are at risk of genocide according to NGO Genocide Watch, which documented "signs and processes" of genocide in India, further supported by credible reports indicating that growing Muslim minorities are subject to planned and targeted threats, assault, sexual violence and killings.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Formally ensure that all trade deals with India, including the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA), are premised on mandatory human rights provisions;2. Initiate targeted sanctions against extremists guilty of inciting violence against religious minorities in India; and3. Promote mutually respectful and mutually beneficial human rights dialogue between Canada and India.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is committed to creating economic opportunities through initiatives such as trade agreements so that more Canadians can engage in, and benefit from, trade, while at the same time advancing broader social, labour, and environmental priorities in Canada, such as inclusive growth and the promotion of human rights. Fostering greater engagement and closer ties with countries through trade agreements is also an effective way of promoting Canadian values, such as human rights, democracy, openness, respect for the rule of law, and rules-based international trade. With respect to trade agreement negotiations, the Government of Canada has paused negotiations with India to further review and reflect. The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting exporters to find opportunities to expand into international markets, including in the fast-growing Indo-Pacific Region. The promotion and protection of human rights has long been an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Canada believes that human rights are the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world. Canada remains a firm and consistent voice, speaking up for the protection and promotion of human rights and the advancement of democratic values. Canada’s autonomous sanctions regime is one of many tools that support this important work. The government remains committed to monitoring issues of human rights, such as freedom of religion or belief and the protection of the rights of persons belonging to minority groups around the world, on an ongoing basis. Canada is also committed to promoting freedom of religion or belief internationally and at home, working with partners to create a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity and against the persecution of minorities on the grounds of religion or belief. No person or group should face restrictions on the freedom to practise their faith or belief, whether in the form of laws, policies, or actions or through harassment or violence. It causes suffering and division and leads to a climate of fear, intolerance, and stigmatization. Canada will continue to stand up for this freedom while promoting diversity and inclusion for all.
Civil and human rightsIndiaInternational tradeReligious minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01661441-01661 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCSeptember 26, 2023November 9, 2023May 18, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada Whereas:
  • Canadians care deeply about the health of the ocean, and depend on a thriving ocean ecosystem;
  • In 2019, over one million cruise ship passengers travelled off British Columbia on their way to Alaska;
  • These ships generate significant amounts of pollutants that are harmful to human health, aquatic organisms and coastal ecosystems;
  • Canada's regulations under the Canada Shipping Act addressing the discharge of sewage and greywater are much less stringent than those in US Pacific coastal states;
  • Canada permits sewage to be discharged with 18 times greater fecal coliform counts than does Alaska;
  • Canada does not require that ships built before 2013 treat greywater discharges;
  • 22 of the 25 cruise ships sailing off British Columbia in 2019 were built before 2013;
  • The Salish Sea in Washington State is a no-discharge zone prohibiting the discharge of sewage in order to protect public health, water quality, and sensitive marine resources;
  • Canada has zero no-discharge zones off British Columbia;
  • Canada does not require third party independent observers on board cruise ships as is required by Alaska; and
  • Canada's less stringent regulations encourage cruise ships to discharge their waste off British Columbia.
We, the undersigned, concerned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Set standards for cruise ship sewage and greywater discharges equivalent to or stronger than those in Alaska;2. Designate no-discharge zones to stop pollution in marine protected areas, the entirety of the Salish and Great Bear Seas, and in critical habitat for threatened and endangered species; and3. Require regular independent third-party monitoring while ships are underway to ensure discharge requirements are met.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezPart 1: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution.On June 23, 2023, Transport Canada announced mandatory environmental measures to address discharges of greywater and sewage from cruise ships, effective immediately, within Canada’s territorial waters. These substances were previously included in voluntary measures, but will now be enforceable under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 to provide stronger protection to Canada’s oceans and marine ecosystems. For more information, please refer to Ship Safety Bulletin No. 14/2023. These measures exceed international standards, strengthen Canada’s existing discharge regime, and place Canada amongst the countries with the most stringent requirements for these types of discharges in the world.The announcement of these new mandatory measures for sewage and greywater discharges in Canadian waters is a first step towards strengthening Transport Canada’s environmental regime. The mandatory measures also reflect work undertaken by Transport Canada to address concerns raised by the Canadian public and environmental organizations with respect to vessel-sourced pollution in Canadian waters.Transport Canada is currently working to make these changes permanent through amendments to the Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemicals Regulations. Transport Canada will also continue to collaborate with the United States and other like-minded jurisdictions to support the implementation of a strong environmental regime that takes in to account our respective and unique jurisdictions.Part 2: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and our marine environments from coast to coast to coast, to build a new world class environmental regime. Strengthening marine environmental protection requires a whole of government approach. Transport Canada is working closely with Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada towards this shared objective.On February 8, 2023, the Government of Canada unveiled its 2023 Marine Protected Area Protection Standard, which, among other things, seeks to enhance restrictions on certain vessel discharges that occur within marine protected areas, including those located within the Salish and Great Bear Seas. Subject to further consultations with stakeholders, additional limitations or prohibitions are proposed for: oily engine bilge; sewage (blackwater); greywater; food waste; and scrubber washwater.In compliance with international regulations and law, voluntary measures for these substances, with the addition of garbage (including food wastes) and noxious liquid substances, will be also pursued in the Exclusive Economic Zone, 12–200 nautical miles from shore, where possible.Transport Canada also continues to support the ongoing work at the International Maritime Organization on these and related subjects. Part 3: Transport Canada has a robust marine oversight regime and is responsible for carrying out compliance and enforcement activities in accordance with the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and its regulations. The Department’s compliance and enforcement activities apply to Canadian and foreign vessels in Canadian waters. In instances where deficiencies or non-compliance are suspected or known, Transport Canada inspectors and investigators are authorized to take appropriate action to bring vessels into compliance. This may include directing corrective actions, issuing warnings or Administrative Monetary Penalties and Notices, or pursuing detentions and prosecutions through the Public Prosecution Service of Canada and the courts. Transport Canada compliance and enforcement actions are guided by the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and its regulations. Transport Canada will take into consideration new and/or additional methods to support oversight, as needed, as it continues to develop enhanced measures to strengthen Canada’s discharge requirements.Transport Canada will continue to engage with industry and interested parties to determine how to further strengthen the marine environmental regime, where needed. This would include consideration towards the compliance and enforcement regime.  
British ColumbiaCruise shipsSewage treatment and disposalWater quality
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01676441-01676 (Citizenship and immigration)GregMcLeanCalgary CentreConservativeABSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023May 18, 2023Petition to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipWHEREAS:
  • Sudan is facing a political crisis since the military dissolved the power-sharing government and declared a state of emergency;
  • The pro-democracy movement and the security forces have clashed in mass protests and killings; and
  • Ethnic violence has escalated in some regions over land disputes, leading to hundreds of deaths and a state of emergency.
We, the undersigned residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to:
  • Fast track processing of immigration files of Sudanese residents who wish to immigrate to Canada, in particular those who have family who are Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAUL CHIANG, M.P.Canada continues to call for an end to violence in Sudan and stands with the Sudanese people as they strive for peace.To support Sudanese nationals in Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced Temporary measures for Sudanese nationals, who are currently in Canada and may be unable to return home due to the rapidly deteriorating situation in their country.As of April 30, 2023, Sudanese nationals can apply for an extension of their status in Canada and move between temporary resident streams, allowing them to continue studying, working or visiting family free of charge. This includes applying for open work permits that provide access to the labour market and greater flexibility to support themselves while they are in Canada. These measures will help ensure the continued safety of the Sudanese population already in Canada, keep families together, and give them a safe place to stay.IRCC also introduced Temporary measures to support family members of Canadian citizens and Canadian permanent residents who have departed Sudan since the violence erupted.Under these measures, eligible foreign nationals, who fled Sudan on or after April 15, 2023 with their Canadian citizen or permanent resident family member(s), may be issued a fee-exempt temporary resident document to facilitate their travel to Canada. Travel must have been completed by July 15, 2023. Once in Canada, they will be eligible to apply for a fee-exempt open work permit or study permit, as well as submit a fee-exempt permanent resident application under the family class. Under these measures, a foreign national is eligible for facilitated travel to Canada if they meet the following requirements:
  1. is the family member – per the definition of subsection 1(3) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations – of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada who left Sudan on or after April 15, 2023;
  2. is outside of Sudan in a third country; and,
  3. left Sudan on or after April 15, 2023.
Further, to facilitate immigration applications for those still in Sudan so they can travel once it is safe to do so, IRCC is also prioritizing the processing of completed temporary and permanent residence applications already in the system from people still in the country. This includes visitor visa applications for eligible immediate family members of Canadian citizens and Canadian permanent residents, so they can join their loved ones here in Canada.Canada is also waiving passport and permanent resident travel document fees for citizens and permanent residents of Canada in Sudan who wish to leave.
Immigration and immigrantsSudan
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01514441-01514 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 5, 2023August 16, 2023May 26, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and international engagement.Canada is strongly committed to working with governments, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations, to promote inclusive and accountable governance around the world. Canada is consistently a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values.Canada’s leadership in the fight against arbitrary detention demonstrates its steadfast commitment to upholding universal human rights and the rules-based international order.The Government of Canada maintains an active and open dialogue with the Turkish, Pakistani and Bahraini Governments concerning human rights, as part of Canada’s commitment to promote democracy and uphold human rights and the rule of law globally.Global Affairs Canada officials met with the Turkish families that reported of their arrest in Pakistan and Bahrain and eventual detention in Türkiye, before moving to Canada. Global Affairs Canada officials have also received a submission from these families, requesting sanctions against specific Turkish officials in relation to their previous detention in Türkiye.Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order – sanctions are a key component of this approach. We also consider the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security, combatting corruption, and promoting respect for norms and values, including human rights. Canada carefully considers the bilateral consequences that any sanction measures could have. To that end, Global Affairs Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Wherever possible, Canada coordinates closely with likeminded allies, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, to maximize the effectiveness of sanctions.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01833441-01833 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 25, 2023December 11, 2023May 26, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • There are no laws that require makers, distributers or advertisers of commercial pornographic material to ascertain and document the consent and age of those depicted in the material;
  • Recommendation #2 from the 2021 Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Report on MindGeek states: "That the Government of Canada mandate that contenthosting platforms operating in Canada require affirmation from all persons depicted in pornographic content, before it can be uploaded, that they are 18 years old or older and that they consent to its distribution";
  • Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act adds two offences to the Criminal Code: to create pornographic material for a commercial purpose without verifying the age and consent of the individuals shown, and to distribute pornographic material without verifying the age and consent of those depicted and also removing material if in writing, consent has been withdrawn; and
  • Organizations including Defend Dignity, the National Council of Women of Canada, London Abused Women's Shelter, Montreal Council of Women, Parents Aware and the National Centre on Child Exploitation have all expressed support for Bill C-270.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to swiftly adopt Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThere is no room in Canada for sexual exploitation. Our Government is committed to ensuring that all individuals are safe from sexual exploitation, including online. It is for this exact reason that the Minister of Canadian Heritage’s December 2021 mandate letter commits to introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content, taking into consideration the feedback received from the Canadian public in 2021.In 2022, we took it a step further, which included an expert advisory group, a Citizens’ Assembly, Indigenous engagement, which involved a sharing circle and one-on-one interviews, and 20 Ministerial roundtables across Canada. Our Government is committed to putting in place a regulatory framework to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful content online. Online services have a role to play to make the Internet a safer place for all users in Canada.Furthermore, the Criminal Code includes a strong and comprehensive approach that protects against sexual exploitation, including offences that prohibit non-consensual distribution of intimate images (section 162.1), as well as child-specific sexual offences, including child pornography (section 163.1), making sexually explicit material available to a child (section 171.1) and luring a child (section 172.1). Canada’s laws addressing child sexual offending also apply extra-territorially, which means that prosecutions can happen in Canada for crimes allegedly committed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents abroad.An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide Internet service came into force on December 8, 2011. This Act requires a Canadian provider of Internet services to report to police when they have reasonable grounds to believe that their Internet service is being or has been used to commit a child pornography offence, such as making child pornography available, or distributing child pornography. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) is responsible under the Act for another measure to protect the Canadian public. It receives, and processes, reports of child pornography and child abuse on the Internet from Canadian providers of Internet services. C3P is a registered charitable organization that operates Cybertip.ca, which receives and processes tips from the public about potentially illegal material online related to child sexual exploitation and then refers any potentially actionable reports to the appropriate authorities. C3P also provides public education and awareness materials, as well as support and referral services for those who need it. In addition, C3P operates Project Arachnid, an automated web crawler, which scans the internet and automatically detects and processes tens of thousands of images per second and sends take down notices to online service providers to remove child sexual abuse material globally. When service providers, subject to the Act, are advised of a location on the Internet where child pornography may be made available to the public, the providers are required under this Act to report to C3P. All of these efforts together make C3P an effective organization that provides tools to protect children and combat child sexual exploitation.
C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material)ConsentLegal agePornography
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01953441-01953 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 22, 2023January 29, 2024May 26, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • There are no laws that require makers, distributers or advertisers of commercial pornographic material to ascertain and document the consent and age of those depicted in the material;
  • Recommendation #2 from the 2021 Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Report on MindGeek states: "That the Government of Canada mandate that contenthosting platforms operating in Canada require affirmation from all persons depicted in pornographic content, before it can be uploaded, that they are 18 years old or older and that they consent to its distribution";
  • Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act adds two offences to the Criminal Code: to create pornographic material for a commercial purpose without verifying the age and consent of the individuals shown, and to distribute pornographic material without verifying the age and consent of those depicted and also removing material if in writing, consent has been withdrawn; and
  • Organizations including Defend Dignity, the National Council of Women of Canada, London Abused Women's Shelter, Montreal Council of Women, Parents Aware and the National Centre on Child Exploitation have all expressed support for Bill C-270.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to swiftly adopt Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThere is no room in Canada for sexual exploitation. Our Government is committed to ensuring that all individuals are safe from sexual exploitation, including online. It is for this exact reason that the Minister of Canadian Heritage’s December 2021 mandate letter commits to introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content, taking into consideration the feedback received from the Canadian public in 2021.In 2022, we took it a step further, which included an expert advisory group, a Citizens’ Assembly, Indigenous engagement, which involved a sharing circle and one-on-one interviews, and 20 Ministerial roundtables across Canada. Our Government is committed to putting in place a regulatory framework to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful content online. Online services have a role to play to make the Internet a safer place for all users in Canada.Furthermore, the Criminal Code includes a strong and comprehensive approach that protects against sexual exploitation, including offences that prohibit non-consensual distribution of intimate images (section 162.1), as well as child-specific sexual offences, including child pornography (section 163.1), making sexually explicit material available to a child (section 171.1) and luring a child (section 172.1). Canada’s laws addressing child sexual offending also apply extra-territorially, which means that prosecutions can happen in Canada for crimes allegedly committed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents abroad.An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide Internet service came into force on December 8, 2011. This Act requires a Canadian provider of Internet services to report to police when they have reasonable grounds to believe that their Internet service is being or has been used to commit a child pornography offence, such as making child pornography available, or distributing child pornography. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) is responsible under the Act for another measure to protect the Canadian public. It receives, and processes, reports of child pornography and child abuse on the Internet from Canadian providers of Internet services. C3P is a registered charitable organization that operates Cybertip.ca, which receives and processes tips from the public about potentially illegal material online related to child sexual exploitation and then refers any potentially actionable reports to the appropriate authorities. C3P also provides public education and awareness materials, as well as support and referral services for those who need it. In addition, C3P operates Project Arachnid, an automated web crawler, which scans the internet and automatically detects and processes tens of thousands of images per second and sends take down notices to online service providers to remove child sexual abuse material globally. When service providers, subject to the Act, are advised of a location on the Internet where child pornography may be made available to the public, the providers are required under this Act to report to C3P. All of these efforts together make C3P an effective organization that provides tools to protect children and combat child sexual exploitation.
C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material)ConsentLegal agePornography
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01830441-01830 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 25, 2023December 11, 2023May 30, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • There are no laws that require makers, distributers or advertisers of commercial pornographic material to ascertain and document the consent and age of those depicted in the material;
  • Recommendation #2 from the 2021 Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Report on MindGeek states: "That the Government of Canada mandate that contenthosting platforms operating in Canada require affirmation from all persons depicted in pornographic content, before it can be uploaded, that they are 18 years old or older and that they consent to its distribution";
  • Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act adds two offences to the Criminal Code: to create pornographic material for a commercial purpose without verifying the age and consent of the individuals shown, and to distribute pornographic material without verifying the age and consent of those depicted and also removing material if in writing, consent has been withdrawn; and
  • Organizations including Defend Dignity, the National Council of Women of Canada, London Abused Women's Shelter, Montreal Council of Women, Parents Aware and the National Centre on Child Exploitation have all expressed support for Bill C-270.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to swiftly adopt Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThere is no room in Canada for sexual exploitation. Our Government is committed to ensuring that all individuals are safe from sexual exploitation, including online. It is for this exact reason that the Minister of Canadian Heritage’s December 2021 mandate letter commits to introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content, taking into consideration the feedback received from the Canadian public in 2021.In 2022, we took it a step further, which included an expert advisory group, a Citizens’ Assembly, Indigenous engagement, which involved a sharing circle and one-on-one interviews, and 20 Ministerial roundtables across Canada. Our Government is committed to putting in place a regulatory framework to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful content online. Online services have a role to play to make the Internet a safer place for all users in Canada.Furthermore, the Criminal Code includes a strong and comprehensive approach that protects against sexual exploitation, including offences that prohibit non-consensual distribution of intimate images (section 162.1), as well as child-specific sexual offences, including child pornography (section 163.1), making sexually explicit material available to a child (section 171.1) and luring a child (section 172.1). Canada’s laws addressing child sexual offending also apply extra-territorially, which means that prosecutions can happen in Canada for crimes allegedly committed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents abroad.An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide Internet service came into force on December 8, 2011. This Act requires a Canadian provider of Internet services to report to police when they have reasonable grounds to believe that their Internet service is being or has been used to commit a child pornography offence, such as making child pornography available, or distributing child pornography. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) is responsible under the Act for another measure to protect the Canadian public. It receives, and processes, reports of child pornography and child abuse on the Internet from Canadian providers of Internet services. C3P is a registered charitable organization that operates Cybertip.ca, which receives and processes tips from the public about potentially illegal material online related to child sexual exploitation and then refers any potentially actionable reports to the appropriate authorities. C3P also provides public education and awareness materials, as well as support and referral services for those who need it. In addition, C3P operates Project Arachnid, an automated web crawler, which scans the internet and automatically detects and processes tens of thousands of images per second and sends take down notices to online service providers to remove child sexual abuse material globally. When service providers, subject to the Act, are advised of a location on the Internet where child pornography may be made available to the public, the providers are required under this Act to report to C3P. All of these efforts together make C3P an effective organization that provides tools to protect children and combat child sexual exploitation.
C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material)ConsentLegal agePornography
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01518441-01518 (Environment)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNDPBCJune 8, 2023July 19, 2023June 2, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Government of Canada to the following:WHEREAS:The government has promised to ban the export of thermal coal from and through Canada as swiftly as possible, and no later than 2030;The need to act as swiftly as possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the leading cause of the climate crisis, is clearer than ever with the world likely to breach 1.5 degrees of warming by 2027; andCoal power plants produce more greenhouse gas emissions and subsequent warming than any other single source, and that Canada continues to mine and export thermal coal overseas.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the Government of Canada to put in place a total ban of thermal coal exports by 2024.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTAt the Conference of the Parties (COP26), the Government of Canada announced its intention to ban thermal coal exports by 2030. This makes Canada the first country in the world to make this commitment to address climate change.Canada has taken action to curb harmful coal emissions. Through the Pan Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, the Government has amended the 2012 coal-fired electricity greenhouse gas regulations to accelerate the phase-out of conventional coal-fired electricity in Canada by 2030. The Government of Canada also released a policy statement in June 2021 indicating that the Government considers that future thermal coal mining projects are likely to cause unacceptable environmental effects within federal jurisdiction and are not aligned with Canada’s domestic and international climate change commitments.Before the commitment to ban thermal coal exports was announced, it was forecasted that many thermal coal mines in Canada would stop operating in the lead-up to 2030 since they primarily supplied the domestic electricity market.Canada is also co-leading the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA), alongside the United Kingdom. With over 120 members, the PPCA is the world's leading coalition of public and private sector partners seeking to accelerate clean growth and climate protection through the rapid phase-out of unabated coal power. By joining the PPCA, members make a voluntary commitment to accelerate the phase-out of emissions from coal power.Additionally, at the 2023 G7 Ministers’ Meeting on Climate, Energy, and Environment, Canada, along with G7 countries, renewed calls on non-G7 countries to phase out unabated coal power generation consistent with a 1.5°C compatible future.The Government of Canada is advancing work toward an export ban and intends to engage and seek feedback from key partners and Indigenous peoples soon.   
BanCoalExports
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01731441-01731 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 4, 2023November 20, 2023June 7, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and international engagement.Canada is strongly committed to working with governments, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations, to promote inclusive and accountable governance around the world. Canada is consistently a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values.Canada’s leadership in the fight against arbitrary detention demonstrates its steadfast commitment to upholding universal human rights and the rules-based international order.The Government of Canada maintains an active and open dialogue with the Turkish, Pakistani and Bahraini Governments concerning human rights, as part of Canada’s commitment to promote democracy and uphold human rights and the rule of law globally.Global Affairs Canada officials met with the Turkish families that reported of their arrest in Pakistan and Bahrain and eventual detention in Türkiye, before moving to Canada. Global Affairs Canada officials have also received a submission from these families, requesting sanctions against specific Turkish officials in relation to their previous detention in Türkiye.Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order – sanctions are a key component of this approach. We also consider the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security, combatting corruption, and promoting respect for norms and values, including human rights. Canada carefully considers the bilateral consequences that any sanction measures could have. To that end, Global Affairs Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Wherever possible, Canada coordinates closely with likeminded allies, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, to maximize the effectiveness of sanctions.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01949441-01949 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 22, 2023January 29, 2024June 7, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and international engagement.Canada is strongly committed to working with governments, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations, to promote inclusive and accountable governance around the world. Canada is consistently a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values.Canada’s leadership in the fight against arbitrary detention demonstrates its steadfast commitment to upholding universal human rights and the rules-based international order.The Government of Canada maintains an active and open dialogue with the Turkish, Pakistani and Bahraini Governments concerning human rights, as part of Canada’s commitment to promote democracy and uphold human rights and the rule of law globally.Global Affairs Canada officials met with the Turkish families that reported of their arrest in Pakistan and Bahrain and eventual detention in Türkiye, before moving to Canada. Global Affairs Canada officials have also received a submission from these families, requesting sanctions against specific Turkish officials in relation to their previous detention in Türkiye.Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order – sanctions are a key component of this approach. We also consider the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security, combatting corruption, and promoting respect for norms and values, including human rights. Canada carefully considers the bilateral consequences that any sanction measures could have. To that end, Global Affairs Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Wherever possible, Canada coordinates closely with likeminded allies, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, to maximize the effectiveness of sanctions.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01728441-01728 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBOctober 4, 2023November 20, 2023June 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01587441-01587 (Foreign affairs)SameerZuberiPierrefonds—DollardLiberalQCJune 21, 2023August 16, 2023June 14, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The illegitimate military junta in Burma continues to indiscriminately kill, torture, rape, imprison and displace civilians, particularly through air strikes, causing an increased need for vital humanitarian assistance;
  • Communications infrastructure within the country, often used to warn civilians of imminent attack, has been destroyed by the military;
  • The state-owned Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprises (MOGE) accounts for the majority of funding the military receives to commit human rights atrocities; and
  • Canada has outlined its own obligation to aid in the Myanmar crisis as reported in "Canada's strategy to respond to the Rohingya and Myanmar crises (2021 to 2024)" as well our commitment under the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) principle.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to:
  • Call on the military junta in Burma to immediately cease all executions, atrocities and human rights abuses against civilians;
  • Increase humanitarian aid into Burma, especially via local civil society organizations working cross-border from neighbouring countries, to more adequately address the needs of vulnerable communities;
  • Provide the technological and logistical support for communication infrastructure to establish early-warning systems and air defence systems to warn and protect civilians from aerial attacks, to save lives and prevent human rights abuses;
  • Call on insurance companies to stop providing insurance cover for deliveries of aviation fuel to Burma;
  • Impose sanctions against MOGE, including blocking direct and indirect oil and gas purchases that support the Burmese regime;
  • Swiftly implement the objectives set out in the aforementioned strategy and uphold our international obligation of R2P;
  • Refuse to engage or recognize the junta's State Administration Council (SAC) in any regional or international fora;
  • Promote ongoing dialogue among pro-democracy groups and diaspora groups, with a view to helping the Burmese people to develop an inclusive democracy with full recognition and representation of all ethnic minority communities, including Rohingya; and
  • Provide assistance to Burma's politicians and citizens to support the development of a federal democratic system and power sharing that would provide a solution for the country of multiethnic people who have been living together before the country could be called Burma.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has unequivocally condemned the February 2021 military coup against the democratically-elected government of Myanmar, and supports the people of Myanmar and their democratic aspirations in the face of brutality and egregious international human rights and humanitarian law violations. Canada continues to call for the cessation of violence and armed conflict; the release of all who are unjustly detained; immediate and unrestricted humanitarian access; and a halt on sales and transfer of arms, military equipment and technical support, which fuel the conflict and undermine stability in the country and the region. Canada is concerned by a growing humanitarian crisis, democratic and economic reversals, reports of egregious human rights and humanitarian law violations, and the potential for growing instability and insecurity in Myanmar, with implications for the region and diminished prospects for the safe, voluntary and dignified return for Rohingya currently in Bangladesh. Canada condemns escalating attacks against civilians, including airstrikes of populated and civilian areas with heavy weaponry, and the arbitrary detention, and deaths of civilians, all of which have deepened the humanitarian crisis.Canada is also concerned by the politicization of the judiciary and the precipitous decline in human rights protections and media freedoms. The erosion of the right to free, fair and impartial trials, and the resumption of capital punishment after a 30-year de-facto moratorium is of particular concern. Canada opposes the death penalty at all times, everywhere. Canada, along with international partners, condemned the execution of pro-democracy opposition leaders and supporters in 2022, underscoring that these actions exemplify the regime’s efforts to silence political opposition and exemplify blatant disregard for the upholding of human rights and the rule of law.Canada supports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) and its resolute efforts to address this crisis through the ASEAN Five-Point-Consensus, while remaining increasingly concerned by lack of progress on this agreement’s implementation in the face of the regime’s intransigence. Full and timely implementation of the Five-Point-Consensus remains critical as is ASEAN’s continued downgrading of Myanmar representation at ASEAN high-level meetings and fora.Responding to the interlinked Myanmar and Rohingya crises remains a priority for Canada. On June 20, 2022, Canada announced the second phase of its Strategy to respond to the Myanmar and Rohingya crises, dedicating $288.3 million over three years (2021-2024) to address the medium- and longer-term needs and human rights of Rohingya refugees and other conflict-affected populations in Myanmar. Of this amount, $83 million supports development programming in Myanmar; $145 million for development programming for Rohingya and host communities in Bangladesh; and $24 million for Peace and Stabilization Operations programming. The Strategy supports at-risk and affected populations in Myanmar and Bangladesh, particularly Rohingya refugees, internally displaced persons, and impacted host communities; intensifies efforts to advance an inclusive and sustainable peace in Myanmar; supports efforts to advance a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Myanmar, including engagement with pro-democracy stakeholders; and, increases pressure on malign actors, including through continued pursuit of accountability for human rights violations and targeted sanctions efforts.While ensuring that no funding or support is going to the regime, Canada continues to provide development and humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable, working through UN and civil society organizations, including local networks and alliance-based partners. Canada continues to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance for crisis-affected populations, in accordance with needs on the ground. For example, in 2022, Canada has contributed $10.3 million in immediate humanitarian assistance to address the needs of crisis-affected people in Myanmar, including support to the Rohingya population. Canada has also contributed $15.3 million in humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh, to help address the needs of Rohingya refugees. More recently, on June 1st, 2023 Canada announced $4 million in additional humanitarian assistance funding in Myanmar, and $1 million in funding for Bangladesh in response to Cyclone Mocha. Cross-border in Bangladesh, Canada continues to play a leading role in marshalling the response to the refugee crisis, leveraging a strong position on accountability and credibility as a top international donor.Canada has a legacy of support for democracy and federalism globally and in Myanmar, continuing to support the democratic aspirations of the Myanmar people and those who work peacefully to advance an inclusive democratic future. Canada engages with the range of pro-democracy stakeholders advancing and modeling a democratic peaceful and inclusive vision for Myanmar, including with high-level engagement such as the recent meeting between Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and a senior appointed representative of the National Unity Government of Myanmar. Canada is a steadfast supporter of the need to address the root causes in Myanmar that led to the violent expulsion of Rohingya refugees to Bangladesh, the coup, and decades of conflict with ethnic minority armed groups. The Government of Canada’s current Strategy and commitments are centred on the meaningful participation and diverse representation, including Rohingya, women and youth.Canada prioritizes ending impunity and ensuring accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations in Myanmar and justice for survivors, including Rohingya. Canada does this through support to the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), and our announced intention to intervene, with the Netherlands, in The Gambia’s case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. Canada strongly supported the historic United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution 2669 – Security Council Demands Immediate End of Violence in Myanmar, Urges Restraint, Release of Arbitrary Detained Prisoners (December 2022), and co-sponsored the United Nations Human Rights Council resolution A/HRC/52/L.19 - Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar (April 2023). At the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Prosecutor’s investigation into allegations of forced deportation as a crime against humanity has presented an opportunity for accountability, although Canada continues to call for the UNSC to refer the situation to the ICC, so that the commission of all serious international crimes under the Rome Statute can be investigated.Canada, in close coordination with international partners, has imposed seven rounds of sanctions since the coup as part of Canada’s commitment to support democracy and ending impunity in Myanmar, with the most recent on January 31, 2023. Canada’s sanctions are in direct response to the regime’s continued disregard for the human rights of the people of Myanmar and target senior members of the regime who are using their respective roles to abuse the rule of law and remove political opposition, thus contributing to a grave breach of international peace and the deteriorating security situation. Through these sanctions, Canada has also targeted arms and aviation fuel procurement, and was the first country to impose a prohibition on aviation fuel in respond to the regime’s continued targeting of civilians in violation of international law. Canada, alongside its international partners, will continue to respond to actions that constitute a grave breach of international peace and security, threaten stability in the region, and subvert the rights and dignity of Myanmar people. Canada will continue to monitor the situation, assessing the effectiveness of additional policy measures, taking further actions in coordination with our partners as the situation evolves.There is no immediate solution to this protracted crisis, and Canada acknowledges that an effective on-going response requires sustained effort, attention, commitment, and leadership on the part of Canada; the meaningful participation of Myanmar people, including Rohingya; and sustained coordination and engagement with key national, regional and international allies and partners. In this regard, we strongly welcome the petition and its calls for continued and strengthened engagement on the part of the Government of Canada.
Civil and human rightsForeign policyMyanmar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01664441-01664 (Taxation)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCSeptember 26, 2023November 9, 2023June 20, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • The Canada Revenue Agency does not recognize the separation of a couple if the two former partners maintain the same residential address, even if the two are otherwise financially independent of one another, which can affect benefit eligibility; and
  • In today's housing market, Canadians are being forced to be creative when it comes to finding adequate living arrangements, with some having no choice but to reside in their former partner's home.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call on the Minister of National Revenue to direct her department to modernize its definition of a common-law partnership to recognize that some former couples may remain at the same residence due to the high cost of housing.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandEligibility for tax measures and benefits delivered through the tax system, like the Canada Child Benefit and the Goods and Services Tax Credit, depends on different factors, including in many cases whether an individual is married, in a common-law relationship or separated/divorced. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), which is responsible for administering the Income Tax Act (ITA), including the definition of a common-law partner in the ITA, considers that it is possible for separated individuals to live separate and apart for income tax and benefit purposes, while still occupying the same residence. Whether individuals live separate and apart is a question of fact that is determined by the CRA on a case-by-case basis. 
HousingIncome taxSpouses
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01714441-01714 (Health)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONOctober 3, 2023November 20, 2023September 15, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The overdose crisis in Canada is a public health emergency;
  • More than 26,690 individuals have died of opioid-related deaths and there have been 29,228 opioid-related poisoning hospitalizations in Canada since 2016;
  • There is disproportionate representation of Indigenous people affected by the poisoning crisis; and
  • The Canadian Public Health Association, the Global Commission on Drug Policy, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations, have recommended drug decriminalization.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Declare a public health emergency due to overdose deaths in Canada;
  • Reframe the overdose crisis in Canada as a health issue rather than a criminal issue;
  • Take a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to the overdose crisis, by addressing issues of addiction, poverty, housing, health care, systemic racism, and economic inequality and instability;
  • Listen to and act on recommendations made by social workers, front-line workers, nurses, doctors, drug users, and individuals directly involved in the drug-using community; and
  • Decriminalize drugs in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Darren FisherThe toxic drug and overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. While there are a number of complex factors that contribute to the high rates of overdoses that we are seeing today, four out of every five deaths are caused by opioids that come from the illegal drug supply which has become increasingly more toxic and unpredictable. The cost of substance use-related harms is not limited to the loss of lives alone and, more broadly, impacts health, social well-being, and public safety.The Government of Canada takes this crisis very seriously and is committed to working together with all orders of government, Indigenous Peoples and communities, partners from law enforcement, criminal justice, health and social systems, and people with lived and living experience and other key stakeholders, to take urgent action and leverage every available tool to save lives and work towards an end to this national public health crisis.Provinces and territories have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. This includes the power to declare a public health emergency which allows a provincial or territorial government to access and exercise extraordinary powers in response to a significant increase in opioid-related deaths as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta in May 2017. More recently, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency in January 2022. In addition to provincial and territorial emergency declarations, some Indigenous communities have also declared emergencies in response to rising substance use-related harms and deaths.Invoking the federal Emergencies Act is intended to serve as a tool of last resort to ensure the safety and security of Canadians in cases of temporary, critical national emergencies that cannot be addressed with existing federal, provincial or territorial laws. As such, the Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving substance use-related deaths and harms.The Government of Canada has publicly recognized the overdose crisis is a public health crisis. Canada is committed to continued action using the broad range of powers at its disposal and to take steps to end overdose deaths and substance-use related harms. Canada’s approach to addressing the overdose crisis and substance use-related harms is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada and keep our communities safe. Recognizing the need for comprehensive approaches to save lives, our government supports a full range of integrated, evidence-based services and supports, including improving access to treatment and harm reduction; increasing awareness, prevention and stigma reduction activities; further building the evidence base; and strengthening enforcement to address illegal drug production and trafficking.Since 2017, the federal government has made commitments of more than $1 billion and has taken significant action to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. This includes a Budget 2023 commitment of $359.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $5.7 million ongoing, to support a renewed CDSS which will continue to guide the government's work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians by :
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
These investments have made a difference in reducing overdose deaths and harms. For example, through the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP), Health Canada has provided over $500 million to support more than 380 community-based projects focused on innovative treatment, harm reduction, prevention and stigma reduction activities. More than $26 million of this funding was dedicated to expanding Naloxone awareness, training and distribution across Canada. We also  invested $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction. In addition, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches for greater access to pharmaceutical-grade alternatives to the toxic illegal drug supply – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of June 2023, Health Canada has supported 31 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through SUAP representing total funding commitments of over $100 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.These investments have also improved access to treatment. For example, provinces and territories have used federal investments provided through Budget 2018 for the Emergency Treatment Fund to expand existing treatment approaches such as services to support youth with substance use disorder, withdrawal management services appropriate for people who use methamphetamine, Rapid Access Addictions Medicine clinics, and access to opioid dependence treatments, and culturally-appropriate care for Indigenous communities. Funds have also been used to implement innovative approaches to treatment, including ‘wrap-around’ care and the development of telehealth infrastructure to connect clients in remote and rural settings.In addition to these investments, the Government of Canada has supported the expansion of supervised consumption services (SCS) across Canada and also proactively issued exemptions that allow provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Since January 2016, the number of federally approved SCS has grown from one to 40. Since 2017, they have received over 4.3 million visits, responded to almost 50,000 overdoses, and made 257,000 referrals to health and social services [as of October 2023].We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment and safer supply programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder; as well facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and,  
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
We will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to respond to this crisis and to keep communities safe. Our government works closely with domestic and international partners to address the toxic illegal drug supply that is driving substance use harms and overdose deaths. We continue to equip border agents with the tools necessary to intercept controlled substances. For example, we have made it harder to access chemicals used to make fentanyl by scheduling them under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and have also amended legislation to allow border officers to open mail of any weight, in order to stop drugs like fentanyl and carfentanil from entering Canada illegally through the mail system. Our government also works with private sector partners to address money laundering of the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking in an effort to dismantle the organized crime groups involved in the supply of these toxic illegal drugs.With respect to the call for immediate collaboration with provinces and territories, the Government of Canada continues to lead efforts to facilitate opportunities for collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, community-based organizations, and other partners and stakeholders to reduce the harms associated with substance use and support efforts to provide a full range of culturally appropriate, evidence-based, and trauma-informed health and social services and supports to meet the diverse needs of people who use drugs.On February 7, 2023, the Government of Canada announced it will increase health funding to provinces and territories by nearly $200 billion over 10 years, in order to improve Canada’s health care system. This investment includes $25 billion for shared health priorities, including increasing access to mental health and substance use services and supports. These commitments are in addition to existing bilateral agreements with provinces and territories for health priorities, including mental health and substance use, that were put in place in 2017. These investments will set the foundation for long-term, integrated and sustained health care system change that builds on existing, targeted actions to address mental health and substance use challenges.We have also established federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the FPT Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the FPT Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. In addition, discussions are held with provinces and territories at the Deputy Minister and Ministerial level through meetings of the Conference of Deputy Ministers of Health and the Federal, Provincial, Territorial Health Minister’s Meetings.To inform the federal approach, our government also regularly consults with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. Health Canada established the People with Lived and Living Experience Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We recognize that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments so that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.With respect to safer supply, a number of researchers in academic institutions across Canada are studying this emerging approach, contributing to the evidence base that can inform decision-making at local, provincial and federal levels. Safer supply builds on the evidence from medication-assisted approaches to the treatment of substance use disorder, with safer supply services having a number of unique goals and approaches that need to be assessed and evaluated on their own merits.The evidence base around safer supply is still developing, but is growing. Existing studies and evaluations of safer supply programs are showing some promising early outcomes, including:
  • reduced emergency department visits and hospitalizations; and
  • client reports of reductions in overdoses and illegal drug use, reduced engagement in criminalized activities, access to health and social services, improved trust in primary care providers among clients who face barriers to care, and other quality of life improvements.
Health Canada is supporting several studies of safer supply. This includes a preliminary assessment of safer supply pilot projects in Ontario, British Columbia and New Brunswick. The federal government, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), is also supporting a study being conducted by a research team from the Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse. This four-year evaluation research project focuses on program implementation and the short-term health outcomes of 11 of the government funded safer supply pilot projects. The final results of this study are expected in 2025. Additionally, CIHR has awarded $2 million to the University of Victoria to support a four-year study evaluating the safer supply initiatives in British Columbia in partnership with Indigenous leaders, Elders and system partners.Our government is committed to working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose. Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments encourage police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the CDSA to reflect the Government’s public-health-focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada directing prosecutors that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for the personal possession of drugs, except where public safety concerns arise.In addition, in May 2022, at the request of the Province of British Columbia,  a time-limited exemption was granted under the CDSA so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for the personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, individuals will be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they can also receive assistance to connect with those services. This exemption,  which is in effect from January 31, 2023, to January 31, 2026, is part of a much broader strategy British Columbia and this Government are taking to help people who use drugs access supports and services, rather than face criminal charges. This time-limited exemption is being supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes and inform implementation.Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The items above are some examples of concrete actions taken by the federal government to address the overdose crisis, please visit the following website for a comprehensive list of all the actions taken to date.The Government of Canada remains committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to this tragic and complex public health crisis to help reduce harms and save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01904441-01904 (Health)MelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapConservativeBCNovember 7, 2023January 29, 2024September 26, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada and the Minister of HealthWhereas: Health Canada is proposing to significantly change natural health product (NHPs) regulations; We rely on NHPS, which include basic everyday products such as supplements, toothpaste, vitamins, probiotics, and mineral SPF, as part of our proactive healthcare;If we don't act immediately, consumer prices will rise significantly, and consumer choice will decline drastically, when inflation is at an all-time high and access to healthcare is at an all-time low;Health Canada recently proposed new and significant fees to import, manufacture, and sell NHPs at the same time they are implementing new labelling laws;This is unfair, unrealistic, and so costly to industry that it will force many small to medium-sized businesses to shut down Canadian operations;The burden of these costs for those that can afford the changes will be passed down to the consumer, and these are not changes or fees Canadians can afford;Increasing fees and additional labelling does not promote safety for taking NHPs, it makes products more expensive; andIn fact, this overregulation will force consumers to seek out products online which could lead people purchasing non-compliant, unregulated NHPs from outside of Canada.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Health to work with the industry to embrace modern labelling and adjust Health Canada's proposed cost recovery rates to accurately reflect the size and scope of the industry; and that new regulatory changes should only be implemented once the Self-Care Framework is adjusted and backlogs are cleared, operations run efficiently, and there are policies and procedures in place to ensure the stable operations continue.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandHealth Canada recognizes that natural health products (NHPs) are important to Canadians to help support and maintain their health and is committed to supporting access to natural health products that are safe and of high quality.While NHPs are generally lower risk products, that does not mean they are without risk, especially if products are contaminated, or used improperly.In 2021, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development completed an audit of Health Canada’s NHP program and found both strengths and areas for improvement. Health Canada committed to undertaking a number of initiatives to improve the oversight of these products.In an effort to make natural health products safer for consumers and support Canadians in making informed choices, Health Canada recently introduced two important regulatory and legislative changes:
  • In July 2022, after extensive consultation and feedback from stakeholders, Health Canada introduced new regulatory requirements to make natural health product labels easier for Canadians to read and understand. This includes, for example, increased font size and improved colour contrast.
  • In June 2023,  Parliament passed legislation enabling Health Canada to take more action if a serious risk to health is identified with a natural health product. This legislation allows Health Canada to order recalls or add warnings to labels, if necessary, which the Department could not do before.
Presently, NHPs are the only line of health products where the regulatory activities are fully funded by Canadian taxpayers.Health Canada knows that many NHP companies are small businesses and is committed to supporting them. The Department is considering measures to help alleviate the impact of fees on businesses.  This includes fee reductions of 25% to 50% and a full waiver of pre-market evaluation fees for small businesses marketing their first product.Health Canada is actively reviewing thousands of comments received on its fee proposal, including those relating to the proposed fee reductions for small businesses, as part of an open and transparent consultation process with Canadians and businesses. At this time,  Health Canada is considering how best to adjust the  proposed approach to address concerns raised prior to further engagement with stakeholders.Ultimately, this initiative is about ensuring Canadians have access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality, while supporting small businesses through this process.
Natural health products
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2023441-01774441-01774 (Foreign affairs)Hon.DavidMcGuintyOttawa SouthLiberalONOctober 18, 2023December 1, 2023October 3, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS
  • The United Kingdom (UK) is the only OECD country to discriminate based on country of residence for state pension indexation. UK state pension recipients in many countries enjoy annual indexation, while recipients in others receive an amount which is "frozen" at the same level as when it is first received - i.e. a pension which is never indexed to provide an annual cost of living increase;
  • This policy is arbitrarily applied. For example, the 127,000 UK state pension recipients in Canada are "frozen", while the 128,000 recipients in the USA are "unfrozen" and receive annual indexation. Other "unfrozen" countries include Turkey, Israel, The Philippines, and all countries in the European Union;
  • In contrast, the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is indexed for inflation wherever the recipient lives in the world;
  • Over 91% of "frozen" pensioners live in Commonwealth Countries. Canada is a Founding Member of the Commonwealth, and both the Canadian and Commonwealth Charters of Rights are committed to equality and non-discrimination;
  • This policy is estimated to cost Canada around $490 million each year, and results in many Canadian pensioners living in poverty;
  • The UK has repeatedly rejected requests from Canada over the years for a new Social Security Agreement covering pension indexation. In the past three years the UK has snubbed seven such requests, and shows no indication of changing this stance going forward; and
  • A protocol on Social Security Coordination, guaranteeing pension indexation, was agreed by the UK within the post-Brexit UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement. Canada and the UK are currently negotiating a Trade Agreement. Canada has raised pension indexation twice in these talks, only to be immediately dismissed by the UK.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, request the Government of Canada to ensure that the current Canada-UK trade negotiations result in the "unfreezing" of UK state pensions paid to Canadian recipients.
Response by the Minister of Labour and SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Terry SheehanUnder UK law, UK State Pensions are paid anywhere in the world. For many UK pensioners living in countries outside the UK, including in Canada, pensions are not adjusted for increases in the cost of living. Pensions are paid at the same rate as when pensioners became entitled, or the date they left the UK if they were already pensioners.Over the years, the Government of Canada has sought to address this issue with the UK, including by proposing that the two countries negotiate a comprehensive social security agreement (SSA) that would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. To date, the UK has maintained its long-standing position that it cannot consider the indexation of UK pensions paid into Canada.The UK policy of non-indexation is codified in UK domestic law. A bilateral agreement with Canada is not required if the UK chooses to pay indexed pensions into Canada.In 2020, the British Secretariat of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Frozen British Pensions launched an inquiry regarding the impact of the UK Government’s approach to UK State Pensions paid to UK pensioners living abroad. The final report was released in December 2020. The Government of Canada presented a submission on the issue regarding the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada, for the APPG’s consideration. The submission is consistent with Canada’s position of support for UK pensioners living in Canada.In November 2020, Employment and Social Development Canada officials wrote to the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions, seeking their interest in concluding a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK. UK officials declined the request, but noted they would continue to consider this matter carefully.In March 2021, motions were presented in both the House of Commons in Canada and the UK regarding the UK’s non-indexation policy, urging the UK to negotiate a SSA with Canada that would allow for the indexation of pensions. This showcases the continued support to resolve this long-standing issue.In June 2021, the Minister of Seniors, in her capacity as the Minister responsible for concluding SSAs on behalf of the Government of Canada, sent a letter to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions, to formally request the conclusion of a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK, which would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. No response was received from the UK Government.In April 2022, the Minister of Seniors met with the British High Commissioner to Canada, to reiterate Canada’s longstanding position that UK pensioners who live in Canada should be recognized for the contributions they have made to society and should be treated equally, regardless of where they live. The British High Commissioner re-confirmed that the UK Government had no plans to change its current policy.In June and October 2022, the Minister of Seniors wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions to reiterate Canada’s request to conclude a comprehensive bilateral SSA that would provide for the eligibility of benefits and the payment of indexed UK pensions. The UK Minister for Pensions and Financial Inclusion responded to the letter of June 2022, re-confirming that the UK Government had no plans to change its current policy. No response was received from the UK Government to the letter of October 2022.In April 2023, the Minister of Labour, met with the UK Minister for Employment. The Minister of Labour raised the issue of the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada. The UK Minister for Employment noted the concern of the Minister, however, he re-confirmed that the UK Government has no plans to change its current policy.Also in April 2023, the Minister of Seniors together with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade, requesting her assistance in encouraging the UK government to resolve this issue. To date, no response has been received from the UK Government.Negotiations towards a comprehensive Canada-UK Free Trade Agreement are focused on advancing specific trade-related issues. Canada’s negotiating objectives were tabled in Parliament in 2022 and were informed by extensive public consultations across Canada.The Government of Canada will continue to raise this issue with the UK through various channels, where appropriate.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantUnder UK law, UK State Pensions are paid anywhere in the world. For many UK pensioners living in countries outside the UK, including in Canada, pensions are not adjusted for increases in the cost of living. Pensions are paid at the same rate as when pensioners became entitled, or the date they left the UK if they were already pensioners.Over the years, the Government of Canada has sought to address this issue with the UK, including by proposing that the two countries negotiate a comprehensive social security agreement (SSA) that would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. To date, the UK has maintained its long-standing position that it cannot consider the indexation of UK pensions paid into Canada.The UK policy of non-indexation is codified in UK domestic law. A bilateral agreement with Canada is not required if the UK chooses to pay indexed pensions into Canada.In 2020, the British Secretariat of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Frozen British Pensions launched an inquiry regarding the impact of the UK Government’s approach to UK State Pensions paid to UK pensioners living abroad. The final report was released in December 2020. The Government of Canada presented a submission on the issue regarding the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada, for the APPG’s consideration. The submission is consistent with Canada’s position of support for UK pensioners living in Canada.In November 2020, Employment and Social Development Canada officials wrote to the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions, seeking their interest in concluding a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK. UK officials declined the request, but noted they would continue to consider this matter carefully.In March 2021, motions were presented in both the House of Commons in Canada and the UK regarding the UK’s non-indexation policy, urging the UK to negotiate a SSA with Canada that would allow for the indexation of pensions. This showcases the continued support to resolve this long-standing issue.In June 2021, the Minister of Seniors, in her capacity as the Minister responsible for concluding SSAs on behalf of the Government of Canada, sent a letter to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions, to formally request the conclusion of a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK, which would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. No response was received from the UK Government.In April 2022, the Minister of Seniors met with the British High Commissioner to Canada, to reiterate Canada’s longstanding position that UK pensioners who live in Canada should be recognized for the contributions they have made to society and should be treated equally, regardless of where they live. The British High Commissioner re-confirmed that the UK Government had no plans to change its current policy.In June and October 2022, the Minister of Seniors wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions to reiterate Canada’s request to conclude a comprehensive bilateral SSA that would provide for the eligibility of benefits and the payment of indexed UK pensions. The UK Minister for Pensions and Financial Inclusion responded to the letter of June 2022, re-confirming that the UK Government had no plans to change its current policy. No response was received from the UK Government to the letter of October 2022.In April 2023, the Minister of Labour, met with the UK Minister for Employment. The Minister of Labour raised the issue of the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada. The UK Minister for Employment noted the concern of the Minister, however, he re-confirmed that the UK Government has no plans to change its current policy.Also in April 2023, the Minister of Seniors together with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade, requesting her assistance in encouraging the UK government to resolve this issue. To date, no response has been received from the UK Government.Negotiations towards a comprehensive Canada-UK Free Trade Agreement are focused on advancing specific trade-related issues. Canada’s negotiating objectives were tabled in Parliament in 2022 and were informed by extensive public consultations across Canada.The Government of Canada will continue to raise this issue with the UK through various channels, where appropriate.
International relationsPension indexationReciprocal social security agreementsUnited Kingdom
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01905441-01905 (Taxation)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 7, 2023December 12, 2023October 11, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Liberals imposed carbon tax will continue to drive up the cost of home heating for Canadians;
  • In Canada heating your home in the winter isn't a luxury - it's a necessity;
  • After eight years of this Liberal government Canadians now must decide whether to heat their home or put food on their table;
  • Never before in Canadian history have Canadians paid more in taxes than under this Liberal government; and
  • Inflation has caused massive increases to costs faced by non-profits and registered charities and further compounded by the carbon tax.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Cancel the tripling of the carbon tax on home heating;2) Ensure no new taxes on Canadians;3) Ensure that Canadians are being put first: their family, their paycheques, their home, and their future.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandSince taking office in 2015, the government's focus has been investing in the middle class, growing the economy, strengthening Canada's social safety net, and making life more affordable for Canadians. Key measures include:
  • Reversed the Conservative policy and restored the age of eligibility for Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) to 65, from 67, preventing 100,000 seniors aged 65 and 66 from plunging into severe poverty each year.
  • Increasing support for families and low-income workers through programs such as the Canada Child Benefit and the Canada Workers Benefit, which have helped lift over 1 million Canadians out of poverty since 2015.
  • Across Canada reduction of fees for regulated childcare of 50 percent on average, with six provinces and territories reducing childcare fees to $10 a day or less by April 2, 2023. In Saskatchewan, this amounts to an estimated savings of up to $6,900 per child.
  • Increasing the GIS top up benefit for low-income single seniors, enhancing the GIS earnings exemption, and increasing Old Age Security for approximately 3.3 million Canadians in July 2022.
  • Reducing taxes for the middle class from 22 percent to 20.5 percent, while raising taxes on the wealthiest Canadians. 
  • Increasing the basic personal amount – i.e., the basic amount of income that Canadians can earn before paying federal income tax – to $15,000, while phasing out the benefits of the increased basic personal amount for wealthy individuals.
In addition, the Government of Canada has provided targeted inflation relief to Canadians struggling with the impacts of global inflation, which has made the cost of living a real challenge. This includes direct, tax-free payments of up to $1,300 per child over two years to eligible families to cover dental expenses for their children under 12 and a doubling of the GST credit in the fall of 2022.Furthermore, the new onetime Grocery Rebate provided targeted inflation relief for 11 million low- and modest-income Canadians and families who need it most, with up to an extra $467 for eligible couples with two children; and up to an extra $234 for single Canadians without children. The Grocery Rebate was delivered to eligible Canadians on July 5, 2023, by direct deposit or cheque through the Canada Revenue Agency.Climate action is critical to Canada’s long-term health and economic prosperity. Pollution pricing is widely recognized as effective and the most efficient means of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which is why the Government of Canada has made sure that it is no longer free to pollute in Canada.The federal price on pollution is revenue neutral for the government of Canada; the direct proceeds from the federal pollution pricing system remain in the province or territory where they are collected. Put simply, every dollar collected from the pollution price is returned.In provinces where the federal fuel charge applies, 90 percent of direct proceeds are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments. Most households receive more in CAI payments than the costs they face from the federal price on pollution, with low- and middle-income households benefitting the most, on average. The other 10 percent is used to support small and medium sized businesses and Indigenous groups. Proceeds relating specifically to the use of natural gas and propane by farmers are returned directly to farmers via a refundable tax credit.This year, through quarterly payments, a family of four will receive: $1,544 in Alberta, $1,056 in Manitoba, $976 in Ontario, and $1,360 in Saskatchewan. Starting in July 2023 when federal carbon pricing begins to apply in Atlantic Canada, a family of four will receive 3 quarterly payments totaling: $984 in Newfoundland and Labrador, $744 in Nova Scotia, $720 in Price Edward Island, and $552 in New Brunswick (double payment in October). Residents of small and rural communities are entitled to a 10 per cent supplement beyond the base amount. Future years will contain 4 quarterly payments.On October 26, 2023, the government announced its intent to double the CAI rural top-up, from 10 to 20 percent, with increased payments to rural residents starting in April 2024. It also announced a proposed temporary, three-year pause of the fuel charge on deliveries of light fuel oil exclusively for use in providing heat to a home or building until the end of 2026-27.The government will continue to take action to support the middle class and make life more affordable for Canadians.
Carbon tax
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01835441-01835 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBOctober 26, 2023December 11, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01820441-01820 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBOctober 25, 2023December 11, 2023October 16, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 4, 2023441-01790441-01790 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBOctober 20, 2023December 4, 2023October 17, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 6, 2023441-01796441-01796 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBOctober 23, 2023December 6, 2023October 17, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01942441-01942 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBNovember 21, 2023December 12, 2023October 23, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Nurses' incentives should be provided to all nurses to better create healthy relationships and a healthy workplace;
  • The government must do better in recognizing health care credentials from qualified professionals who are internationally trained and educated;
  • The government must do better and implement better strategies and incentives to attract and retain our healthcare workers in Manitoba;
  • New and experienced nurses and healthcare professionals are leaving our province and considering opportunities offered in other provinces that provide lucrative incentives and benefits to their healthcare professionals;
  • Many Manitoba seniors are on capped income and cannot afford their prescribed medications; and
  • Nurses are overworked due to high workloads.
We, the undersigned residents of Manitoba, call upon the House of Commons to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to:1. Take nurses recruitment and retention seriously to help resolve the healthcare crisis;2. Ensure everyone who is contributing to Manitoba through taxes and our economy is eligible for Manitoba healthcare;3. Review the nurses' workload and incentive program to include all nurses, regardless of position status and type; and4. Reconsider some of the changes that have been made over the last few years and turn the health care facility into a facility that is capable of being, so the residents of Manitoba, particularly the communities of Tyndall Park, Maples, Burrows, Kildonan and even Lakeside have a place to go.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandHealthcare is a shared responsibility between the Government of Canada and the provinces and territories. While the federal government provides financial support to the provinces and territories for healthcare services, the responsibility for matters related to management of the health care system and health workforces falls within provincial and territorial jurisdiction. As part of their responsibility to administer and deliver healthcare services, provinces and territories establish training curricula and manage licensure, and regulate healthcare professionals through arms-length regulatory bodies, such as professional colleges and associations.At the same time, the federal government acknowledges that it has a key leadership role to play in supporting solutions to the challenges facing health systems across the country, including those related to Canada’s health workforce. We remain committed to continuing to work with provincial and territorial governments to protect and strengthen the publicly funded health care system.Budget 2023 delivered nearly $200 billion to reduce backlogs, expand access to family health services and ensure provinces and territories can provide the high quality and timely health care Canadians expect and deserve. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding for provinces and territories to improve health care services for Canadians. This funding also includes $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in four areas of shared priority: family health services; health workers and backlogs; mental health and substance use; and a modernized health system. Additionally, provinces and territories are being asked to streamline foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals, and to advance labour mobility.On October 12, 2023 federal, provincial, and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health issued a public statement reaffirming their commitment to supporting Canada’s health workforce so our health workers are able to provide high-quality, accessible and effective health services for people living in Canada. In particular, FPT governments committed to concrete actions focusing on retention, domestic education supply and demand, foreign credential recognition and ethical recruitment, labour mobility, and health workforce data and planning. These commitments included undertaking credential processes overseas in order to improve processing of licensure of international physicians and nurses within 90 days and support for a Nursing Retention Toolkit developed by the federally-appointed Chief Nursing Officer, Dr. Leigh Chapman, in consultation with Canada’s nursing community. The toolkit highlights retention initiatives that employers or health authorities can implement to support their nursing workforce.The details on the Ministers commitments can be found here: Federal, provincial and territorial statement on supporting Canada’s health workforce.
Health care systemManitobaNurses
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01985441-01985 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBDecember 7, 2023January 29, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Nurses' incentives should be provided to all nurses to better create healthy relationships and a healthy workplace;
  • The government must do better in recognizing health care credentials from qualified professionals who are internationally trained and educated;
  • The government must do better and implement better strategies and incentives to attract and retain our healthcare workers in Manitoba;
  • New and experienced nurses and healthcare professionals are leaving our province and considering opportunities offered in other provinces that provide lucrative incentives and benefits to their healthcare professionals;
  • Many Manitoba seniors are on capped income and cannot afford their prescribed medications; and
  • Nurses are overworked due to high workloads.
We, the undersigned residents of Manitoba, call upon the House of Commons to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to:1. Take nurses recruitment and retention seriously to help resolve the healthcare crisis;2. Ensure everyone who is contributing to Manitoba through taxes and our economy is eligible for Manitoba healthcare;3. Review the nurses' workload and incentive program to include all nurses, regardless of position status and type; and4. Reconsider some of the changes that have been made over the last few years and turn the health care facility into a facility that is capable of being, so the residents of Manitoba, particularly the communities of Tyndall Park, Maples, Burrows, Kildonan and even Lakeside have a place to go.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandHealthcare is a shared responsibility between the Government of Canada and the provinces and territories. While the federal government provides financial support to the provinces and territories for healthcare services, the responsibility for matters related to management of the health care system and health workforces falls within provincial and territorial jurisdiction. As part of their responsibility to administer and deliver healthcare services, provinces and territories establish training curricula and manage licensure, and regulate healthcare professionals through arms-length regulatory bodies, such as professional colleges and associations.At the same time, the federal government acknowledges that it has a key leadership role to play in supporting solutions to the challenges facing health systems across the country, including those related to Canada’s health workforce. We remain committed to continuing to work with provincial and territorial governments to protect and strengthen the publicly funded health care system.Budget 2023 delivered nearly $200 billion to reduce backlogs, expand access to family health services and ensure provinces and territories can provide the high quality and timely health care Canadians expect and deserve. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding for provinces and territories to improve health care services for Canadians. This funding also includes $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in four areas of shared priority: family health services; health workers and backlogs; mental health and substance use; and a modernized health system. Additionally, provinces and territories are being asked to streamline foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals, and to advance labour mobility.On October 12, 2023 federal, provincial, and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health issued a public statement reaffirming their commitment to supporting Canada’s health workforce so our health workers are able to provide high-quality, accessible and effective health services for people living in Canada. In particular, FPT governments committed to concrete actions focusing on retention, domestic education supply and demand, foreign credential recognition and ethical recruitment, labour mobility, and health workforce data and planning. These commitments included undertaking credential processes overseas in order to improve processing of licensure of international physicians and nurses within 90 days and support for a Nursing Retention Toolkit developed by the federally-appointed Chief Nursing Officer, Dr. Leigh Chapman, in consultation with Canada’s nursing community. The toolkit highlights retention initiatives that employers or health authorities can implement to support their nursing workforce.The details on the Ministers commitments can be found here: Federal, provincial and territorial statement on supporting Canada’s health workforce.
Health care systemManitobaNurses
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 27, 2024441-02225441-02225 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 27, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Nurses' incentives should be provided to all nurses to better create healthy relationships and a healthy workplace;
  • The government must do better in recognizing health care credentials from qualified professionals who are internationally trained and educated;
  • The government must do better and implement better strategies and incentives to attract and retain our healthcare workers in Manitoba;
  • New and experienced nurses and healthcare professionals are leaving our province and considering opportunities offered in other provinces that provide lucrative incentives and benefits to their healthcare professionals;
  • Many Manitoba seniors are on capped income and cannot afford their prescribed medications; and
  • Nurses are overworked due to high workloads.
We, the undersigned residents of Manitoba, call upon the House of Commons to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to:1. Take nurses recruitment and retention seriously to help resolve the healthcare crisis;2. Ensure everyone who is contributing to Manitoba through taxes and our economy is eligible for Manitoba healthcare;3. Review the nurses' workload and incentive program to include all nurses, regardless of position status and type; and4. Reconsider some of the changes that have been made over the last few years and turn the health care facility into a facility that is capable of being, so the residents of Manitoba, particularly the communities of Tyndall Park, Maples, Burrows, Kildonan and even Lakeside have a place to go.
Health care systemManitobaNurses
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2024441-02092441-02092 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 6, 2024March 21, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Nurses' incentives should be provided to all nurses to better create healthy relationships and a healthy workplace;
  • The government must do better in recognizing health care credentials from qualified professionals who are internationally trained and educated;
  • The government must do better and implement better strategies and incentives to attract and retain our healthcare workers in Manitoba;
  • New and experienced nurses and healthcare professionals are leaving our province and considering opportunities offered in other provinces that provide lucrative incentives and benefits to their healthcare professionals;
  • Many Manitoba seniors are on capped income and cannot afford their prescribed medications; and
  • Nurses are overworked due to high workloads.
We, the undersigned residents of Manitoba, call upon the House of Commons to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to:1. Take nurses recruitment and retention seriously to help resolve the healthcare crisis;2. Ensure everyone who is contributing to Manitoba through taxes and our economy is eligible for Manitoba healthcare;3. Review the nurses' workload and incentive program to include all nurses, regardless of position status and type; and4. Reconsider some of the changes that have been made over the last few years and turn the health care facility into a facility that is capable of being, so the residents of Manitoba, particularly the communities of Tyndall Park, Maples, Burrows, Kildonan and even Lakeside have a place to go.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Yasir NaqviHealthcare is a shared responsibility between the Government of Canada and the provinces and territories. While the federal government provides financial support to the provinces and territories for healthcare services, the responsibility for matters related to management of the health care system and health workforces falls within provincial and territorial jurisdiction. As part of their responsibility to administer and deliver healthcare services, provinces and territories establish training curricula and manage licensure, and regulate healthcare professionals through arms-length regulatory bodies, such as professional colleges and associations.At the same time, the federal government acknowledges that it has a key leadership role to play in supporting solutions to the challenges facing health systems across the country, including those related to Canada’s health workforce. We remain committed to continuing to work with provincial and territorial governments to protect and strengthen the publicly funded health care system.Budget 2023 delivered nearly $200 billion to reduce backlogs, expand access to family health services and ensure provinces and territories can provide the high quality and timely health care Canadians expect and deserve. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding for provinces and territories to improve health care services for Canadians. This funding also includes $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in four areas of shared priority: family health services; health workers and backlogs; mental health and substance use; and a modernized health system. Additionally, provinces and territories are being asked to streamline foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals, and to advance labour mobility.On October 12, 2023 federal, provincial, and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health issued a public statement reaffirming their commitment to supporting Canada’s health workforce so our health workers are able to provide high-quality, accessible and effective health services for people living in Canada. In particular, FPT governments committed to concrete actions focusing on retention, domestic education supply and demand, foreign credential recognition and ethical recruitment, labour mobility, and health workforce data and planning. These commitments included undertaking credential processes overseas in order to improve processing of licensure of international physicians and nurses within 90 days and support for a Nursing Retention Toolkit developed by the federally-appointed Chief Nursing Officer, Dr.Leigh Chapman, in consultation with Canada’s nursing community. The toolkit highlights retention initiatives that employers or health authorities can implement to support their nursing workforce.The details on the Ministers commitments can be found here: Federal, provincial and territorial statement on supporting Canada’s health workforce.
Health care systemManitobaNurses
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 14, 2023441-01856441-01856 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBOctober 31, 2023December 14, 2023October 23, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Nurses' incentives should be provided to all nurses to better create healthy relationships and a healthy workplace;
  • The government must do better in recognizing health care credentials from qualified professionals who are internationally trained and educated;
  • The government must do better and implement better strategies and incentives to attract and retain our healthcare workers in Manitoba;
  • New and experienced nurses and healthcare professionals are leaving our province and considering opportunities offered in other provinces that provide lucrative incentives and benefits to their healthcare professionals;
  • Many Manitoba seniors are on capped income and cannot afford their prescribed medications; and
  • Nurses are overworked due to high workloads.
We, the undersigned residents of Manitoba, call upon the House of Commons to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to:1. Take nurses recruitment and retention seriously to help resolve the healthcare crisis;2. Ensure everyone who is contributing to Manitoba through taxes and our economy is eligible for Manitoba healthcare;3. Review the nurses' workload and incentive program to include all nurses, regardless of position status and type; and4. Reconsider some of the changes that have been made over the last few years and turn the health care facility into a facility that is capable of being, so the residents of Manitoba, particularly the communities of Tyndall Park, Maples, Burrows, Kildonan and even Lakeside have a place to go.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandHealthcare is a shared responsibility between the Government of Canada and the provinces and territories. While the federal government provides financial support to the provinces and territories for healthcare services, the responsibility for matters related to management of the health care system and health workforces falls within provincial and territorial jurisdiction. As part of their responsibility to administer and deliver healthcare services, provinces and territories establish training curricula and manage licensure, and regulate healthcare professionals through arms-length regulatory bodies, such as professional colleges and associations.At the same time, the federal government acknowledges that it has a key leadership role to play in supporting solutions to the challenges facing health systems across the country, including those related to Canada’s health workforce. We remain committed to continuing to work with provincial and territorial governments to protect and strengthen the publicly funded health care system.Budget 2023 delivered nearly $200 billion to reduce backlogs, expand access to family health services and ensure provinces and territories can provide the high quality and timely health care Canadians expect and deserve. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding for provinces and territories to improve health care services for Canadians. This funding also includes $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in four areas of shared priority: family health services; health workers and backlogs; mental health and substance use; and a modernized health system. Additionally, provinces and territories are being asked to streamline foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals, and to advance labour mobility.On October 12, 2023 federal, provincial, and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health issued a public statement reaffirming their commitment to supporting Canada’s health workforce so our health workers are able to provide high-quality, accessible and effective health services for people living in Canada. In particular, FPT governments committed to concrete actions focusing on retention, domestic education supply and demand, foreign credential recognition and ethical recruitment, labour mobility, and health workforce data and planning. These commitments included undertaking credential processes overseas in order to improve processing of licensure of international physicians and nurses within 90 days and support for a Nursing Retention Toolkit developed by the federally-appointed Chief Nursing Officer, Dr. Leigh Chapman, in consultation with Canada’s nursing community. The toolkit highlights retention initiatives that employers or health authorities can implement to support their nursing workforce.The details on the Ministers commitments can be found here: Federal, provincial and territorial statement on supporting Canada’s health workforce.
Health care systemManitobaNurses
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01812441-01812 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023October 23, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Nurses' incentives should be provided to all nurses to better create healthy relationships and a healthy workplace;
  • The government must do better in recognizing health care credentials from qualified professionals who are internationally trained and educated;
  • The government must do better and implement better strategies and incentives to attract and retain our healthcare workers in Manitoba;
  • New and experienced nurses and healthcare professionals are leaving our province and considering opportunities offered in other provinces that provide lucrative incentives and benefits to their healthcare professionals;
  • Many Manitoba seniors are on capped income and cannot afford their prescribed medications; and
  • Nurses are overworked due to high workloads.
We, the undersigned residents of Manitoba, call upon the House of Commons to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to:1. Take nurses recruitment and retention seriously to help resolve the healthcare crisis;2. Ensure everyone who is contributing to Manitoba through taxes and our economy is eligible for Manitoba healthcare;3. Review the nurses' workload and incentive program to include all nurses, regardless of position status and type; and4. Reconsider some of the changes that have been made over the last few years and turn the health care facility into a facility that is capable of being, so the residents of Manitoba, particularly the communities of Tyndall Park, Maples, Burrows, Kildonan and even Lakeside have a place to go.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandHealthcare is a shared responsibility between the Government of Canada and the provinces and territories. While the federal government provides financial support to the provinces and territories for healthcare services, the responsibility for matters related to management of the health care system and health workforces falls within provincial and territorial jurisdiction. As part of their responsibility to administer and deliver healthcare services, provinces and territories establish training curricula and manage licensure, and regulate healthcare professionals through arms-length regulatory bodies, such as professional colleges and associations.At the same time, the federal government acknowledges that it has a key leadership role to play in supporting solutions to the challenges facing health systems across the country, including those related to Canada’s health workforce. We remain committed to continuing to work with provincial and territorial governments to protect and strengthen the publicly funded health care system.Budget 2023 delivered nearly $200 billion to reduce backlogs, expand access to family health services and ensure provinces and territories can provide the high quality and timely health care Canadians expect and deserve. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding for provinces and territories to improve health care services for Canadians. This funding also includes $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in four areas of shared priority: family health services; health workers and backlogs; mental health and substance use; and a modernized health system. Additionally, provinces and territories are being asked to streamline foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals, and to advance labour mobility.On October 12, 2023 federal, provincial, and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health issued a public statement reaffirming their commitment to supporting Canada’s health workforce so our health workers are able to provide high-quality, accessible and effective health services for people living in Canada. In particular, FPT governments committed to concrete actions focusing on retention, domestic education supply and demand, foreign credential recognition and ethical recruitment, labour mobility, and health workforce data and planning. These commitments included undertaking credential processes overseas in order to improve processing of licensure of international physicians and nurses within 90 days and support for a Nursing Retention Toolkit developed by the federally-appointed Chief Nursing Officer, Dr. Leigh Chapman, in consultation with Canada’s nursing community. The toolkit highlights retention initiatives that employers or health authorities can implement to support their nursing workforce.The details on the Ministers commitments can be found here: Federal, provincial and territorial statement on supporting Canada’s health workforce.
Health care systemManitobaNurses
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02105441-02105 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024October 27, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Nurses' incentives should be provided to all nurses to better create healthy relationships and a healthy workplace;
  • The government must do better in recognizing health care credentials from qualified professionals who are internationally trained and educated;
  • The government must do better and implement better strategies and incentives to attract and retain our healthcare workers in Manitoba;
  • New and experienced nurses and healthcare professionals are leaving our province and considering opportunities offered in other provinces that provide lucrative incentives and benefits to their healthcare professionals;
  • Many Manitoba seniors are on capped income and cannot afford their prescribed medications; and
  • Nurses are overworked due to high workloads.
We, the undersigned residents of Manitoba, call upon the House of Commons to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to:1. Take nurses recruitment and retention seriously to help resolve the healthcare crisis;2. Ensure everyone who is contributing to Manitoba through taxes and our economy is eligible for Manitoba healthcare;3. Review the nurses' workload and incentive program to include all nurses, regardless of position status and type; and4. Reconsider some of the changes that have been made over the last few years and turn the health care facility into a facility that is capable of being, so the residents of Manitoba, particularly the communities of Tyndall Park, Maples, Burrows, Kildonan and even Lakeside have a place to go.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Yasir NaqviHealthcare is a shared responsibility between the Government of Canada and the provinces and territories. While the federal government provides financial support to the provinces and territories for healthcare services, the responsibility for matters related to management of the health care system and health workforces falls within provincial and territorial jurisdiction. As part of their responsibility to administer and deliver healthcare services, provinces and territories establish training curricula and manage licensure, and regulate healthcare professionals through arms-length regulatory bodies, such as professional colleges and associations.At the same time, the federal government acknowledges that it has a key leadership role to play in supporting solutions to the challenges facing health systems across the country, including those related to Canada’s health workforce. We remain committed to continuing to work with provincial and territorial governments to protect and strengthen the publicly funded health care system.Budget 2023 delivered nearly $200 billion to reduce backlogs, expand access to family health services and ensure provinces and territories can provide the high quality and timely health care Canadians expect and deserve. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding for provinces and territories to improve health care services for Canadians. This funding also includes $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in four areas of shared priority: family health services; health workers and backlogs; mental health and substance use; and a modernized health system. Additionally, provinces and territories are being asked to streamline foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals, and to advance labour mobility.On October 12, 2023 federal, provincial, and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health issued a public statement reaffirming their commitment to supporting Canada’s health workforce so our health workers are able to provide high-quality, accessible and effective health services for people living in Canada. In particular, FPT governments committed to concrete actions focusing on retention, domestic education supply and demand, foreign credential recognition and ethical recruitment, labour mobility, and health workforce data and planning. These commitments included undertaking credential processes overseas in order to improve processing of licensure of international physicians and nurses within 90 days and support for a Nursing Retention Toolkit developed by the federally-appointed Chief Nursing Officer, Dr. Leigh Chapman, in consultation with Canada’s nursing community. The toolkit highlights retention initiatives that employers or health authorities can implement to support their nursing workforce.The details on the Ministers commitments can be found here: Federal, provincial and territorial statement on supporting Canada's health workforce.
Health care systemManitobaNurses
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01878441-01878 (Health)Hon.Judy A.SgroHumber River—Black CreekLiberalONNovember 6, 2023January 29, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the House of Commons WHEREAS:
  • Over 8 million people are suffering from eye diseases and 1.2 million live with vision loss or blindness;
  • 75% of vision losses cases, if diagnosed and treated early, are preventable;
  • Historically, the federal government has lacked any substantive framework on the matter of public eye health care and the current structure has created huge gaps in access to care;
  • Systematic tackling of the issue will improve lives of millions of Canadians; and
  • It is necessary to establish a proper coordination framework between federal and provincial governments, increase capacity, provide sufficient funding for eye care, make vision care more affordable and inclusive, raise awareness of the importance of the vision care.
THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt bill C-284, an Act to establish a national strategy for eye care, as soon as possible.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandVision care is beneficial through all stages of life. Healthy vision is important for young children’s development, and helps to make many careers and activities of daily life easier. As people age, maintaining good eye health can reduce the odds of facing blindness and vision loss, as well as improve outcomes associated with eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma.Vision loss in Canada can be caused by several common eye diseases, including macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. According to a report from Deloitte and the Canadian Council of the Blind, more than eight million Canadians had a common eye disease in 2019 and were at serious risk of losing their vision. More than 1 in 10 older adults had some degree of vision loss.Regular eye exams can identify early issues with eye health and also screen for a range of health conditions including high blood pressures, diabetes, macular degeneration, and various blood diseases.While provinces and territories have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services, the federal health portfolio is leading and supporting a range of activities related to eye disease prevention and treatment.The Government of Canada is committed to investing in our health care system and supporting provinces and territories in delivering better health care for Canadians. The 2023 Federal Budget committed close to $200 billion over ten years in health funding to provinces and territories. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding, $25 billion of which has been designated to address four shared health priorities:
  • expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • modernizing the health care system with standardized health data and digital tools.
This funding builds on the 2017 investment of $11 billion over ten years to help provinces and territories improve home and community care, and mental health, and $3 billion to strengthen long-term care from Budget 2021. Addressing health workforce shortages and surgical backlogs, including for vision-related surgeries, is a key part of the Government of Canada’s plan for the health care system. Budget 2023 included a $2 billion one-time top-up to provinces and territories to address urgent pressures in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and pediatric hospitals.Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits Program also provides vision care to eligible First Nations and Inuit beneficiaries where not otherwise covered by other plans or programs. The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program’s vision care coverage includes eye exams, corrective eyewear, and eyeglass repairs.The Government of Canada recognizes that supporting research is key to a fulsome understanding of eye health, including how to prevent vision loss. Since 2018, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research have invested approximately $61 million in vision-related research. This research spans the spectrum of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various vision-related conditions.Health Canada also regulates drugs and medical devices, including those intended to be used for eye diseases and conditions. Where warranted, Health Canada has existing expedited review pathways that can be used to facilitate quicker access to health products that treat, prevent, or diagnose serious or life-threatening disease and conditions. Health Canada is also working closely with key stakeholders to identify and mitigate critical shortages of ophthalmic products when they occur.Finally, the Government of Canada is committed to the prevention and treatment of eye disease, and fully supports Canada’s public health system, which provides coverage for any vision care service that must be performed in a hospital.Private Member’s Bill C-284 will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-284, An Act to establish a national strategy for eye careNational Strategy for Eye CareVision health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01877441-01877 (Health)Hon.Judy A.SgroHumber River—Black CreekLiberalONNovember 6, 2023January 29, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the House of Commons WHEREAS:
  • Over 8 million people are suffering from eye diseases and 1.2 million live with vision loss or blindness;
  • 75% of vision losses cases, if diagnosed and treated early, are preventable;
  • Historically, the federal government has lacked any substantive framework on the matter of public eye health care and the current structure has created huge gaps in access to care;
  • Systematic tackling of the issue will improve lives of millions of Canadians; and
  • It is necessary to establish a proper coordination framework between federal and provincial governments, increase capacity, provide sufficient funding for eye care, make vision care more affordable and inclusive, raise awareness of the importance of the vision care.
THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt bill C-284, an Act to establish a national strategy for eye care, as soon as possible.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandVision care is beneficial through all stages of life. Healthy vision is important for young children’s development, and helps to make many careers and activities of daily life easier. As people age, maintaining good eye health can reduce the odds of facing blindness and vision loss, as well as improve outcomes associated with eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma.Vision loss in Canada can be caused by several common eye diseases, including macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. According to a report from Deloitte and the Canadian Council of the Blind, more than eight million Canadians had a common eye disease in 2019 and were at serious risk of losing their vision. More than 1 in 10 older adults had some degree of vision loss.Regular eye exams can identify early issues with eye health and also screen for a range of health conditions including high blood pressures, diabetes, macular degeneration, and various blood diseases.While provinces and territories have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services, the federal health portfolio is leading and supporting a range of activities related to eye disease prevention and treatment.The Government of Canada is committed to investing in our health care system and supporting provinces and territories in delivering better health care for Canadians. The 2023 Federal Budget committed close to $200 billion over ten years in health funding to provinces and territories. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding, $25 billion of which has been designated to address four shared health priorities:
  • expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • modernizing the health care system with standardized health data and digital tools.
This funding builds on the 2017 investment of $11 billion over ten years to help provinces and territories improve home and community care, and mental health, and $3 billion to strengthen long-term care from Budget 2021. Addressing health workforce shortages and surgical backlogs, including for vision-related surgeries, is a key part of the Government of Canada’s plan for the health care system. Budget 2023 included a $2 billion one-time top-up to provinces and territories to address urgent pressures in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and pediatric hospitals.Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits Program also provides vision care to eligible First Nations and Inuit beneficiaries where not otherwise covered by other plans or programs. The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program’s vision care coverage includes eye exams, corrective eyewear, and eyeglass repairs.The Government of Canada recognizes that supporting research is key to a fulsome understanding of eye health, including how to prevent vision loss. Since 2018, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research have invested approximately $61 million in vision-related research. This research spans the spectrum of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various vision-related conditions.Health Canada also regulates drugs and medical devices, including those intended to be used for eye diseases and conditions. Where warranted, Health Canada has existing expedited review pathways that can be used to facilitate quicker access to health products that treat, prevent, or diagnose serious or life-threatening disease and conditions. Health Canada is also working closely with key stakeholders to identify and mitigate critical shortages of ophthalmic products when they occur.Finally, the Government of Canada is committed to the prevention and treatment of eye disease, and fully supports Canada’s public health system, which provides coverage for any vision care service that must be performed in a hospital.Private Member’s Bill C-284 will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-284, An Act to establish a national strategy for eye careNational Strategy for Eye CareVision health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01927441-01927 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCNovember 20, 2023January 29, 2024October 27, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Section 43 of the Criminal Code of Canada exempts every "schoolteacher, parent or person standing in place of a parent" from criminal liability for "using force by way of correction toward a pupil or child" in their care;
  • This outdated Criminal Code provision does not align with modern standards of conduct for teachers and prevents parents from seeking justice when their children are abused by teachers; and
  • Parents should not have to worry about their children being abused by teachers, who are meant to care for and educate them.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to remove schoolteachers' exemption from criminal liability for using corrective force against a child in their care under Section 43 of the Criminal Code of Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyOur Government is committed to protecting children from all forms of violence. The Criminal Code contains general criminal offences to protect all persons from violence, including children. It is a crime to assault or threaten to assault someone, no matter their age. Assault is broadly defined in Canadian criminal law to include any intentional use of force against another person without their consent. This includes any non-consensual touching, directly or indirectly, of a person regardless of the amount of force used. Slapping, shaking, punching, pinching, kicking, or any other form of unwanted touching are all examples of actions that constitute an assault. It is also a crime to unlawfully confine a person against their will, for example by restraining them or restricting their movement, either physically or by controlling conduct, such as through fear, intimidation or other similar psychological means.Further, the abuse of a child in the commission of an offence is an aggravating factor for sentencing purposes. This means that the crime is treated more seriously and can result in a longer sentence.Section 43 of the Criminal Code provides a defense to teachers, parents and caregivers against criminal charges for certain conduct but is not intended to protect against abusive and harmful conduct.The Supreme Court of Canada (SCC), in its 2004 decision Canadian Foundation for Children, Youth and the Law v. Canada (Attorney General), found that section 43 is consistent with the Charter and provided guidelines that limit the scope of the defence. Specifically, the SCC clarified that teachers cannot use corporal punishment under any circumstances (i.e., physical force to discipline student behaviour). Teachers may only apply reasonable force to maintain order or enforce school rules (e.g., removing a child from a classroom).Our Government will continue to monitor Bill S-251, An Act to repeal section 43 of the Criminal Code (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s call to action number 6), and Bill C-273, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (Corinne’s Quest and the protection of children), which propose to repeal section 43 of the Criminal Code, as they make their way through the legislative process.
Child abuseCorporal punishmentCriminal Code
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01800441-01800 (Environment)MarcSerréNickel BeltLiberalONOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023October 23, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has warned us repeatedly that rising temperatures over the next two decades, if left unabated, will bring "widespread devastation and extreme weather";
  • The summer of 2023 was the hottest three months globally on record, and Canada is experienced the most severe wildfire season on record;
  • In the past decade, over 85% of gases that are warming our planet, greenhouse gases, come from burning fossil fuels;
  • Canada's oil and gas sector is our fastest and largest sector of greenhouse gas emissions; and
  • In 2021, the federal government committed to "cap and cut emissions from the oil and gas sector to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050."
WE, the undersigned residents of Canada, call on the federal government to move forward immediately with a bold emissions caps for the oil and gas sector that are comprehensive in scope and realistic in achieving an interim and science-based target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Government of Canada is taking action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the oil and gas sector at a pace and scale necessary to achieve Canada’s 2030 and 2050 climate targets in a way that allows the sector to compete in a global economy that is transitioning to net-zero. Addressing emissions from the oil and gas sector—the largest source of GHG emissions in Canada—is critical to the achievement of Canada’s climate goals and international commitments, and vital to the sustainability and competitiveness of Canada’s energy industry.In March 2022, the Government of Canada published the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, which outlines the measures Canada is taking to reach its Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement, a 40-45% economy-wide reduction in GHG emissions below 2005 levels by 2030. A key element of the Government’s plan is to cap and cut GHG emissions from the oil and gas sector at a pace and scale necessary to contribute to Canada’s 2030 climate goals and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This Government of Canada commitment was first announced in November 2021 at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow.Capping and cutting oil and gas sector emissions will send a clear, long-term policy signal to invest in clean technology, low-emissions energy assets, and supporting infrastructure while avoiding investments in oil and gas production that do not incorporate best-in-class technologies and infrastructure. The oil and gas emissions cap will build on other measures in place to reduce emissions from the sector, including carbon pollution pricing and methane regulations. The Government plans to release further details before the end of 2023.
Greenhouse gasesOil and gas
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01960441-01960 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKNovember 27, 2023January 29, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023 and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Codeto ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01872441-01872 (Health)Hon.Judy A.SgroHumber River—Black CreekLiberalONNovember 6, 2023January 29, 2024October 25, 2023Petition to the House of Commons WHEREAS:
  • Over 8 million people are suffering from eye diseases and 1.2 million live with vision loss or blindness;
  • 75% of vision losses cases, if diagnosed and treated early, are preventable;
  • Historically, the federal government has lacked any substantive framework on the matter of public eye health care and the current structure has created huge gaps in access to care;
  • Systematic tackling of the issue will improve lives of millions of Canadians; and
  • It is necessary to establish a proper coordination framework between federal and provincial governments, increase capacity, provide sufficient funding for eye care, make vision care more affordable and inclusive, raise awareness of the importance of the vision care.
THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt bill C-284, an Act to establish a national strategy for eye care, as soon as possible.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandVision care is beneficial through all stages of life. Healthy vision is important for young children’s development, and helps to make many careers and activities of daily life easier. As people age, maintaining good eye health can reduce the odds of facing blindness and vision loss, as well as improve outcomes associated with eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma.Vision loss in Canada can be caused by several common eye diseases, including macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. According to a report from Deloitte and the Canadian Council of the Blind, more than eight million Canadians had a common eye disease in 2019 and were at serious risk of losing their vision. More than 1 in 10 older adults had some degree of vision loss.Regular eye exams can identify early issues with eye health and also screen for a range of health conditions including high blood pressures, diabetes, macular degeneration, and various blood diseases.While provinces and territories have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services, the federal health portfolio is leading and supporting a range of activities related to eye disease prevention and treatment.The Government of Canada is committed to investing in our health care system and supporting provinces and territories in delivering better health care for Canadians. The 2023 Federal Budget committed close to $200 billion over ten years in health funding to provinces and territories. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding, $25 billion of which has been designated to address four shared health priorities:
  • expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • modernizing the health care system with standardized health data and digital tools.
This funding builds on the 2017 investment of $11 billion over ten years to help provinces and territories improve home and community care, and mental health, and $3 billion to strengthen long-term care from Budget 2021. Addressing health workforce shortages and surgical backlogs, including for vision-related surgeries, is a key part of the Government of Canada’s plan for the health care system. Budget 2023 included a $2 billion one-time top-up to provinces and territories to address urgent pressures in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and pediatric hospitals.Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits Program also provides vision care to eligible First Nations and Inuit beneficiaries where not otherwise covered by other plans or programs. The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program’s vision care coverage includes eye exams, corrective eyewear, and eyeglass repairs.The Government of Canada recognizes that supporting research is key to a fulsome understanding of eye health, including how to prevent vision loss. Since 2018, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research have invested approximately $61 million in vision-related research. This research spans the spectrum of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various vision-related conditions.Health Canada also regulates drugs and medical devices, including those intended to be used for eye diseases and conditions. Where warranted, Health Canada has existing expedited review pathways that can be used to facilitate quicker access to health products that treat, prevent, or diagnose serious or life-threatening disease and conditions. Health Canada is also working closely with key stakeholders to identify and mitigate critical shortages of ophthalmic products when they occur.Finally, the Government of Canada is committed to the prevention and treatment of eye disease, and fully supports Canada’s public health system, which provides coverage for any vision care service that must be performed in a hospital.Private Member’s Bill C-284 will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-284, An Act to establish a national strategy for eye careNational Strategy for Eye CareVision health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01993441-01993 (Environment)RachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverNDPBCDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024October 30, 2023Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTSince 2015, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions rapidly by 2030, achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (2030 ERP) in Parliament. The 2030 ERP is the Government’s most recent, major step to take action to meet Canada’s climate objectives, and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Net Zero Advisory Body.Investments in Indigenous-led climate action are critical to enabling Indigenous peoples to advance their self-determined priorities. Since the release of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy in December 2020, the federal government has committed more than $2 billion in targeted investments to support Indigenous communities, including initiatives to facilitate the transition to clean energy, advance nature-based solutions, build new or retrofit green community buildings, promote resilience and adaptation, and undertake major disaster mitigation projects, among others. These investments supplement more than $425 million over 12 years committed under the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF), as well as funding provided to Indigenous proponents through general climate programs for which they are eligible recipients. In the 2030 ERP and Budget 2022, the Government of Canada committed $29.6 million to co-develop and implement a model of climate partnership that empowers self-determined climate action; leverages the transition to a net-zero economy to support efforts toward self-determination and the alleviation of socio-economic inequalities; and supports the expression of Indigenous science and knowledge systems in national climate policy. The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the PCF and Canada’s strengthened climate plan. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a clean electricity standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of sustainable jobs and skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.Canada also contributes to emissions reduction in developing countries through its climate finance. Initiatives under Canada’s previous $2.65 billion climate finance commitment led to significant emissions reduced or avoided. In addition, our current $5.3 billion commitment (2021-2026) features Clean Energy Transition and Coal Phase-Out as a focus area.Under this focus area, Canada supports efforts to reduce GHG emissions in developing countries by investing in initiatives that phase out coal-powered emissions, foster equitable access to clean energy solutions, promote energy efficient technologies, and support the clean energy sector enabling environment in key coal-dependent regions. In line with this, Canada has recently dedicated $43 million to energy transition programming, including a $5 million contribution to the South East Asia Energy Transition Partnership, and an $8 million contribution to the International Energy Agency’s Clean Energy Transitions Programme. With G7 partners, Canada is also providing support to new Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETP) with countries such as South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam, including through its $1 billion commitment to the Climate Investment Funds Accelerating Coal Transitions Program among other sources of support. JETPs are a new model of international energy, climate, and economic assistance for emerging and developing countries to accelerate their transitions to cleaner, more climate resilient economies, while also including the perspectives and needs of workers and communities.This priority complements Canada’s leadership through the Powering Past Coal Alliance. This initiative, which Canada co-leads with the United Kingdom, works to increase global ambition on coal phase-out and supports developing countries by sharing expertise and best practices. Canada’s public climate finance also helps mobilize private capital, which is a key component of climate action, including for clean energy transition.      
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous low-carbon economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reduction targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the generational economic opportunities that a net zero emissions future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonization technology in the conventional energy sector.Budget 2023 makes transformative investments to build Canada’s clean economy, fight climate change, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and Canadian workers. This includes significant measures that will deliver cleaner and more affordable energy, support investment in our communities and the creation of good-paying, high-quality jobs, and ensure Canadian workers are able to produce and provide the goods and resources that Canadians and our global partners need. These investments are underpinned by a set of clear and predictable investment tax credits, low-cost strategic financing, and targeted investments and programming, where necessary, to respond to the unique needs of sectors or projects of national economic significance. Since 2016, the federal government has committed over $120 billion to clean growth and emissions reduction measures, including over $80 billion in investment tax credits.At COP26, Canada and other countries committed to phasing out international fossil fuel subsidies. Following this, the Government of Canada released direction for federal departments and agencies. Through ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada is ensuring federal investments abroad are aligned with domestic and international climate commitments, while refocusing investment towards low-carbon innovation, including in Canada’s growing clean industries.Domestically, the Government of Canada has committed to phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025. The Government of Canada took swift action, and in July 2023, Canada became one of the first countries in the world to meet this commitment well ahead of the 2025 deadline. The guidance document and assessment framework is being used by government departments to ensure all future programs and spending decisions are aligned with this commitment.Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan commits to reducing emissions from the oil and gas sector. As announced at COP28, the Government of Canada released a draft Regulatory Framework for an Oil and Gas Sector Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap in December 2023 to cap the oil and gas sector’s 2030 emissions at 35 to 38 percent below 2019 levels. This measure is a cap on pollution, and will incentivize innovation as the sector invests in maximum technically achievable decarbonization in order to achieve significant emission reductions by 2030 and get on a credible pathway to net-zero emissions by 2050.Canada’s  highly skilled and educated workforce, and comparative advantages in energy, critical minerals, and clean technology are helping Canadian industries and workers to seize the enormous economic opportunities in a net-zero future.  The Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero emissions future.  The interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, released in February 2023, lays out a comprehensive approach as part of Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth.This plan, drafted in consultation with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society, outlines the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, clean energy, low-carbon building products, carbon management technologies and small modular reactors, Canada is building a prosperous net-zero future that works for Canadians in every region. This includes significant opportunities in existing energy industries that are taking action to respond to global demand by lowering their emissions and enhance their long-term competitiveness.Skills training is a critical factor in ensuring that Canadian workers can seize the economic opportunities ahead, which is why the federal government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including as it relates to sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers seize new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced funding to establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and fund additional sustainable jobs training, among other things.As committed to in the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, the Government introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, in June 2023. The legislation proposes establishing a federal governance, engagement, and accountability framework to advance economic prosperity and ensure workers benefit from the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. The bill would also require the Government to:
  • establish a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide independent advice to Government on sustainable jobs measures;
  • create a Secretariat to lead the Government’s sustainable jobs approach; and
  • release a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years beginning in 2025.
These legislated mechanisms would guide and organize efforts to support workers and communities as Canada shifts to a low-carbon economy, ensuring equitable, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth across the country.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables (Regional Tables) are an important initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables are helping to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, in collaboration with Indigenous partners, and with the input of experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for implementing joint strategies to leverage energy and resource opportunities to realize each region of Canada’s comparative advantage in a net-zero future.To date, the federal government has jointly launched Regional Tables across the country, including with British Columbia, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the Northwest Territories and Yukon.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a low-carbon world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada is taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to fight climate change, while strengthening our economy by fostering the creation of sustainable jobs. This shift towards a low-carbon economy presents significant opportunities across existing and emerging sectors and will require the transformation of Canadian industries and the Canadian labour market. Ensuring Canada has a plan to advance a low-carbon economy and a workforce that can thrive in the low-carbon economy is fundamental to achieving our climate targets.On February 17, 2023, the Government of Canada released its interim Sustainable Jobs Plan 2023-2025, which included 10 concrete actions being taken to support the creation of sustainable jobs and help workers in every part of Canada. This interim plan is informed by over two years of consultations and conversations with provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, workers and unions, industry, environmental and civil society organizations and interested Canadians. This interim plan defines the federal government’s commitment to make progress on implementing the 10 key action areas, including establishing legislation that ensures ongoing engagement and accountability.As part of this Plan, on June 15, 2023, the Government of Canada introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, which aims to facilitate and promote the creation of sustainable jobs and support workers and communities in Canada as the world advances toward a net-zero future. It will lay out a framework for federal governance, accountability, and engagement that will help ensure a coherent and coordinated federal approach for implementing measures that support sustainable job creation. The bill completed second reading in October 2023, and is expected to continue through the legislative process throughout 2024.The Government of Canada has also been working to move forward on a path to a net-zero emissions economy for several years. For example, the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), which was announced in Budget 2021, is a contribution program that helps key sectors of the economy, including sectors contributing to the low-carbon economy, implement solutions to address their current and emerging workforce needs. The SWSP funds projects that can leverage a wide-range of activities, from developing labour market information, to developing training curriculum and tools, and implementing initiatives that support employers and workers, including members of equity-deserving groups.Budget 2022 announced the creation of a new Union-Led Advisory Table. It brings together labour leaders to provide advice on Government and Ministerial priorities on ways to help workers navigate the changing labour market.The 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced funding for the creation of a Sustainable Jobs Training Fund, also an action area under the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan. The Fund will support a series of training projects to help 15,000 workers across the country upgrade or gain new skills for jobs in the low-carbon economy. Addressing pressing skills needs and training gaps in areas of high demand will help ensure that Canada’s workforce is prepared to support 2050 climate targets, and that employers have the labour they need to meet demand and seize growth opportunities in the new low-carbon economy.In addition, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced funding for a new Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP) sustainable jobs stream under the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy. This stream will aim to fund projects that support unions in leading the development of green skills training for workers in the trades. It is expected that 20,000 apprentices and journeypersons would benefit from this investment.Finally, the Government also offers a broad suite of programming to support jobseekers and workers of all ages and from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds, as well as employers, unions and training providers. Many of these programs, created in consultation with stakeholders, are already helping to advance sustainable jobs. They include:•         The Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), a program that helps key sectors of the economy implement solutions to address their current and emerging workforce needs, recent investments of $145.9 million in nine projects that will help build talent for the green economy. Overall, the nine projects are expected to support over 24,000 Canadians and benefit approximately 2,100 employers across Canada.•         The Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, which provides funding to help pre-apprentices, apprentices, employers, unions, and other organizations and tradespeople participate in apprenticeships and succeed in skilled trades careers. This includes recent investments to develop green skills training for workers in the trades under the sustainable jobs initiative.•         The Skills and Partnership Fund, a project-based fund that supports partnerships between Indigenous organizations and industry employers to provide skills training for Indigenous peoples in priority sectors, which include industries that support more efficient use and alternative sources of energy and resources. Through this Fund, Indigenous people are being trained for current and emerging job opportunities in the green economy.•         The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), a horizontal initiative led by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and delivered in collaboration with 11 other federal departments, agencies and Crown Corporations. The YESS provides funding to organizations to deliver a range of activities that help youth overcome barriers to employment and develop a broad range of skills and knowledge to participate in the current and future labour market. Some YESS programs such as Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Science Horizons Youth Internship Program, Natural Resources Canada’s Science and Technology Internship Program - Green Jobs, and Parks Canada’s Young Canada Works Program focus on connecting young Canadians with careers in the sustainable jobs sector.•         The Foreign Credential Recognition Program, to support the labour market integration of skilled newcomers by funding projects that will make credential recognition processes faster and more efficient, and providing loans (up to $30,000), support services, and employment supports to help skilled newcomers acquire Canadian work experience, including within the low-carbon sector.Canada has a strong social safety net of which the Employment Insurance (EI) program is an important part. Millions of Canadians rely on it each year when they lose their jobs or need to step away from work for illness, childbirth, or taking care of a loved one. The Government continues to build an EI program that is responsive to all labour market conditions, and is accessible, adequate and financially sustainable.Canada also has a comprehensive pension system, the Old Age Security Program and the Canada Pension Plan for all Canadian workers, no matter what type of work they choose. The Old Age Security Program is quasi-universal, with benefits being paid to seniors 65 and over based on years of residence in Canada after age 18. Furthermore, recent studies and modelling suggest that one of the most significant challenges facing the low-carbon economy will not be a shortage of jobs, but instead an abundance of jobs with a shortage of skilled workers required to fill them. Assisting workers to acquire new skills to support continued employment in the low-carbon economy will be key to filling future needs.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01915441-01915 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBNovember 9, 2023December 12, 2023October 30, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01924441-01924 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBNovember 20, 2023December 12, 2023October 30, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action. 
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01943441-01943 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBNovember 22, 2023December 12, 2023October 30, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 15, 2023441-01958441-01958 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBNovember 27, 2023December 15, 2023October 25, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01868441-01868 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBNovember 2, 2023December 12, 2023October 30, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2024441-02080441-02080 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONFebruary 5, 2024March 20, 2024November 21, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the St. Thomas More Catholic School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01992441-01992 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024November 22, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01971441-01971 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONDecember 6, 2023January 29, 2024November 22, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Lord Strathcona Public School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01980441-01980 (Natural resources and energy)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABDecember 7, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Canadians are struggling in an unprecedented cost of living crisis;
  • This legislation aims to kill 170,000 direct Canadian jobs, will displace 450,000 direct and indirect jobs, and cause major disruptions to 2.7 million jobs across all provinces in the energy, manufacturing, construction, transportation, and agriculture sectors;
  • In Canada, the oil and gas sector is the top private sector in clean tech at 75% overall - more than all other sectors, combined, and in the development and commercialization of renewable and alternative energy and other fuels of the future;
  • The energy sector provides 10% of Canada's GDP, and pays over $26 billion in taxes to all levels of government every year, including $48 billion in 2022;
  • Natural Resource businesses, including oil and gas, are the most traded stocks and form the foundation of the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and this legislation will put Canadians' financial portfolios in jeopardy potentially risking millions of invested dollars;
  • Canada's energy self-sufficiency and security is increasingly threatened by the government's anti-energy agenda to expedite and recklessly phase out the oil and gas sectors with government-imposed mandates, penalties, policies, bans, and added costs, with no concrete roadmap on how to replace them;
  • Global oil and gas demand continues to increase, and we believe the last barrels of oil and cubic metre of natural gas used in the world should come from Canada;
  • Government-created uncertainty has already driven billions of investment, technology, and hundreds of thousands of jobs out of Canada and has already primarily and disproportionately hurt remote, rural, Indigenous and energy- and resource-based communities, provinces and regions;
  • The legislation will disproportionately impact blue collar and lower-income workers, which includes many Indigenous Canadians and visible minorities, who will face higher job disruptions and have more challenges finding new opportunities;
  • The legislation doesn't account for what and how many jobs will replace the ones their agenda will kill - or how the economic, fiscal, and technological contributions of the energy sector will be replaced in Canada, as well as affordable and accessible energy for all communities and regions, in cities and rural areas alike.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to cancel its divisive, targeted, anti-energy, anti-private sector and top down "Just Transition" central planning agenda that is neither just, fair nor equitable, and instead accelerate Canadian energy projects, infrastructure, technology, and exports, and greenlight green projects, by reducing duplicative red tape, costs, and permitting timelines, and support private-sector-led energy transformation instead of a government-forced transition.
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous low-carbon economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reduction targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the generational economic opportunities that a net zero emissions future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonization technology in the conventional energy sector.Budget 2023 makes transformative investments to build Canada’s clean economy, fight climate change, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and Canadian workers. This includes significant measures that will deliver cleaner and more affordable energy, support investment in our communities and the creation of good-paying, high-quality jobs, and ensure Canadian workers are able to produce and provide the goods and resources that Canadians and our global partners need. These investments are underpinned by a set of clear and predictable investment tax credits, low-cost strategic financing, and targeted investments and programming, where necessary, to respond to the unique needs of sectors or projects of national economic significance. Since 2016, the federal government has committed over $120 billion to clean growth and emissions reduction measures, including over $80 billion in investment tax credits.Canada’s highly skilled and educated workforce, and comparative advantages in energy, critical minerals, and clean technology are helping Canadian industries and workers to seize the enormous economic opportunities in a net-zero future. The Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero emissions future.  The interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, released in February 2023, lays out a comprehensive approach as part of Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth.This plan, drafted in consultation with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society, outlines the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, clean energy, low-carbon building products, carbon management technologies, and small modular reactors, Canada is building a prosperous net-zero future that works for Canadians in every region. This includes significant opportunities in existing energy industries that are taking action to respond to global demand by lowering their emissions and enhance their long-term competitiveness.Skills training is a critical factor in ensuring that Canadian workers can seize the economic opportunities ahead, which is why the federal government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including as it relates to sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers seize new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced funding to establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, among other things.As committed to in the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, the Government introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, in June 2023. The legislation proposes establishing a federal governance, engagement, and accountability framework to advance economic prosperity and ensure workers benefit from the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. The bill would also require the Government to:
  • establish a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide independent advice to Government on sustainable jobs measures;
  • create a Secretariat to lead the Government’s sustainable jobs approach; and
  • release a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years beginning in 2025.
These legislated mechanisms would guide and organize efforts to support workers and communities in building a net-zero economy, advancing economic prosperity across the country.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables (Regional Tables) are a key initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables are helping to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, in collaboration with Indigenous partners, and with the input of experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders.  The Regional Tables will form the basis for implementing joint strategies to leverage energy and resource opportunities to realize each region of Canada’s comparative advantage in a net-zero future.To date, the federal government has jointly launched Regional Tables across the country with British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the Northwest Territories and Yukon.The Government of Canada is working in partnership with workers, industries, and communities across Canada to take ambitious climate action while developing low-carbon industries that spur affordability, energy security, and economic prosperity in every sector and region.
C-50, An Act respecting accountability, transparency and engagement to support the creation of sustainable jobs for workers and economic growth in a net-zero economyEnergy transitionGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01978441-01978 (Justice)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABDecember 7, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • As the number of police-reported hate crimes targeting a specific religion continue to rise (increasing 67% from 2020 to 2021), there is a clear need to direct our full attention to this issue;
  • Just in 2021, hate crimes targeting the Jewish population rose 47%, the Muslim population 71%, and the Catholic population 260%;
  • Instances of hate motivated mischief towards properties used by religious and faith-based groups has continued to rise; however, the number of individuals charged for these crimes has remained unchanged;
  • Furthermore, our approach to hate crimes is informed by the above data curated by Statistics Canada; however, the data fails to accurately reflect the state of hate crimes in Canada;
  • A substantial portion of incidents go unreported, referred to by the Government of Canada as the "Dark Figure" of crime, which means that the issue of hate motivated crime is far larger than what the data represents; and
  • Despite this far-reaching problem, when proportionally compared to the increase in hate crimes, the number of individuals charged continues to shrink.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to fully investigate hate crimes and ensure crimes targeting religious groups and their places of worship result in appropriate criminal charges.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is on alert for and categorically condemns violence aimed at any community.The RCMP encourages that all hate crimes be reported to the  police of local jurisdiction. Such allegations would be subject to investigation by the police, including the RCMP where it is the police of jurisdiction. Subsequently, applicable actions under Canadian legislation will be taken to hold accountable all those responsible for such crimes.The RCMP has a national operational policy to assist investigators responding to hate-motivated crimes and strives to build trusting relationships with communities by collaborating on crime prevention initiatives that enhance community resilience and promote bias-free policing. The RCMP has also provided guidance and reference materials for frontline members relating to the recent increase in demonstrations and hate crimes.Along with the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, the RCMP co-chairs the national Hate Crimes Task Force, which was established in 2022 in recognition of the growing rate of hate crimes and incidents in Canada. Comprised of representatives from small, medium, large and First Nations police services from across the country, as well as Statistics Canada and the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General, the Task Force includes some of the country’s leading experts in the areas of investigation, community outreach and training. The group seeks to enhance the police response to hate crimes in Canada through the development of practical tools and solutions, including within the current context. Over the past two months, the Task Force has been sharing information and best practices, and collaborating on the development of aids to support the frontline response
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyOur Government has always firmly believed that there is no place in Canada for hate propaganda and hate crime, which includes those that target persons because of their religion. Our Government has been working to ensure Canada continues to be one of the most accepting countries in the world. All Canadians deserve to feel safe in their communities.Our Government is taking concrete steps to fight hate crime and hate speech, in all its forms. Some examples of these efforts include appointing Ms. Deborah Lyons as Canada’s new Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combating Antisemitism. She will continue leading efforts to combat antisemitism and preserve Holocaust remembrance in Canada and abroad. Moreover, our Government appointed Canada’s first Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia, Ms. Amira Elghawaby, to serve as a champion, advisor, and expert to the federal government in its efforts to counter Islamophobia, systemic racism, racial discrimination, and religious intolerance.Our Government has a responsibility to protect all Canadians from hate crimes, in particular by keeping community spaces safe, and that is a responsibility taken very seriously. One important tool is the Security Infrastructure Program (SIP), which helps community institutions fund the improvements they need to be safe. The Government of Canada is dedicating $5 million annually to the SIP to help protect communities from hate-motivated crime. On November 6, 2023, our Government announced an additional investment of $5 million to help Canadian communities at risk of hate-motivated crimes protect and strengthen the security of their community centres, places of worship and other institutions. A new temporary measure in the Security Infrastructure Program will cover new sites, such as office spaces and daycares, that are clearly linked to communities at-risk of hate-motivated crime, as well as costs associated with time-limited security guards.On November 17, 2023, the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, and the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with their provincial and territorial counterparts to discuss recent global events and their impacts in Canada. They shared best practices to ensure the safety of legal protests, as well as potential additional measures to address hate crimes. Our Government will continue to work collaboratively with its provincial and territorial partners to combat hate crime and keep Canadians safe.Canada has a strong legislative and policy framework in place to combat racial and religious discrimination, hate crime, and hate speech. The framework includes protections in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Canadian Human Rights Act, and non-discrimination legislation in every province and territory.The Criminal Code contains four hate propaganda offences, namely (1) advocating or promoting genocide against an identifiable group; (2) inciting hatred against an identifiable group by communicating, in a public place, statements that are likely to lead to a breach of the peace; (3) communicating statements, other than in private conversation, to willfully promote hatred against an identifiable group; and (4) willfully promoting antisemitism by denying, downplaying or condoning the Holocaust. “Identifiable group” is defined as any section of the public distinguished by colour, race, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or mental or physical disability.In addition, there are provisions in the Criminal Code to address hate crimes. These are crimes that are committed when motivated by hatred based on various grounds, such as race or religion. Paragraph 718.2(a)(i) of the Criminal Code requires judges to consider, as an aggravating circumstance in sentencing, any evidence that a crime was motivated by bias, prejudice or hate based on grounds including race, colour, religion, national or ethnic origin, language, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation or any other similar ground. It is also a specific crime in subsection 430(4.1) of the Criminal Code to vandalize or damage certain property, such as property primarily used for religious worship, or property such as educational institutions or residences for seniors that are primarily used by an “identifiable group”, as defined in the hate propaganda offences. Responsibility for investigating and prosecuting hate crimes in Canada falls primarily to the provinces.Finally, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada is continuing the work of his predecessor together with his colleagues, the Minister of Canadian Heritage and the Minister of Public Safety, to develop and introduce legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content. This legislation will protect Canadians and hold social media platforms and other online services accountable for the content they host.In addition, this legislation will strengthen the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal Code to be more effective in combatting online hate, and will reintroduce measures to strengthen hate speech provisions, including through the re-enactment of former section 13 of the Canadian Human Rights Act. Recognizing the pressing need for this legislation, Our Government is working diligently to introduce this bill as soon as possible.Canadians expect their Government to take action against hate speech and hate crimes. Our Government is committed to strengthening our legislative framework to combat hate and serious forms of harmful online content in the near future.
Freedom of conscience and religionHate crimesReligious buildings
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 27, 2024441-02226441-02226 (Democratic process)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONFebruary 27, 2024February 16, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned Canadian citizens, would like to draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • The need for electoral reform continues to be a fundamental issue for citizens of all political persuasions, yet politicians cannot agree on the best way forward;
  • This calls for a new approach to developing a citizens' consensus on electoral reform; and
  • Representative non-partisan citizens' assemblies provided with the necessary resources, expert support and sufficient time have demonstrated their ability to competently tackle the issue of electoral reform in the past while coming to a citizens' consensus.
THEREFORE, we, the undersigned Canadian citizens, call upon the House of Commons to:
  • Give citizens a voice on the subject of electoral reform and a right to make recommendations; and
  • Support Motion M-86 calling for a Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform.
Electoral reformNational Citizens' Assembly on Electoral ReformPublic consultation
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 22, 2024441-02273441-02273 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABMarch 22, 2024February 26, 2024Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:For over eight years, the Liberal government has put the privileges of criminals ahead of the rights of victims;Frequent parole hearings often revictimize and retraumatize the families of victims of murder;The Liberal government has failed to respond to the Bissonnette decision, disregarding the impact that this decision will have on the families of victims of some of Canada's most heinous murderers; andBill S-281, Brian's Bill, is a modest response to Bissonnette that puts victims first by preventing convicted murderers from applying for parole every year after serving their minimum sentence.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge Parliament to swiftly pass Brian's Bill.Conditional releaseS-281. An Act to amend the Corrections and Conditional Act (parole review)Victims of violence44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01996441-01996 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the North Addington Education Centre community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01995441-01995 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Catholic School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01983441-01983 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONDecember 7, 2023January 29, 2024November 30, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Enterprise Public School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 26, 2024441-02206441-02206 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBFebruary 26, 2024November 29, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01997441-01997 (Holidays and observances)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024December 11, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • The federally funded Canadian Human Rights Commission outrageously declared that Christmas is "discriminatory" and an example of "colonialist religious intolerance";
  • The free exercise of religion has been Canadian law since before Confederation, with the 1851 Freedom of Worship Act which protected "free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship, without discrimination or preference";
  • 92% of Canadians who are non-Christian say "no" to being offended by the greeting "Merry Christmas", according to a 2022 Leger poll; and
  • The same poll asked Canadians of all religions whether Christmas and other "religious" holidays should be struck from the country's official statutory holidays, for which 94% of respondents said "no."
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to denounce the Canadian Human Rights Commission's outrageous and out of touch position that Christmas is "discriminatory" and an example of "colonialist religious intolerance."
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada is a great place to live and call home for many reasons, one aspect of what makes Canada the country that it is, is the value we place on freedom and diversity. Canada is strong as a result of its diversity, and not despite of it.The Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA) prohibits discrimination on the basis of religion, including but not limited to, in the areas of goods, services, facilities or accommodation customarily available to the general public, commercial premises or residential accommodation, and employment.In addition, section 2(a) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (Charter) protects everyone’s freedom of conscience and religion. Section 15(1) of the Charter guarantees equality to all individuals without discrimination based on several prohibited grounds, including religion. The Canadian Human Rights Commission (“the Commission”) is an independent agency and has a broad mandate to promote and protect human rights under the CHRA, including conducting research in consultation with rights holders, stakeholders and issuing public statements. Acknowledging the historic appointment of the first-ever Muslim Canadian to hold the position of Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the importance of the CHRA and the work carried out by the Commission to promote and protect the rights of religious minorities is well appreciated. Our Government fully supports and celebrates the right of everyone to practise the holidays and observances of their choosing.  The House of Commons in a motion made on November 30, 2023, recalled “that Christmas is a tradition celebrated in Quebec and Canada” and invited “all Quebecers and Canadians to unite as we approach the Christmas season”. The full text of the motion, which was made by unanimous consent, can be found on the House of Commons’ website (https://www.ourcommons.ca/DocumentViewer/en/44-1/house/sitting-259/hansard).The Commission issued a statement on December 2, 2023 (https://www.chrc-ccdp.gc.ca/en/resources/course-christmas-not-racist-we-never-said-it-was), clarifying the Paper was seeking to convey that “based on current Canadian law, providing a statutory holiday for one religion, and not providing reasonable accommodation for other religions may be considered discrimination.” The Discussion Paper raised that non-Christian holidays are not statutory holidays in Canada, and therefore “[…] non-Christians may need to request special accommodations to observe their holy days and other times of the year where their religion requires them to abstain from work”.The Commission further noted that Christmas was mentioned as “an example of a religious holiday that is also a statutory holiday.” With that in mind, the Paper also explained various legal obligations on employers and service providers, including the duty to accommodate, in the context of religious discrimination.In Canada’s multicultural and multi-faith society, everyone has the freedom to practice their religious beliefs, including observing religious holidays, in accordance with the CHRA and the Charter. Our Government has made strides in addressing systemic discrimination and will continue to break down barriers to continue to ensure Canada is an equitable place to live for all.
Canadian Human Rights CommissionChristmasPublic holidaysReligious discrimination
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02040441-02040 (Taxation)AlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordNDPBCJanuary 31, 2024March 18, 2024December 13, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 21, 2024441-02255441-02255 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONMarch 21, 2024December 14, 2023Petition to the Minister of Finance, Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Queen's University community and residents of Kingston and the Islands, call upon the Minister of Finance, Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02100441-02100 (Justice)DeanAllisonNiagara WestConservativeONFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024January 23, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:
  • Canadians with mental illness should be provided with treatment and support;
  • Mental illness is complex and can include suicidal thoughts as a symptom; and
  • The lives of Canadians with mental illness will be at risk when they are eligible for medical assistance in dying (MAID) on the basis of mental illness alone, especially when treatment and support are not readily available.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to reverse the law extending eligibility for MAID to people with mental illness as their sole medical condition.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Yasir NaqviThe Government of Canada believes that Canadians deserve to live in comfort and dignity, with access to care, including end-of-life care, that is appropriate to their needs and that respects their wishes. It recognizes that medical assistance in dying (MAID) is a very personal choice, and is committed to a measured, thoughtful and compassionate approach to help ensure that Canada’s MAID system meets the needs of people in Canada, protect those who may be vulnerable, and supports autonomy and freedom of choice of individuals. The safety and security of our most vulnerable people remains at the forefront of our actions as the Government takes a careful and considered approach on the implementation of MAID for persons where the sole underlying condition is mental illness.Important progress has been made to prepare for MAID eligibility for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness. However, in consultations with the provinces, territories, medical professionals and other stakeholders, the Government of Canada has heard – and agrees – that the health system is not yet ready for this expansion.On February 29, 2024, Bill C-62 received Royal Assent and immediately came into force. The legislation delays by three years eligibility for MAID for persons suffering solely from a mental illness, until March 17, 2027. Additionally, the new law requires that a joint parliamentary committee undertake a comprehensive review relating to the eligibility for MAID of persons whose sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness within two years. This measure will further serve to examine progress made by provinces, territories, and partners, in achieving overall health care system readiness.This three-year extension will provide provinces and territories with additional time to ensure their health care systems are ready, as well as provide practitioners with more time to participate in training and become familiar with available supports, guidelines and standards.This delay is also in line with the recommendations of the Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) in their report, MAID and Mental Disorders: The Road Ahead, which was tabled on January 29, 2024. While recognising that considerable progress has been made in preparing for the expansion of eligibility for persons suffering solely mental illness, AMAD recommended that it not be made available in Canada until the health care system can safely and adequately provide MAID for these cases.Supporting the mental health and well-being of Canadians remains a priority for the Government of Canada. Work with provinces and territories, and stakeholders, including through Government of Canada investments, will continue to support individuals and communities across the country who need help, now and in the future.The Government of Canada has made significant investments in this space. For example, Budget 2023 confirmed the Government’s commitment to invest close to $200 billion over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to improve health care for Canadians, including $25 billion to the Provinces and Territories via tailored bilateral agreements which will focus on four key priorities, including improving access to mental health and substance use services and the integration of these services in community family health services. This investment will build on the Budget 2017 investments, which include $2.4 billion from 2023-24 to 2026-27 that has yet to flow to PTs for mental health and addictions services.Through the Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), the Government of Canada is investing $39 million from 2019-2028 to address multiple risk and protective factors to promote mental health for children, youth, young adults, and caregivers. The MHP-IF aims to improve mental health for individuals and communities where interventions are delivered and to reduce systemic barriers for population mental health in Canada. Target population include First Nations, Inuit, Métis, newcomers, 2SLGBTQI+, and other groups experiencing socio-economic risk factors.In addition, Budget 2023 announced $158.4 million over three years to support the implementation and operation of the 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline. 9-8-8 went live and operational on November 30, 2023 and is providing people across Canada with access to suicide prevention support through trained responders by phone calls and text, 24/7/365, in English and French.  The 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is led by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), which has recruited 39 local, provincial, and national crisis and distress lines to the 9-8-8 responder network to offer suicide prevention supports across Canada. Since its launch, 9-8-8 has received approximately 1,000 phone calls and 350 texts each day.Mental health and the well-being of Canadians is a priority for the Government, and we will continue to invest in mental health services and work with Provinces and Territories and key stakeholders to support the mental health needs of individuals and communities across the country, now and in the future.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02128441-02128 (Taxation)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024February 5, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02097441-02097 (Taxation)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024February 5, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 22, 2024441-02267441-02267 (Citizenship and immigration)YasirNaqviOttawa CentreLiberalONMarch 22, 2024January 31, 2024Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Canada is recognized for its historical leadership in humanitarian actions in the global community. Our country is founded upon principles that recognize the rule of law, respect for human rights and democracy;
  • The government of Canada introduced special immigration measures in the face of the devastating and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and now Palestinians are also experiencing similar unprecedented levels of poverty, food insecurity, economic instability, the lack of basic health services, and internal displacement because of the ongoing catastrophic conflict in Gaza; and
  • Just as the government rapidly introduced the special immigration measures provided to Ukrainians so they could get to safety expeditiously, we request that the government provides similar equitable treatment to Palestinians in Gaza who are also in urgent need to get to safety.
We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Extend the same special immigration measures that were granted to Ukrainian nationals to Palestinians also;2. Allow Palestinians in Gaza to apply for the special immigration measures; and3. Establish a special work permit program for Palestinians to meet Canada's labour skill shortage.
PalestinePassports and visasRefugees
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 15, 2024441-02173441-02173 (Justice)Hon.EdFastAbbotsfordConservativeBCFebruary 15, 2024February 5, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Trudeau government has attempted to ban and seize the hunting rifles and shotguns of millions of Canadians;
  • The targeting of farmers and hunters does not fight crime; and
  • The Trudeau government has failed those who participate in the Canadian traditions of sport-shooting.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to stop any and all current and future bans on hunting and sport-shooting firearms.
FirearmsHunters
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02111441-02111 (Taxation)RobertKitchenSouris—Moose MountainConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2024441-02075441-02075 (Taxation)RichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayNDPBCFebruary 5, 2024March 20, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02064441-02064 (Justice)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONFebruary 2, 2024March 18, 2024January 19, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:
  • Canadians with mental illness should be provided with treatment and support;
  • Mental illness is complex and can include suicidal thoughts as a symptom; and
  • The lives of Canadians with mental illness will be at risk when they are eligible for medical assistance in dying (MAID) on the basis of mental illness alone, especially when treatment and support are not readily available.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to reverse the law extending eligibility for MAID to people with mental illness as their sole medical condition.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Yasir NaqviThe Government of Canada believes that Canadians deserve to live in comfort and dignity, with access to care, including end-of-life care, that is appropriate to their needs and that respects their wishes. It recognizes that medical assistance in dying (MAID) is a very personal choice, and is committed to a measured, thoughtful and compassionate approach to help ensure that Canada’s MAID system meets the needs of people in Canada, protect those who may be vulnerable, and supports autonomy and freedom of choice of individuals. The safety and security of our most vulnerable people remains at the forefront of our actions as the Government takes a careful and considered approach on the implementation of MAID for persons where the sole underlying condition is mental illness.Important progress has been made to prepare for MAID eligibility for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness. However, in consultations with the provinces, territories, medical professionals and other stakeholders, the Government of Canada has heard – and agrees – that the health system is not yet ready for this expansion.On February 29, 2024, Bill C-62 received Royal Assent and immediately came into force. The legislation delays by three years eligibility for MAID for persons suffering solely from a mental illness, until March 17, 2027. Additionally, the new law requires that a joint parliamentary committee undertake a comprehensive review relating to the eligibility for MAID of persons whose sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness within two years. This measure will further serve to examine progress made by provinces, territories, and partners, in achieving overall health care system readiness.This three-year extension will provide provinces and territories with additional time to ensure their health care systems are ready, as well as provide practitioners with more time to participate in training and become familiar with available supports, guidelines and standards.This delay is also in line with the recommendations of the Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) in their report, MAID and Mental Disorders: The Road Ahead, which was tabled on January 29, 2024. While recognising that considerable progress has been made in preparing for the expansion of eligibility for persons suffering solely mental illness, AMAD recommended that it not be made available in Canada until the health care system can safely and adequately provide MAID for these cases.Supporting the mental health and well-being of Canadians remains a priority for the Government of Canada. Work with provinces and territories, and stakeholders, including through Government of Canada investments, will continue to support individuals and communities across the country who need help, now and in the future.The Government of Canada has made significant investments in this space. For example, Budget 2023 confirmed the Government’s commitment to invest close to $200 billion over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to improve health care for Canadians, including $25 billion to the Provinces and Territories via tailored bilateral agreements which will focus on four key priorities, including improving access to mental health and substance use services and the integration of these services in community family health services. This investment will build on the Budget 2017 investments, which include $2.4 billion from 2023-24 to 2026-27 that has yet to flow to PTs for mental health and addictions services.Through the Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), the Government of Canada is investing $39 million from 2019-2028 to address multiple risk and protective factors to promote mental health for children, youth, young adults, and caregivers. The MHP-IF aims to improve mental health for individuals and communities where interventions are delivered and to reduce systemic barriers for population mental health in Canada. Target population include First Nations, Inuit, Métis, newcomers, 2SLGBTQI+, and other groups experiencing socio-economic risk factors.In addition, Budget 2023 announced $158.4 million over three years to support the implementation and operation of the 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline. 9-8-8 went live and operational on November 30, 2023 and is providing people across Canada with access to suicide prevention support through trained responders by phone calls and text, 24/7/365, in English and French.  The 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is led by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), which has recruited 39 local, provincial, and national crisis and distress lines to the 9-8-8 responder network to offer suicide prevention supports across Canada. Since its launch, 9-8-8 has received approximately 1,000 phone calls and 350 texts each day.Mental health and the well-being of Canadians is a priority for the Government, and we will continue to invest in mental health services and work with Provinces and Territories and key stakeholders to support the mental health needs of individuals and communities across the country, now and in the future.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02155441-02155 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKFebruary 13, 2024March 22, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intendend parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament207Open for signatureMarch 27, 2024e-4842e-4842 (Foreign affairs)NadiaLimaniJenicaAtwinFrederictonLiberalNBMarch 27, 2024, at 2:31 p.m. (EDT)July 25, 2024, at 2:31 p.m. (EDT)Petition to the <Addressee type="4" affiliationId="278918" mp-riding-display="1">Minister of Foreign Affairs</Addressee>We, the undersigned, concerned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to end arms support to the State of Israel immediately. What the Palestinian people are facing is nothing short of a major humanitarian crisis. The State of Israel has broken many international laws and by Canada sending arms to Israel they are directly cooperating in these crimes against humanity. As Canada is a member of the United Nations, it is their duty to ensure and uphold basic human rights to all. We, as concerned tax paying citizens strongly condemn Canada's support of the apartheid regime and implore the Canadian government to stand for a ceasefire and allow aid for the Palestinian men, women and children.Foreign policyInternational conflict and international conflict resolutionIsraelMilitary weaponsPalestine44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01977441-01977 (Employment and labour)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABDecember 7, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas:
  • The recognition of international credentials for newcomers to Canada continues to be a challenge;
  • Only 41% of doctors with international credentials work as doctors in Canada;
  • Similarly, only 37% of nurses with international credentials work as a nurse in Canada;
  • Those who decide to pursue medical studies outside of Canada, despite being from Canada, still have difficulties getting their licenses here if they choose to come back;
  • Gatekeepers in provincial licensing bodies have unnecessary hurdles and red tape, leading to healthcare professionals being prevented from doing the work they are trained to do;
  • Canada has 53,005 nurses and doctors who could be filling shortages, but the Liberal government is failing to remove barriers to the much-needed support our provincial health care systems needs;
  • Currently, a "Red Seal" program exists that sets recognized standards across Canada for tradespeople, allowing for a shared partnership that proves a professional has the necessary skills to practice their trade; and
  • Healthcare professionals want to work in Canada, but it is just a matter of creating a system without barriers for these highly skilled professionals.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion to:create a "Blue Seal" that will make the processes, with a 60-day standard, for licensing doctors and nurses to be more streamlined in order to help fill Canada's shortages on health care professionals.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykForeign credential recognition and licensure in regulated occupations (e.g., nurses, physicians) is a provincial and territorial responsibility that is typically further delegated to regulatory authorities through legislation. Each jurisdiction is responsible for establishing education, training and licensing standards in the interest of public health and safety.The Government of Canada recognizes that skilled newcomers, including internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs), are sometimes not able to contribute to their full potential. They can face challenges obtaining employment commensurate with their education, skills and experience, due to barriers such as lack of Canadian work experience, occupation-specific language proficiency, discrimination and bias from employers, and lack of awareness of existing employment supports and other social and professional resources. The foreign credential recognition process itself can also be a barrier for the successful labour market integration of skilled newcomers, as it can be complex, lengthy, and costly and varies by occupation and jurisdiction. In the context of these challenges, many provinces and territories have introduced initiatives and legislation to improve foreign credential recognition processes and support fair registration practices.For example, on May 1, 2023, the Atlantic premiers announced the launch of the Atlantic Physician Register that allows for greater mobility of fully licensed physicians in Atlantic Canada. Previously, physicians had to submit a separate full application to each provincial college, including a registration fee, to obtain a license to practice in that province. This Registry could be expanded to allow other jurisdictions to join.National organizations are also helping to harmonize and coordinate the credential recognition process amongst the provincial and territorial regulatory bodies to make it easier for internationally educated physicians and nurses to have their credentials recognized and become licensed to practice in Canada. For example, the Medical Council of Canada and the National Nursing Assessment Services are national bodies that play a role in facilitating the foreign credential recognition process of internationally educated physicians and nurses respectively.Additionally, on October 12, 2023, Federal, Provincial and Territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health and Ministers responsible for mental health met to discuss shared priorities, including the health workforce, health data, mental health and addiction, and public health. The meeting highlight was that all levels of government are taking action and making significant investments to improve health care services in Canada. Following the meeting, Ministers released a statement reaffirming their commitment to focus attention on foreign credential recognition by reducing the time it takes for IEHPs to join the workforce, and advance labour mobility to support an agile and flexible workforce.For its part, the Government of Canada’s Foreign Credential Recognition Program supports the labour market integration of skilled newcomers by funding projects with provinces and territories, regulatory authorities and organizations that simplify and harmonize national credential recognition processes, provide loans and support services to help skilled newcomers navigate foreign credential recognition processes, and help skilled newcomers gain their first Canadian work experience in their profession or field of study.For example, the Foreign Credential Recognition Program supported the Medical Council of Canada to create the Physicians Apply portal (https://physiciansapply.ca/). The portal has streamlined the process for international medical graduates to apply for a license to practice medicine in Canada by offering a platform where international and Canadian medical students and physicians can complete and submit the application for medical registration with medical regulatory authorities, access all Medical Council of Canada examinations, use source verification services, and share their credentials and documents with registered partners. The Physicians Apply portal has so far reached over 83,000 individuals who now have accounts and can access the full range of services. The portal has made it easier for nearly 1.9 million documents to be shared in support of credential recognition and licensure for international and Canadian medical graduates.Budget 2022 provided an additional $115 million over five years, with $30 million ongoing, to expand the Foreign Credential Recognition Program, with an initial focus on supporting the integration of IEHPs into the Canadian labour market. The most recent open call for proposals ran from December 5, 2022, to January 30, 2023. The call invited eligible organizations and provincial and territorial governments to submit proposals for projects that improve Foreign Credential Recognition processes, provide Canadian work experience that is relevant to the IEHPs’ intended healthcare field of work, and/or facilitate labour mobility between jurisdictions in Canada for health care professionals. Approximately $89 million will be invested in 16 new projects which are expected to start in early 2024.
Caregivers and health care professionalsCredentialsImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01962441-01962 (Justice)BobZimmerPrince George—Peace River—Northern RockiesConservativeBCNovember 27, 2023January 29, 2024November 21, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Trudeau government has attempted to ban and seize the hunting rifles and shotguns of millions of Canadians;
  • The targeting of farmers and hunters does not fight crime; and
  • The Trudeau government has failed those who participate in the Canadian traditions of sport-shooting.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to stop any and all current and future bans on hunting and sport-shooting firearms.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighborhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners.A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21, which received Royal Assent on December 15, 2023 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control. The new law includes a new forward-looking technical definition of a prohibited firearm that contains the characteristics of an assault-style firearm.Firearms that match the characteristics and requirements of this new technical definition will be prohibited. That is, a firearm that is not a handgun and that fires centre-fire ammunition in a semi-automatic manner, was originally designed with a detachable magazine with a capacity of six cartridges or more, and that is designed and manufactured on or after the day the definition comes into force. As thisnew definition is forward looking, it applies to firearms that are designed and manufactured on or after December 15, 2023. This ensures that new firearms that exceed safe civilian use are not introduced into our communities. .This definition does not apply to firearms that were on the market prior the passage of C-21. No firearms legally owned by Canadians today will be affected.To stop the growth of handgun ownership, which grew from 500,000 in 2010 to more than 1 million in 2020, Bill C-21 codified the handgun freeze in statute. While current handgun owners can continue to use their handguns, Bill C-21 prevents most individuals from transferring or acquiring new handguns, with narrow exemptions, including for sport shooting. Individuals who are training, competing or coaching in a handgun discipline on the programme of the Olympic or Paralympic Committees and who are recognized as such by the national or provincial-territorial sport shooting governing body can continue to acquire or import handguns. Public Safety Canada will conduct consultations regarding the process for these athletes to acquire handguns for their sport and to support the development of regulations related to this exemption.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada. This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence.The Government has also invested over $1.3B since 2016 to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase firearms tracing capacity and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country. 
FirearmsHunters
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01947441-01947 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONNovember 22, 2023January 29, 2024November 16, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Collins Bay Public School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01871441-01871 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBNovember 6, 2023December 12, 2023October 30, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action. 
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-02004441-02004 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024October 25, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerEquality rights are at the core of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are intended to ensure that everyone of every age is treated with the same respect, dignity, and consideration, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, mental or physical disability, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, and gender identities and expressions, from coast, to coast to coast.Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression continue to be a reality in Canada, and it must be eliminated. It is important that parents be involved in the lives of their children, and that should be balanced with the importance of protecting vulnerable young people.The Government of Canada is committed to promoting 2SLGBTQI+ equality, protecting 2SLGBTQI+ rights, and addressing discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both past and current.The Government has taken several actions to end discrimination against transgender and gender diverse people in Canada. Some highlights:
  • A new Action Plan to Combat Hate that will also address hate faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including trans people (See Budget 2023, chapter 4)
  •  2022: Government of Canada criminalized conversion therapies, see Statement
  • 2017: Canadian Human Rights Act amended to protect gender identity and gender expression
  • 2022: Launch of Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan
The first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan enables the federal government to help advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people of every age in Canada. It also seeks to address and prevent discrimination and stigma based on sexual orientation, sex characteristics, gender identity and expression for future 2SLGBTQI+ generations.The Action Plan achieves these objectives by prioritizing community action and by coordinating work to advance 2SLGBTQI+ issues across the federal government, recognizing the types of inequities facing communities. The plan is supported by an investment of $100 million, which will help create a more equitable Canada for 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both present and future generations. In doing so it builds upon work the Government of Canada has done to address persisting disparities faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities and to build a safer, more inclusive country. 
ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01876441-01876 (Health)Hon.Judy A.SgroHumber River—Black CreekLiberalONNovember 6, 2023January 29, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the House of Commons WHEREAS:
  • Over 8 million people are suffering from eye diseases and 1.2 million live with vision loss or blindness;
  • 75% of vision losses cases, if diagnosed and treated early, are preventable;
  • Historically, the federal government has lacked any substantive framework on the matter of public eye health care and the current structure has created huge gaps in access to care;
  • Systematic tackling of the issue will improve lives of millions of Canadians; and
  • It is necessary to establish a proper coordination framework between federal and provincial governments, increase capacity, provide sufficient funding for eye care, make vision care more affordable and inclusive, raise awareness of the importance of the vision care.
THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt bill C-284, an Act to establish a national strategy for eye care, as soon as possible.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandVision care is beneficial through all stages of life. Healthy vision is important for young children’s development, and helps to make many careers and activities of daily life easier. As people age, maintaining good eye health can reduce the odds of facing blindness and vision loss, as well as improve outcomes associated with eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma.Vision loss in Canada can be caused by several common eye diseases, including macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. According to a report from Deloitte and the Canadian Council of the Blind, more than eight million Canadians had a common eye disease in 2019 and were at serious risk of losing their vision. More than 1 in 10 older adults had some degree of vision loss.Regular eye exams can identify early issues with eye health and also screen for a range of health conditions including high blood pressures, diabetes, macular degeneration, and various blood diseases.While provinces and territories have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services, the federal health portfolio is leading and supporting a range of activities related to eye disease prevention and treatment.The Government of Canada is committed to investing in our health care system and supporting provinces and territories in delivering better health care for Canadians. The 2023 Federal Budget committed close to $200 billion over ten years in health funding to provinces and territories. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding, $25 billion of which has been designated to address four shared health priorities:
  • expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • modernizing the health care system with standardized health data and digital tools.
This funding builds on the 2017 investment of $11 billion over ten years to help provinces and territories improve home and community care, and mental health, and $3 billion to strengthen long-term care from Budget 2021. Addressing health workforce shortages and surgical backlogs, including for vision-related surgeries, is a key part of the Government of Canada’s plan for the health care system. Budget 2023 included a $2 billion one-time top-up to provinces and territories to address urgent pressures in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and pediatric hospitals.Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits Program also provides vision care to eligible First Nations and Inuit beneficiaries where not otherwise covered by other plans or programs. The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program’s vision care coverage includes eye exams, corrective eyewear, and eyeglass repairs.The Government of Canada recognizes that supporting research is key to a fulsome understanding of eye health, including how to prevent vision loss. Since 2018, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research have invested approximately $61 million in vision-related research. This research spans the spectrum of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various vision-related conditions.Health Canada also regulates drugs and medical devices, including those intended to be used for eye diseases and conditions. Where warranted, Health Canada has existing expedited review pathways that can be used to facilitate quicker access to health products that treat, prevent, or diagnose serious or life-threatening disease and conditions. Health Canada is also working closely with key stakeholders to identify and mitigate critical shortages of ophthalmic products when they occur.Finally, the Government of Canada is committed to the prevention and treatment of eye disease, and fully supports Canada’s public health system, which provides coverage for any vision care service that must be performed in a hospital.Private Member’s Bill C-284 will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-284, An Act to establish a national strategy for eye careNational Strategy for Eye CareVision health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 13, 2023441-01853441-01853 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBOctober 30, 2023December 13, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02051441-02051 (Social affairs and equality)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONFebruary 1, 2024March 18, 2024September 15, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas a Guaranteed Liveable Income (GLI) would:
  • Guarantee a liveable monthly income to every Canadian with a social insurance number;
  • Establish an income floor below which no Canadian could fall, and reflect regional differences in cost of living;
  • Replace the current patchwork of federal and provincial income assistance programs with a single, universal, cash benefit;
  • Be progressively taxed back based on income level;
  • Be administered through the existing tax system and require no means testing, thereby dramatically reducing federal and provincial administration costs;
  • Reduce poverty, thereby reducing the demand on social services, law enforcement and health care, resulting in additional cost savings for government and taxpayers; and
  • Provide a financial safety net for all Canadians, especially through major economic shifts, pandemics, natural disasters, or industry automation.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Implement Guaranteed Livable Income for all Canadians.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada is taking crucial steps to help make life more affordable for more Canadians, while investing to grow the economy and create jobs. It is important to acknowledge that income security is a shared responsibility across different levels of government. As such, the federal Government recognizes the importance of working with provinces and territories to find solutions to common challenges.This petition calls for the implementation of a Guaranteed Livable Income, which can be viewed as equivalent to a basic income. The Government of Canada already has ongoing programs with features of a partial basic income, such as the Canada Child Benefit for families with children, as well as the Old Age Security (OAS) pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement for seniors. In addition, existing programs such as the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) and Employment Insurance (EI) help low-income individuals that have labour market attachment or those with insurable employment. These and other initiatives have contributed to progress on lifting Canadians out of poverty. These programs exist alongside provincial and territorial programs, including those that deliver social assistance.In addition, recent budgets introduced several measures that will help to reduce poverty and inequality. For example, Budget 2023 made significant investments to build a healthier Canada and deliver affordable dental care, including $13 billion over five years, and $4.4 billion ongoing, to implement the Canada Dental Care Plan. The Government is also working with provincial, territorial and Indigenous partners to build a Canada-wide, community-based early learning child care system. The federal government is providing provinces and territories with significant funding to support substantial reductions to families for the cost of regulated child care spaces.The Government of Canada also undertakes research and analysis on potential basic income programs and other approaches that could positively impact Canada’s economy and society, as part of its efforts to tackle poverty and to ensure that all Canadians have a real and fair opportunity to succeed.
Guaranteed annual income
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01652441-01652 (Health)ValerieBradfordKitchener South—HespelerLiberalONSeptember 21, 2023November 3, 2023September 15, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:
  • A mandatory psychotropic drugs safety waiver should be signed when a patient in Canada is given a psychotropic drug they have never taken before;
  • These drugs are powerful and mind-altering;
  • There is no scientific way of knowing how a patient will respond; and
  • A safety waiver would ensure that at least one caregiver is notified so they can help monitor the patient for adverse reactions such as suicidal ideation until such a time that it's deemed safe for the patient to take the drug.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to work with the provinces and territories to make it mandatory that healthcare professionals having a patient that is being prescribed a psychotropic drug they have never taken before sign a safety waiver, which will ensure a caregiver will be contacted and counselled to help monitor for adverse side effects until such a time as it's deemed safe for the patient to take the psychotropic drug.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandThe health and safety of Canadians is Health Canada’s top priority. The Department's mandate as the regulator of health products involves administering the Food and Drugs Act (FDA) and the Food and Drug Regulations (FDR) to help Canadians maintain and improve their health.Before a health product is approved in Canada, the Department conducts a rigorous scientific review of its safety, efficacy and quality. An authorization is only issued when the benefits of the product outweigh the risks of its use as intended based on the information available at the time.Health Canada continues to monitor the safety of authorized health products available on the Canadian market through the Canada Vigilance Program (CVP) to ensure the benefits of the product continue to outweigh its risks. The CVP is Health Canada’s post-market surveillance program that collects and assesses reports of suspected adverse reactions to health products. Adverse reaction reports are submitted by healthcare professionals and consumers on a voluntary basis, whereas hospitals, manufacturers and distributors are required to report by law. The CVP provides a variety of tools to support adverse reaction reporting, which can be done online, by phone or by submitting the Side Effect Reporting Form by fax or mail. To search the Canada Vigilance Adverse Reaction Online Database, please visit the following website. When new safety issues are identified, Health Canada takes action, which could include communicating new safety information to Canadians and healthcare professionals, changing the recommended use of the health product, or, if warranted removing the health product from the Canadian market.Health Canada works closely with manufacturers to implement risk mitigation measures for risks associated with the use of authorized health products. The Department uses several tools to inform and educate patients on these risks including, but not limited to, product labelling, and distribution of patient education and counselling materials. In addition, Health Canada encourages manufacturers to engage with physicians and pharmacists to ensure the appropriate implementation of these measures. The options considered should fit the clinical situation and also take into account patient confidentiality and access to medications.The safe use of a medication is a shared responsibility. While Health Canada evaluates the overall benefits and risks of a health product and communicates those risks to help the public make informed decisions, individual benefits and risks are considered by the treating healthcare professional. The prescribing of drugs and patient counseling are part of the ‘practice of medicine’ or ‘practice of pharmacy’ and are regulated provincially and territorially by the various professional colleges.Health Canada also funds the Canadian Medication Incident Reporting and Prevention System (CMIRPS). Under CMIRPS, hospitals report medication errors to the National System for Incident Reporting (NSIR); community pharmacies report medication errors to the National Incident Data Repository for Community Pharmacies, and individual practitioners and consumers can report medication errors to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices Canada (ISMP Canada). Reports of medication errors, as well as near misses and other reports of concern are collected and analyzed for shared learning in an effort to prevent medication errors. Further, amendments to the Food and Drug Act through the Protecting Canadians from Unsafe Drugs Act (also known as Vanessa’s Law) have strengthened the regulation of therapeutic products and improve the reporting of adverse reactions by healthcare institutions.Detailed information, including side effects associated with a marketed health product, is provided in its official Canadian Product Monograph (CPM), which is updated to reflect new safety information as required and can be accessed using the Drug Product Database. This information helps to ensure that both prescribers and patients have access to information to guide their decisions about whether or not to use a particular product. Suicidal ideation is a  known risk for various psychotropic medications. The Canadian product monographsfor these medications note the potential risk for suicidal ideation associated with their use in the Warning and Precautions section, and in the patient counselling information section.In addition, the federal government focuses its efforts, through its funding for Healthcare Excellence Canada (formerly the Canadian Patient Safety Institute) on collaborative work with all jurisdictions and system stakeholders to support the different legal, regulatory, and care delivery processes that can be used to reduce the occurrence of unintentional harm. One example of this work is the Appropriate Use of Antipsychotics collaborative, which has leveraged a person-centered approach to care as a means to deprescribing antipsychotics that no longer benefit and potentially cause harm for people living with dementia. This approach can improve the person’s quality of life and safety, providers’ work–life balance, and family and care partners’ satisfaction.Health Canada will continue to monitor the safety of health products available on the Canadian market, including psychotropic medications to identify and assess potential harms. Health Canada will take appropriate and timely action should any new health risk, or changes in known risks, be identified.
Adverse drug reactionsCaregivers and health care professionalsPsychotropic drugs
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 4, 2023441-01777441-01777 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBOctober 19, 2023December 4, 2023June 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01571441-01571 (Taxation)BrendanHanleyYukonLiberalYTJune 19, 2023August 16, 2023June 6, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada and Minister of FinanceWHEREAS:
  • The Canadian Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) allows for many obvious and not-so-obvious medical expenses to be claimed to help lower the tax bill of Canadians and their loved ones;
  • To qualify for the Medical Expense Tax Credit all eligible medical expenses in the household must add up to the lesser of 3% of your net income or $2,479. If your net income is $60,000 than expenses above $1800 are deductible if eligible, however, few people meet the threshold;
  • While many types of expenses are eligible under this program, it does not cover all taxpayer incurred medical expenses equitably;
  • For those who don't have disposable income, or coverage for prescriptions, medical treatments, medical travel, etc., there is a financial burden that could be adjusted under the Canada Revenue Agency Income Tax Act; and
  • Reducing the 3% threshold to zero would enable more Canadians to get the tax credit, improving the financial health of Canadians while they are able to pursue their best mental and physical health.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Yukon Territory, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Finance to change the allowable deduction of eligible medical expenses from three percent to zero.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada’s publicly funded universal health care system is a source of pride for all Canadians. It is an essential foundation for a strong, fair and prosperous nation. To support our health care system, the Government of Canada provides long-term, predictable funding to the provinces and territories mainly through the Canada Health Transfer (CHT). The CHT is the largest major transfer to provinces and territories and supports the principles of the Canada Health Act that underpin our public health care system. The CHT is allocated to the provinces and territories on an equal per capita basis to provide comparable treatment for all Canadians, regardless of where they live. In 2023-24, it will provide $49.2 billion to provinces and territories, an increase of 9.3 percent from 2022-23.In addition, to ensure Canadians receive the care they deserve and need and strengthen our public health care system, Budget 2023 delivers $198.3 billion over 10 years, starting in 2023-24. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding to provinces and territories through new CHT measures, new tailored bilateral agreements to meet the needs of each province and territory, personal support worker wage support, and the Territorial Health Investment Fund.Budget 2023 builds on significant investments made by the federal government to strengthen our public health care system since 2015. These have included:
  • Providing $10 billion to provinces and territories to strengthen home care, community care, and long-term care for seniors;
  • Improving Canadians’ access to mental health services, including through $5 billion to provinces and territories to increase community-based mental health and addictions services;
  • Launching the Canada Dental Benefit for children under 12, which has already helped more than 300,000 children receive the dental care they need;
  • Providing $5.5 billion for primary care and public health on reserve, distinctions-based mental health support, and non-insured health benefits for First Nations and Inuit;
  • $1.2 billion to support 248 health-related infrastructure projects in First Nation communities;
  • Investing more than $800 million since 2017 through the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy to support a compassionate and evidence-based response to the overdose crisis; and
  • Launching a Sexual and Reproductive Health Fund to help make sexual and reproductive health information and services—including access to abortion—more accessible for vulnerable populations.
In this context, it is important to note that the purpose of the Medical Expense Tax Credit is to recognize that taxpayers with above-average medical expenses have a reduced ability to pay income tax as a result of incurring those expenses. The requirement that expenses be in excess of the lesser of $2,635 (in 2023) and 3 percent of income serves as a measure of above-average expenses. There is no upper limit on the total amount of expenses that may be claimed. Support for low-income workers is available through the Refundable Medical Expense Supplement. The Supplement is a refundable federal tax credit provided to individuals in low-income families, to provide some compensation for the medical and disability-related expenses they incur. Since the Supplement is refundable, individuals whose income is too low to pay taxes can benefit from the measure. 
Medical expenses tax credit
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 1, 2023441-01609441-01609 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 18, 2023November 1, 2023May 30, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • There are no laws that require makers, distributers or advertisers of commercial pornographic material to ascertain and document the consent and age of those depicted in the material;
  • Recommendation #2 from the 2021 Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Report on MindGeek states: "That the Government of Canada mandate that contenthosting platforms operating in Canada require affirmation from all persons depicted in pornographic content, before it can be uploaded, that they are 18 years old or older and that they consent to its distribution";
  • Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act adds two offences to the Criminal Code: to create pornographic material for a commercial purpose without verifying the age and consent of the individuals shown, and to distribute pornographic material without verifying the age and consent of those depicted and also removing material if in writing, consent has been withdrawn; and
  • Organizations including Defend Dignity, the National Council of Women of Canada, London Abused Women's Shelter, Montreal Council of Women, Parents Aware and the National Centre on Child Exploitation have all expressed support for Bill C-270.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to swiftly adopt Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThere is no room in Canada for sexual exploitation. Our Government is committed to ensuring that all individuals are safe from sexual exploitation, including online. It is for this exact reason that the Minister of Canadian Heritage’s December 2021 mandate letter commits to introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content, taking into consideration the feedback received from the Canadian public in 2021.In 2022, we took it a step further, which included an expert advisory group, a Citizens’ Assembly, Indigenous engagement, which involved a sharing circle and one-on-one interviews, and 20 Ministerial roundtables across Canada. Our Government is committed to putting in place a regulatory framework to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful content online. Online services have a role to play to make the Internet a safer place for all users in Canada.Furthermore, the Criminal Code includes a strong and comprehensive approach that protects against sexual exploitation, including offences that prohibit non-consensual distribution of intimate images (section 162.1), as well as child-specific sexual offences, including child pornography (section 163.1), making sexually explicit material available to a child (section 171.1) and luring a child (section 172.1). Canada’s laws addressing child sexual offending also apply extra-territorially, which means that prosecutions can happen in Canada for crimes allegedly committed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents abroad.An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide Internet service came into force on December 8, 2011. This Act requires a Canadian provider of Internet services to report to police when they have reasonable grounds to believe that their Internet service is being or has been used to commit a child pornography offence, such as making child pornography available, or distributing child pornography. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) is responsible under the Act for another measure to protect the Canadian public. It receives, and processes, reports of child pornography and child abuse on the Internet from Canadian providers of Internet services. C3P is a registered charitable organization that operates Cybertip.ca, which receives and processes tips from the public about potentially illegal material online related to child sexual exploitation and then refers any potentially actionable reports to the appropriate authorities. C3P also provides public education and awareness materials, as well as support and referral services for those who need it. In addition, C3P operates Project Arachnid, an automated web crawler, which scans the internet and automatically detects and processes tens of thousands of images per second and sends take down notices to online service providers to remove child sexual abuse material globally. When service providers, subject to the Act, are advised of a location on the Internet where child pornography may be made available to the public, the providers are required under this Act to report to C3P. All of these efforts together make C3P an effective organization that provides tools to protect children and combat child sexual exploitation.
C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material)ConsentLegal agePornography
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01836441-01836 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 26, 2023December 11, 2023May 26, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • There are no laws that require makers, distributers or advertisers of commercial pornographic material to ascertain and document the consent and age of those depicted in the material;
  • Recommendation #2 from the 2021 Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Report on MindGeek states: "That the Government of Canada mandate that contenthosting platforms operating in Canada require affirmation from all persons depicted in pornographic content, before it can be uploaded, that they are 18 years old or older and that they consent to its distribution";
  • Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act adds two offences to the Criminal Code: to create pornographic material for a commercial purpose without verifying the age and consent of the individuals shown, and to distribute pornographic material without verifying the age and consent of those depicted and also removing material if in writing, consent has been withdrawn; and
  • Organizations including Defend Dignity, the National Council of Women of Canada, London Abused Women's Shelter, Montreal Council of Women, Parents Aware and the National Centre on Child Exploitation have all expressed support for Bill C-270.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to swiftly adopt Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThere is no room in Canada for sexual exploitation. Our Government is committed to ensuring that all individuals are safe from sexual exploitation, including online. It is for this exact reason that the Minister of Canadian Heritage’s December 2021 mandate letter commits to introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content, taking into consideration the feedback received from the Canadian public in 2021.In 2022, we took it a step further, which included an expert advisory group, a Citizens’ Assembly, Indigenous engagement, which involved a sharing circle and one-on-one interviews, and 20 Ministerial roundtables across Canada. Our Government is committed to putting in place a regulatory framework to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful content online. Online services have a role to play to make the Internet a safer place for all users in Canada.Furthermore, the Criminal Code includes a strong and comprehensive approach that protects against sexual exploitation, including offences that prohibit non-consensual distribution of intimate images (section 162.1), as well as child-specific sexual offences, including child pornography (section 163.1), making sexually explicit material available to a child (section 171.1) and luring a child (section 172.1). Canada’s laws addressing child sexual offending also apply extra-territorially, which means that prosecutions can happen in Canada for crimes allegedly committed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents abroad.An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide Internet service came into force on December 8, 2011. This Act requires a Canadian provider of Internet services to report to police when they have reasonable grounds to believe that their Internet service is being or has been used to commit a child pornography offence, such as making child pornography available, or distributing child pornography. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) is responsible under the Act for another measure to protect the Canadian public. It receives, and processes, reports of child pornography and child abuse on the Internet from Canadian providers of Internet services. C3P is a registered charitable organization that operates Cybertip.ca, which receives and processes tips from the public about potentially illegal material online related to child sexual exploitation and then refers any potentially actionable reports to the appropriate authorities. C3P also provides public education and awareness materials, as well as support and referral services for those who need it. In addition, C3P operates Project Arachnid, an automated web crawler, which scans the internet and automatically detects and processes tens of thousands of images per second and sends take down notices to online service providers to remove child sexual abuse material globally. When service providers, subject to the Act, are advised of a location on the Internet where child pornography may be made available to the public, the providers are required under this Act to report to C3P. All of these efforts together make C3P an effective organization that provides tools to protect children and combat child sexual exploitation.
C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material)ConsentLegal agePornography
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01681441-01681 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023May 26, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • There are no laws that require makers, distributers or advertisers of commercial pornographic material to ascertain and document the consent and age of those depicted in the material;
  • Recommendation #2 from the 2021 Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Report on MindGeek states: "That the Government of Canada mandate that contenthosting platforms operating in Canada require affirmation from all persons depicted in pornographic content, before it can be uploaded, that they are 18 years old or older and that they consent to its distribution";
  • Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act adds two offences to the Criminal Code: to create pornographic material for a commercial purpose without verifying the age and consent of the individuals shown, and to distribute pornographic material without verifying the age and consent of those depicted and also removing material if in writing, consent has been withdrawn; and
  • Organizations including Defend Dignity, the National Council of Women of Canada, London Abused Women's Shelter, Montreal Council of Women, Parents Aware and the National Centre on Child Exploitation have all expressed support for Bill C-270.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to swiftly adopt Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that all individuals are safe from sexual exploitation, including when they are online. For that reason, the Minister of Canadian Heritage’s December 2021 mandate letter commits to introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content, reflecting feedback from the Government’s 2021 public consultation. In 2022, further engagement included an expert advisory group, a Citizens’ Assembly, Indigenous engagement, which included a sharing circle and one-on-one interviews, and 20 Ministerial roundtables across Canada. Our Government is committed to putting in place a regulatory framework to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content online. Online services must do their part to make the Internet a safer place for Canadians.Furthermore, the Criminal Code of Canada includes a robust framework that protects against sexual exploitation, including offences that prohibit non-consensual distribution of intimate images (section 162.1), as well as child-specific sexual offences, including child pornography (section 163.1), making sexually explicit material available to a child (section 171.1) and luring a child (section 172.1). Canada’s laws addressing child sexual offending also apply extra-territorially, meaning that prosecutions may occur in Canada for offences allegedly committed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents abroad.An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide Internet service came into force on December 8, 2011. This Act requires a Canadian provider of Internet services to report to police when they have reasonable grounds to believe that their Internet service is being or has been used to commit a child pornography offence, such as making child pornography available, or distributing child pornography. As the designated organization under this Act, the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) also receives, and processes, reports of child pornography and child abuse on the Internet from Canadian providers of Internet services. C3P is a non-governmental organization that operates Cybertip.ca, which forwards child sexual exploitation leads to the appropriate authorities. C3P also provides public education and awareness materials, as well as support and referral services. In addition, C3P operates Project Arachnid, an automated web crawler that detects and processes tens of thousands of images per second and sends take down notices to online service providers to remove child sexual abuse material globally.When these service providers are advised of a location on the Internet where child pornography may be made available to the public, the providers are required under this Act to make these reports to C3P.Bill C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material), which was introduced on April 28, 2022, would create two new Criminal Code offences that would prohibit making, distributing or advertising pornographic material for commercial purposes without ensuring that the individuals depicted in that material are 18 years or older and consented to being depicted in that material. This Bill will be debated in accordance with the rules of Parliament governing private member’s business. The Government of Canada will follow the debate on this bill in Parliament.
C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material)ConsentLegal agePornography
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01557441-01557 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 14, 2023August 16, 2023May 26, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and international engagement.Canada is strongly committed to working with governments, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations, to promote inclusive and accountable governance around the world. Canada is consistently a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values.Canada’s leadership in the fight against arbitrary detention demonstrates its steadfast commitment to upholding universal human rights and the rules-based international order.The Government of Canada maintains an active and open dialogue with the Turkish, Pakistani and Bahraini Governments concerning human rights, as part of Canada’s commitment to promote democracy and uphold human rights and the rule of law globally.Global Affairs Canada officials met with the Turkish families that reported of their arrest in Pakistan and Bahrain and eventual detention in Türkiye, before moving to Canada. Global Affairs Canada officials have also received a submission from these families, requesting sanctions against specific Turkish officials in relation to their previous detention in Türkiye.Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order – sanctions are a key component of this approach. We also consider the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security, combatting corruption, and promoting respect for norms and values, including human rights. Canada carefully considers the bilateral consequences that any sanction measures could have. To that end, Global Affairs Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Wherever possible, Canada coordinates closely with likeminded allies, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, to maximize the effectiveness of sanctions.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01893441-01893 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 6, 2023December 12, 2023May 18, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and international engagement.Canada is strongly committed to working with governments, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations, to promote inclusive and accountable governance around the world. Canada is consistently a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values.Canada’s leadership in the fight against arbitrary detention demonstrates its steadfast commitment to upholding universal human rights and the rules-based international order.The Government of Canada maintains an active and open dialogue with the Turkish, Pakistani and Bahraini Governments concerning human rights, as part of Canada’s commitment to promote democracy and uphold human rights and the rule of law globally.Global Affairs Canada officials met with the Turkish families that reported of their arrest in Pakistan and Bahrain and eventual detention in Türkiye, before moving to Canada. Global Affairs Canada officials have also received a submission from these families, requesting sanctions against specific Turkish officials in relation to their previous detention in Türkiye.Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order – sanctions are a key component of this approach. We also consider the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security, combatting corruption, and promoting respect for norms and values, including human rights. Canada carefully considers the bilateral consequences that any sanction measures could have. To that end, Global Affairs Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Wherever possible, Canada coordinates closely with likeminded allies, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, to maximize the effectiveness of sanctions.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 1, 2023441-01607441-01607 (Environment)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCSeptember 18, 2023November 1, 2023June 14, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada WHEREAS:
  • Over 1,600 wildfires burned over 860,000 hectares in the province of BC during the 2021 season, including the Lytton Creek Fire which devastated the Lytton First Nation and the Village of Lytton; and
  • The November 2021 "atmospheric river" weather events causing extreme flooding and landslides across southern British Columbia have resulted in:
    • The deaths of four individuals;
    • The forced evacuation of tens of thousands of residents;
    • The deaths of over half a million farm animals;
    • The blockade of every major highway and rail line into the Lower Mainland;
    • Damage to pipelines and the implementation of corresponding gas rationing measures;
    • Severe impacts to port operations and constraints on imports and exports;
    • The identification of gaps in BC's Emergency Management, especially relating to Indigenous citizens;
    • The destruction of critical infrastructure, of businesses, of agricultural operations, and of residences estimated to cost in the billions of dollars.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to recognize the essential role the affected regions play in Canada's food security and to financially partner with the province of BC, and affected Indigenous and local governments to provide all the support necessary in the immediate term for emergency recovery measures, and in the medium-to-long term for the large-scale rebuilding efforts that is required to address the damage incurred by multiple natural disasters.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): SHERRY ROMANADO, M.PThe Government of Canada recognizes the significant loss and hardship residents of British Columbia have suffered due to the 2021 atmospheric river storm and wildfires which caused widespread damage. We remain committed to ensuring that the people of British Columbia, including those in remote and Indigenous communities have the support and resources they need to deal with these challenging situations.Following a natural disaster, provinces and territories are responsible for the design and delivery of financial assistance to those who are affected. In turn, Public Safety Canada administers the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) program on behalf of the Government of Canada. The DFAA program is intended to assist provinces and territories with response and recovery costs that exceed what they might reasonably be expected to bear on their own.All decisions regarding financial assistance to individuals, small businesses, and local governments affected by a natural disaster are taken by the affected province or territory, and the DFAA sets out which costs will be eligible for cost-sharing with the federal government.British Columbia submitted requests for financial assistance under the DFAA for the 2021 atmospheric river and fire disasters. To date, the Government of Canada has contributed over $1 billion to British Columbia to support their recovery efforts.Furthermore, the Government of Canada joined the Government of British Columbia in matching donations to the Canadian Red Cross to support disaster relief and recovery efforts. Through this initiative, the Government of Canada has committed $33,251,399.29 towards 2021 British Columbia Floods Recovery and $4,635,385 towards 2021 British Columbia Wildfires Appeal.In recognition of the fact that disasters are increasing in frequency and severity across Canada, the Government of Canada recently completed a review of the DFAA to ensure there is an updated, comprehensive system available to provinces and territories for disaster recovery and to support the safety and well-being of Canadians. The modernized DFAA program, set to launch in 2025, will increase focus in improving recovery outcomes, mitigating risk, and building resilience to future disasters in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern OntarioSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENICA ATWINThe Minister of Indigenous Services would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their interest in emergency recovery and rebuilding in partnership with the Province of British Columbia, and Indigenous and local governments.Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) supports First Nations who have experienced emergencies directly through the Emergency Management Assistance Program, and provides other services in partnership with the Province of British Columbia, and the First Nations’ Emergency Services Society.Many First Nations communities in British Columbia were significantly impacted by the atmospheric river event in 2021. ISC is providing financial support to these communities for recovery including $27.7 million in funding to date to assess flood risks and mitigate future flooding impacts.ISC has also worked closely with Lytton First Nation to support recovery efforts following devastating wildfires in 2021. The department has provided over $55 million to date towards recovery projects including recovery staffing, interim community buildings, environmental remediation, and debris removal. All community members who lost homes in Lytton First Nation are in interim housing in their community, while ISC works with the community on plans to rebuild permanent housing.
Response by the President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of CanadaSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Sherry RomanadoAs the effect of climate change is impacting Canadians, the Government of Canada is committed to effective and efficient responses to wildfire and flooding events to ensure the safety and security of Canadians and is aware of the many issues that can arise from these disasters and disruptions.Through the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA), program administered by Public Safety Canada, the Government of Canada helps the provinces and territories with response and recovery costs that exceed their ability to bear on their own in the face of disasters. Due to the increasing costs, and increasing numbers of extreme weather events cause by Climate Changes the Government of Canada recently completed a review of the DFAA. This review aims to ensure there is an updated, comprehensive system available to provinces and territories for disaster recovery and to support the safety and well-being of Canadians.To address food security issues resulting from natural disasters, the AgriRecovery framework aims to help agricultural producers recover from natural disasters, including wildfire, flooding, and drought. The AgriRecovery framework is part of a suite of federal-provincial-territorial business risk management tools designed to help producers deal with the income and production losses they experience when disasters occur. The AgriRecovery framework aims to mitigate the impact of a disaster and resume production and farming operations as quickly as possible after a natural disaster.In February 2022, the Governments of British Columbia and Canada announced $228 million in funding through the Canada-BC Flood Recovery Program for Food Security to help farmers return to production and support British Columbia’s food security and agricultural communities following historic flooding in the region. Additionally, in October 2023, after an intense summer of wildfires and drought, the Government of British Columbia launched the 2023 Canada-British Columbia Wildfire and Drought AgriRecovery Initiative that offers as much as $71 million in joint federal-provincial funding to help producers throughout the province return to full operation.Since 2021, communities in British Columbia (BC) have dealt with successive severe fire and flooding seasons. To help the Province, the Government of Canada has announced over $1.2 billion in DFAA payments to B.C. for both their 2021 flooding and wildfire recovery work so far, and a total of $5 billion was set aside in 2021’s Fall Economic Statement.The Government of Canada approaches emergency recovery measures considering the needs of people, and the need to mitigate damage from future severe events. The Lytton Creek Fire is an example of an event that was particularly devastating. To help the community rebuild, Minister Sajjan, now Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan) announced over $77 million to support homeowners and business impacted by the wildfires. This included :•           $64 million, through Infrastructure Canada, to support the rebuilding of Lytton through the construction of net-zero, fire-resistant public buildings,•           $6 million for the Lytton Homeowner Resilient Rebuild program to support insured homeowners who will rebuild within net-zero and fire-resistant standards•           And $7.2 million to create the Lytton Business Restart program, delivered by PacifiCan, to help small- and medium-sized businesses get back on their feet including Indigenous-owned businesses, and those operated by women, youth and other underrepresented groups.These programs are designed to promote community resilience as fire-resistant and net-zero homes are more resilient to future fire seasons, highly energy efficient, significantly reduce heating and cooling costs for homeowners, and improve indoor air quality. In addition, these programs aim to promote job creation and local trade.As the cost of climate change will grow over the years, with more severe fire, flooding, and drought the Government of Canada is committed in reducing emissions. Emissions have decreased by over 8% since 2005 and the Federal Government is committed in achieving net-zero by 2050The federal government is committed to working with its provincial and local government counterparts to help communities recover and mitigate damage from disasters when they occur. The Government of Canada is further committed to learning and improving preparedness, response, and recovery efforts as Canadians are increasingly faced with wildfires, floods, and other natural hazard events. One only needs to look to this year and the events experienced across the country with flooding, wildfires, and drought as examples of the importance of this continued effort.Any loss of life from severe weather events and disasters is a tragedy that is mourned by many Canadians. The Government of Canada is committed to help Canadians prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. The above programs and initiatives are a few of the ways that the Government of Canada continues to learn and apply the lessons of adapting to climate change, severe weather events, and to respond to the needs of communities to prevent further loss of life and destruction.
British ColumbiaEmergency response and emergency respondersNatural disasters
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01564441-01564 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCJune 16, 2023August 16, 2023May 16, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:
  • There are significant risks to workers and the environment associated with shipbreaking due to the presence of a wide variety of hazardous materials in end-of-life marine vessels;
  • Unlike other jurisdictions, Canada lacks standards on shipbreaking and unregulated shipbreaking activities which are putting our oceans, coastal communities and workers at risk; and
  • The lack of domestic oversight of shipbreaking and disposal of end-of-life marine vessels frustrates Canada's ability to ensure compliance with its international obligations under the Basel Convention.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, Citizens and Resident of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support motion M-68 and:1. Develop enforceable federal standards to reduce the negative environmental and social impacts of shipbreaking that meet or exceed those set out in the EU Ship Recycling Regulation;2. Provide assistance through loans or grants to long-term, reputable shipbreaking companies to facilitate implementation of new federal standards into their operations; and3. Develop a strategy for recycling end-of-life federally owned marine vessels.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike Kelloway1. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and our marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union (EU) implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009 but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen the federal approach with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.2. Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territorial jurisdiction. For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time.3. Marine operators across the Federal Government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. To achieve this, a suite of government-wide procurement instruments have been established that support all stages of vessel disposal, including technical assessments, dismantling, and recycling (if/when required). Currently, supply arrangements for marine technical services and small vessel disposal are in place. A new Request for Supply Arrangements (RFSA) for medium and large Vessel Disposals was posted in June 2023. By leveraging these procurement instruments, the Federal Government is ensuring a consistent approach to disposal services.To move toward a more predictable approach to vessel disposal planning and engagement, the Government of Canada has begun incorporating planned Fleet disposal contracts as part of regular Federal Marine Procurement updates at various Marine conferences and events across Canada. In addition, since April 2023, industry engagement sessions and workshops have been conducted to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s planned program of work and standards for vessel disposals. The material presented at these events will also be made available on CanadaBuys.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherMarine operators across the federal government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. To achieve this, a suite of government-wide procurement instruments have been established to support all stages of vessel disposal, including technical assessments, dismantling and recycling (if/when required). Currently, supply arrangements for marine technical services and small vessel disposal are in place. A new Request for Supply Arrangements for medium and large vessel disposals was posted in June 2023. By leveraging these procurement instruments, the federal government is ensuring a consistent approach to disposal services.To move toward a more predictable approach to vessel disposal planning and engagement, the Government of Canada has begun incorporating federal vessel disposal forecasts as part of regular Federal Marine Procurement updates at various Marine conferences and events across Canada. In addition, industry engagement sessions and workshops are being conducted to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s planned program of work and standards for disposals. The information presented at these events is publicly available on CanadaBuys.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Annie KoutrakisPart 1: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and Canada’s marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009, but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen federal legislation with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.Part 2: Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territories jurisdiction.For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time.However, amendments to the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act were recently concluded with the passage of Bill C-47, the Budget Implementation Act, that enables the Government of Canada to establish a vessel-owner financed Vessel Remediation Fund. This Fund, once fully operational by 2025-26, will provide a stable source of resources to be used to address and remove priority abandoned or wrecked vessels posing hazards in Canadian waters, except for the largest and most complex cases. This Fund will also support research and capacity building into environmentally sustainable vessel recycling and disposal. 
Environmental protectionM-68Shipbuilding industryWaste management
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 13, 2024441-02156441-02156 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 13, 2024May 18, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C clearly communicates that the future of humanity is at risk without “rapid and far-reaching” changes to mitigate a 1.5°C temperature rise in the next 11 years and to achieve zero emissions by 2050;
  • Canada is on course to significantly overshoot our 2030 Paris Agreement target (Auditor General's Report 2018) with oil and gas and transportation emissions continuing to rise (Government of Canada);
  • The World Health Organization has clearly stated that “climate change is the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century”; and
  • The health impacts from climate change, including lung disease, heat-related illness, spread of infectious diseases, displacement, famine, drought, and mental health impacts, are being felt in Canada and abroad and are expected to accelerate across our planet at an unprecedented rate threatening "human lives and viability of the national health systems they depend on” (Lancet Countdown 2018, Lancet Countdown Briefing for Canadian Policymakers, 2018).
We, the undersigned, Physician Mothers of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Act upon the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment “Call to Action on Climate Change and Health” report (February 5, 2019), which has clearly outlined specific measures towards zero emissions;
  • Prioritize the elimination of emissions and preservation of a healthy environment as part of every portfolio and in every decision made by our federal and provincial parties;
  • Implement a nationwide carbon pricing strategy;
  • Commit to the rapid elimination of fossil fuels and coal from our economy;
  • Commit to rapid incorporation of green energy and net-zero infrastructure across the country; and
  • Eliminate single use plastics.
Canadian Association of Physicians for the EnvironmentCarbon pricingFossil fuelsGreenhouse gasesPlasticsRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01504441-01504 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBJune 5, 2023September 18, 2023May 12, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. Our Government recently announced an additional $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) that will help municipalities and Indigenous communities prevent gun and gang violence by tackling root causes of crime. We had previously announced $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $500 Million. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada recently met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE DOMINIC LEBLANC, P.C, K.C., M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.The MCC was established by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, as an independent public inquiry tasked to examine the tragedy that took place in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19, 2020. On May 31, 2023, the federal Minister of Public Safety, and Nova Scotia Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the appointment of Linda Lee Oland as Founding Chair of the Progress Monitoring Committee. In addition to this appointment, the Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the recommendations of the MCC final report, recognizing that the findings and recommendations are applicable to all Canadian jurisdictions.Furthermore, in the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01448441-01448 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBMay 15, 2023September 18, 2023May 12, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. Our Government recently announced an additional $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) that will help municipalities and Indigenous communities prevent gun and gang violence by tackling root causes of crime. We had previously announced $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $500 Million. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada recently met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, P.C, K.C., M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.The MCC was established by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, as an independent public inquiry tasked to examine the tragedy that took place in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19, 2020. On May 31, 2023, the federal Minister of Public Safety, and Nova Scotia Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the appointment of Linda Lee Oland as Founding Chair of the Progress Monitoring Committee. In addition to this appointment, the Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the recommendations of the MCC final report, recognizing that the findings and recommendations are applicable to all Canadian jurisdictions.Furthermore, in the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01519441-01519 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBJune 8, 2023September 18, 2023May 12, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. Our Government recently announced an additional $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) that will help municipalities and Indigenous communities prevent gun and gang violence by tackling root causes of crime. We had previously announced $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $500 Million. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada recently met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE DOMINIC LEBLANC, P.C, K.C., M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.The MCC was established by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, as an independent public inquiry tasked to examine the tragedy that took place in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19, 2020. On May 31, 2023, the federal Minister of Public Safety, and Nova Scotia Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the appointment of Linda Lee Oland as Founding Chair of the Progress Monitoring Committee. In addition to this appointment, the Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the recommendations of the MCC final report, recognizing that the findings and recommendations are applicable to all Canadian jurisdictions.Furthermore, in the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 29, 2023441-01760441-01760 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 16, 2023November 29, 2023May 10, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The US Commission on International Religious Freedom reported that various actors in India have advocated, instituted, and enforced sectarian policies seeking to establish India as an overtly Hindu state, contrary to India's secular and pluralistic foundation, posing grave danger to India's religious minorities;
  • Christians in India are facing targeted attacks by extremists, with 486 incidents of anti-Christian attacks in 2021 according to the United Christian Forum, and over 300 attacks reported as of July 2022, including widespread documentation of Church vandalism, assaults of Church workers, and Christian congregations threatened and humiliated;
  • Crimes against Dalit groups, including Dalit women and girls, are reported every hour according to a 2021 report by the National Crime Records Bureau, with the total cases increasing to 50,900 in 2021 compared with 50,291 in 2020; and
  • Indian Muslims are at risk of genocide according to NGO Genocide Watch, which documented "signs and processes" of genocide in India, further supported by credible reports indicating that growing Muslim minorities are subject to planned and targeted threats, assault, sexual violence and killings.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Formally ensure that all trade deals with India, including the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA), are premised on mandatory human rights provisions;2. Initiate targeted sanctions against extremists guilty of inciting violence against religious minorities in India; and3. Promote mutually respectful and mutually beneficial human rights dialogue between Canada and India.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is committed to creating economic opportunities through initiatives such as trade agreements so that more Canadians can engage in, and benefit from, trade, while at the same time advancing broader social, labour, and environmental priorities in Canada, such as inclusive growth and the promotion of human rights. Fostering greater engagement and closer ties with countries through trade agreements is also an effective way of promoting Canadian values, such as human rights, democracy, openness, respect for the rule of law, and rules-based international trade. With respect to trade agreement negotiations, the Government of Canada has paused negotiations with India to further review and reflect. The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting exporters to find opportunities to expand into international markets, including in the fast-growing Indo-Pacific Region.The promotion and protection of human rights has long been an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Canada believes that human rights are the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world. Canada remains a firm and consistent voice, speaking up for the protection and promotion of human rights and the advancement of democratic values. Canada’s autonomous sanctions regime is one of many tools that support this important work. The government remains committed to monitoring issues of human rights, such as freedom of religion or belief and the protection of the rights of persons belonging to minority groups around the world, on an ongoing basis. Canada is also committed to promoting freedom of religion or belief internationally and at home, working with partners to create a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity and against the persecution of minorities on the grounds of religion or belief. No person or group should face restrictions on the freedom to practise their faith or belief, whether in the form of laws, policies, or actions or through harassment or violence. It causes suffering and division and leads to a climate of fear, intolerance, and stigmatization. Canada will continue to stand up for this freedom while promoting diversity and inclusion for all.
Civil and human rightsIndiaInternational tradeReligious minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01459441-01459 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBMay 16, 2023September 18, 2023May 12, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. Our Government recently announced an additional $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) that will help municipalities and Indigenous communities prevent gun and gang violence by tackling root causes of crime. We had previously announced $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $500 Million. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada recently met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, P.C, K.C., M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.The MCC was established by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, as an independent public inquiry tasked to examine the tragedy that took place in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19, 2020. On May 31, 2023, the federal Minister of Public Safety, and Nova Scotia Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the appointment of Linda Lee Oland as Founding Chair of the Progress Monitoring Committee. In addition to this appointment, the Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the recommendations of the MCC final report, recognizing that the findings and recommendations are applicable to all Canadian jurisdictions.Furthermore, in the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01691441-01691 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 28, 2023November 9, 2023March 22, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The US Commission on International Religious Freedom reported that various actors in India have advocated, instituted, and enforced sectarian policies seeking to establish India as an overtly Hindu state, contrary to India's secular and pluralistic foundation, posing grave danger to India's religious minorities;
  • Christians in India are facing targeted attacks by extremists, with 486 incidents of anti-Christian attacks in 2021 according to the United Christian Forum, and over 300 attacks reported as of July 2022, including widespread documentation of Church vandalism, assaults of Church workers, and Christian congregations threatened and humiliated;
  • Crimes against Dalit groups, including Dalit women and girls, are reported every hour according to a 2021 report by the National Crime Records Bureau, with the total cases increasing to 50,900 in 2021 compared with 50,291 in 2020; and
  • Indian Muslims are at risk of genocide according to NGO Genocide Watch, which documented "signs and processes" of genocide in India, further supported by credible reports indicating that growing Muslim minorities are subject to planned and targeted threats, assault, sexual violence and killings.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Formally ensure that all trade deals with India, including the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA), are premised on mandatory human rights provisions;2. Initiate targeted sanctions against extremists guilty of inciting violence against religious minorities in India; and3. Promote mutually respectful and mutually beneficial human rights dialogue between Canada and India.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is committed to creating economic opportunities through initiatives such as trade agreements so that more Canadians can engage in, and benefit from, trade, while at the same time advancing broader social, labour, and environmental priorities in Canada, such as inclusive growth and the promotion of human rights. Fostering greater engagement and closer ties with countries through trade agreements is also an effective way of promoting Canadian values, such as human rights, democracy, openness, respect for the rule of law, and rules-based international trade. With respect to trade agreement negotiations, the Government of Canada has paused negotiations with India to further review and reflect. The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting exporters to find opportunities to expand into international markets, including in the fast-growing Indo-Pacific Region.The promotion and protection of human rights has long been an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Canada believes that human rights are the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world. Canada remains a firm and consistent voice, speaking up for the protection and promotion of human rights and the advancement of democratic values. Canada’s autonomous sanctions regime is one of many tools that support this important work. The government remains committed to monitoring issues of human rights, such as freedom of religion or belief and the protection of the rights of persons belonging to minority groups around the world, on an ongoing basis. Canada is also committed to promoting freedom of religion or belief internationally and at home, working with partners to create a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity and against the persecution of minorities on the grounds of religion or belief. No person or group should face restrictions on the freedom to practise their faith or belief, whether in the form of laws, policies, or actions or through harassment or violence. It causes suffering and division and leads to a climate of fear, intolerance, and stigmatization. Canada will continue to stand up for this freedom while promoting diversity and inclusion for all.
Civil and human rightsIndiaInternational tradeReligious minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01370441-01370 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023March 21, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 8, 2023441-01196441-01196 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCMarch 23, 2023May 8, 2023March 21, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas: Children born in 2020 will face on average 2-7 times more extreme weather events than their grandparents;In a 2021 report in The Lancet, 83% of children worldwide reported that they think people have failed to take care of the planet; Those most affected by climate change are the youngest generation, as they will live to see the worst effects of the crisis; Youth discussion has proven crucial to successful climate action and policy creation; However, dozens of climaterelated decisions are made without input from youth; Statistics around the world show that if youth were making these decisions, the representation in Parliament outcome would be different; andChildren under 18 are not legally allowed to vote, and are therefore without legal voice or accurate.Therefore, we, the undersigned, Citizens and Residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Require all Members of Parliament, regardless of party lines, to consult with a secondary or elementary school leadership, student council, or environmental youth group of their Riding (i.e. under-18 youth representatives), before Parliament holds the Second Reading of any Bill that directly affects Canada's Greenhouse Gas Emissions; and2. The purpose of the consultation will be to listen to the viewpoints of those directly affected by the specified Bill, but who do not already have representation in Parliament.
Response by the Prime MinisterSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Kevin LamoureuxThank you for raising this important issue. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting our natural environment, fighting climate change, and making Canada more resilient to the threats posed by extreme weather. Canadians depend on our natural environment for jobs, clean air and water, and for a sense of place in the world. However, the risks to our environment have never been greater. Climate change threatens nature, our communities, and our economy.For these reasons, the Government of Canada has taken significant action to protect the environment, conserve nature and biodiversity, and respond to the threat of climate change. The Government has established a federal pollution pricing system, established the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan that outlines a sector-by-sector roadmap to achieve Canada`s 2030 target of 40-45 per cent reduction in emissions, put Canada on a path to planting two billion trees, released its first National Adaptation Strategy, and has worked with provinces and territories towards a goal of zero plastic waste by 2030.The Government of Canada recognizes that youth have a critical role to play in climate action. They are important agents of change, with innovative ways of thinking. Canada’s Youth Policy and the State of the Youth Report identify Environment and Climate Action as a key priority for youth. The Government of Canada considers the youth perspective as vital to ensuring that the country's transition to a prosperous and low-carbon future is sustainable and inclusive. Established in August 2022, the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council is a group of 10 young Canadians who are passionate about protecting the environment and taking climate action. In its first six months, the Youth Council members have contributed to and participated in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP27 in Egypt and the Convention on Biodiversity COP15 in Montreal, and have advised the government on policy issues, including the National Adaptation Strategy and climate communications.Strategic environmental assessments are also a mandatory part of the policy and legislative development process. These assessments help to ensure all public policies and strategic decisions made by the Government of Canada are guided by the potential impact on the environment. In carrying out the assessments, the Government will consider the scope and nature of likely environmental effects, the need for mitigation to reduce or eliminate adverse effects and take into consideration any adverse environmental effects and mitigation that may be required.
Climate change and global warmingPublic consultationYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01371441-01371 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023March 30, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01373441-01373 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023April 3, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01468441-01468 (Health)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCMay 18, 2023July 19, 2023April 18, 2023Petition to the Governement of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Licences for the production of medical cannabis are often abused, with production in excess of personal use amounts diverted for commercial sale on the black market;
  • The amount of cannabis individuals are authorized to possess for medical purposes is impossible for an individual to personally consume;
  • Grow-ops in residential neighbourhoods have negative impacts on nearby residents' health and well-being, such as excessive smells, frequent traffic, and reduced property values;
  • Municipal enforcement agencies have little to no power over cannabis grow-ops in their own jurisdictions; and
  • The federal government has failed to subject personal registered medical cannabis production to examination and inspection, allowing grey and black-market cannabis growing operations to flourish under this program.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to reform the licensing and oversight of the production of cannabis for personal medical use, and to grant resources and authority to the provinces in regulating and enforcing the production of cannabis for personal medical use, in turn empowering municipal regulation and enforcement.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreBackground on cannabis for medical purposes in CanadaCanada’s medical cannabis regime was created and then shaped over time by successive court decisions, which resulted in the evolution of a framework of legal access to cannabis for medical purposes.This model has evolved over the past two decades, from one that initially provided individual exemptions to enable medical patients to possess cannabis for their personal consumption, to a system of federal licensure that allows patients, with the support of their health care practitioner, to obtain cannabis from a licensed producer, to cultivate their own cannabis, or to designate someone to cultivate it on their behalf.In 2015, when the Government of Canada announced the commitment to legalize and regulate cannabis for non-medical purposes, a Task Force was put in place to consult and provide advice on the design of a new legislative and regulatory framework for legal access to cannabis.The Task Force engaged extensively with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, experts, patients, advocates, Indigenous governments and representative organizations, employers, and industry.In the final Task Force report (2016), it was recommended that the federal government maintain a separate medical access system (from non-medical) and commit to reviewing it within five years.Since October 17, 2018, the Cannabis Act and the Cannabis Regulations now govern Canada's cannabis for medical purposes program.The Cannabis Act and Cannabis Regulations strictly regulate the production, distribution, sale and possession of cannabis in Canada, including cannabis for medical purposes. The oversight of cannabis production is a shared responsibility across federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments.Under the Cannabis Regulations, Canadians who have been authorized by their health care practitioner can access cannabis for medical purposes in three ways:
  1. purchase quality-controlled cannabis from a wide variety of federally licensed sellers inspected by Health Canada;
  2. produce a limited amount of cannabis for their own medical purposes; or,
  3. designate someone to produce it for them.
Individuals who are authorized to produce cannabis for medical purposes must abide by the requirements of the Cannabis Regulations. In addition, they must abide by all other applicable provincial, territorial, and municipal laws and by-laws, including complying with fire and building code regulations and any applicable landlord and tenant regulations.Health Canada’s roleHealth Canada is committed to protecting patients’ rights to reasonable access to cannabis for medical purposes and recognizes that most patients are using the medical access program for its intended purposes. Since the coming into force of the Cannabis Act and the Cannabis Regulations, however, Health Canada has seen a concerning trend with the size of certain personal and designated production sites and issues associated with them. As in any regulatory framework, there will be instances where individuals choose to operate outside of the law, and abuse of the medical purposes framework undermines the integrity of the system that many patients and health care practitioners rely on to access cannabis to address their medical needs. In April 2022, in an effort to address the risk of abuse and preserve the program’s integrity, Health Canada published Guidance on Personal Production of Cannabis for Medical Purposes. The document outlines proposed factors Health Canada may consider when making a decision to refuse or revoke a registration for personal or designated production of cannabis for medical purposes on public health or public safety grounds, including the risk of cannabis being diverted to an illicit market or activity. Health Canada continues to strengthen its oversight and reduce the risk of abuse of the cannabis for medical purposes registration program, using authorities under the Cannabis Regulations, by: 
  • conducting additional verifications when warranted (e.g., contacting the Health Care Practitioner (HCP) to confirm the validity of the medical document and to confirm the daily dosage amount); 
  • refusing or revoking a registration if it is determined that an applicant has submitted false or misleading information as part of their application, such as a forged medical document; 
  • proactively sharing information with provincial and territorial medical licensing bodies about the authorizing practices of HCPs in their jurisdiction, to inform any action they decide to take; 
  • verifying that there are no more than four registrations at any given production site—the maximum allowed in the regulations—to reduce the risk of large-scale production sites;
  • conducting inspections of personal registration and designated production sites to further verify compliance with the regulations; and,
  • acting on evidence from law enforcement that individuals who are registered to grow cannabis for medical purposes are not respecting the terms and conditions of their registration or the regulatory requirements.
As of April 30, 2023, Health Canada has refused or revoked over 1,800 registrations under the Cannabis Regulations, including over 1,200 for reasons of public health and public safety. Provincial, territorial, and municipal rolesIt is important to note that different levels of government and law enforcement have roles in maintaining public safety with respect to cannabis. It is the responsibility of municipalities to enforce their bylaws with respect to cannabis production, and law enforcement has the authority to take action against illegal cannabis activity under the Cannabis Act and against those who operate outside of the legal framework. Some communities have been successful in creating by-laws to limit the impact of the production of cannabis in residential areas and we plan to address this issue in upcoming outreach activities.Health Canada encourages all provinces, territories, and municipalities to use the tools at their disposal to confirm that individuals meet all standards and by-laws. This includes implementing any limitations on zoning, location, and nuisances such as noise and lighting that they feel are appropriate in their jurisdictions.Municipalities could require building permits and inspections of electrical work at personal production sites. Please note that it is outside of Health Canada’s jurisdiction to enforce provincial or municipal legislation.Municipalities may also wish to refer to the Municipal Guide to Cannabis Legalization developed by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, which provides guidance in areas such as odour and other nuisances.Health Canada engages and collaborates with provincial and territorial (PT) partners on a regular basis, including at a bi-monthly meeting with senior officials from each PT, and on an ad hoc basis regarding specific issues. In February 2023, Health Canada organized a multi-sectoral meeting with PT and municipal governments, as well as law enforcement partners, to discuss personal and designated production of cannabis for medical purposes.Support for law enforcementHealth Canada actively supports law enforcement by providing a dedicated 24-7 service to confirm whether specific individuals are authorized to possess or produce a limited amount of cannabis for medical purposes. The Department also provides information, where appropriate, to law enforcement and other authorities to assist with active investigations.Legislative review of the Cannabis ActOn September 22, 2022, the Minister of Health and the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions launched the legislative review of the Cannabis Act. An Expert Panel is leading the review and a report.Among the key themes that the Expert Panel is exploring is the impact of the legalization and regulation of cannabis on access to cannabis for medical purposes.The Expert Panel will also be focusing on identifying priority areas for action with regards to protecting young persons and protecting public safety.Those who wish to provide input may contact the Cannabis Act Legislative Review Secretariat at legreview-examenleg@hc-sc.gc.ca.A final report will be developed in the second phase of the review and will include findings or recommendations, which will be tabled in both Houses of Parliament by March 2024.
CannabisCrop productionFederal-provincial-territorial relationsRegulation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01375441-01375 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023April 14, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01273441-01273 (Environment)BlakeDesjarlaisEdmonton GriesbachNDPABMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023March 20, 2023Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reductions targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seizing the generational economic opportunities that a net zero future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonisation technology in the conventional energy sector.As part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. On December 8, 2022, the Government announced the implementation of this commitment with the release of the policy guidelines that lay the foundation for federal departments and agencies to put in place the measures set out in this commitment. By ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada will ensure its investments abroad are aligned with its domestic and international climate goals, which means investing in clean energy and renewables.In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated the timeline to do so to this year. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also announced that it will cap and cut emissions from the oil and gas sector in line with Canada’s climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.With a highly skilled and educated workforce, and with the abundant natural resources and energy sources critical for a net-zero future, Canada is uniquely positioned to benefit from a low-carbon economy. The Government is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required – including legislation – to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero future.  This is why the Government released its interim Sustainable Jobs Plan in February of this year. This Plan is complementary to – and in fact a part of – Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth. In drafting this Plan, the Government consulted widely with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society.This Plan also lays out the Government’s proposed approach to sustainable jobs legislation, which will create a framework for accountability, engagement and transparency that will ensure we empower workers and communities while building economic opportunities in ways that give confidence to Canadians.In addition to outlining the Government’s approach to legislation, the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan also describes the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, renewable energy, low-carbon building products, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and small modular reactors, Canada has a major opportunity to build a net-zero future that works for everyone. There are also significant opportunities for sustainable jobs in conventional energy industries that are working to lower their emissions in line with Canada’s climate policy, enabling producers to be low-emissions suppliers of products to a world in transition.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables are a key initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables were created to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, as well as experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada so that they can realize their comparative advantages in a net-zero emissions economy. The federal government has jointly launched nine such Regional Tables already, with British Columbia, the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.Since 2016, the Government of Canada has also earmarked $120 billion in investments to support emissions reductions and the low-carbon economy. In addition to these investments, the Government has developed targeted tax measures that similarly work to support the creation of sustainable jobs. For example, new Investment Tax Credits for Clean Hydrogen and Clean Technologies were announced in the 2022 Fall Economic Statement, and they would provide a refundable tax credit equal to 30 per cent of the capital cost of investments in clean energy technologies for claimants that meet certain labour conditions (20 per cent rate for those who do not). The Fall Economic Statement also unveiled details of the Canada Growth Fund, which seeks to attract billions of dollars in private capital to reduce Canada’s emissions, grow the economy and create good jobs.Recognizing the importance of helping Canadians access job training for the net-zero future, the Government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including for sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers transition to and take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the Fall Economic Statement announced funding to create a Sustainable Jobs Secretariat, establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program, and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a net-zero world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTSince 2015, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions rapidly by 2030, achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (2030 ERP) in Parliament. The 2030 ERP is the Government’s most recent, major step to take action to meet Canada’s climate objectives, and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Net Zero Advisory Body.Investments in Indigenous-led climate action are critical to enabling Indigenous peoples to advance their self-determined priorities. Since the release of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, in December 2020, the federal government has committed more than $2 billion in targeted investments to support Indigenous communities, including initiatives to facilitate the transition to clean energy, advance nature-based solutions, build new or retrofit green community buildings, promote resilience and adaptation, and undertake major disaster mitigation projects, among others. These investments supplement more than $425 million over 12 years committed under the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF), as well as funding provided to Indigenous proponents through general climate programs for which they are eligible recipients. In the 2030 ERP and Budget 2022, the Government of Canada committed $29.6 million to co-develop and implement a model of climate partnership that empowers self-determined climate action; leverages the transition to a net-zero economy to support efforts toward self-determination and the alleviation of socio-economic inequalities; and supports the expression of Indigenous science and knowledge systems in national climate policy. The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the PCF and Canada’s strengthened climate plan. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a clean electricity standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of sustainable jobs and skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.Canada also contributes to emissions reduction in developing countries through its climate finance. Initiatives under Canada’s previous $2.65 billion climate finance commitment led to significant emissions reduced or avoided. In addition, our current $5.3 billion commitment (2021-2026) features Clean Energy Transition and Coal Phase-Out as a focus area.Under this focus area, Canada supports efforts to reduce GHG emissions in developing countries by investing in initiatives that phase out coal-powered emissions, foster equitable access to clean energy solutions, promote energy efficient technologies, and support the clean energy sector enabling environment in key coal-dependent regions. In line with this, Canada has recently dedicated $43 million to energy transition programming, including a $5 million contribution to the South East Asia Energy Transition Partnership, and an $8 million contribution to the International Energy Agency’s Clean Energy Transitions Programme. With G7 partners, Canada is also providing support to new Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETP) with countries such as South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam, including through its $1 billion commitment to the Climate Investment Funds Accelerating Coal Transitions Program among other sources of support. JETPs are a new model of international energy, climate, and economic assistance for emerging and developing countries to accelerate their transitions to cleaner, more climate resilient economies, while also including the perspectives and needs of workers and communities.This priority complements Canada’s leadership through the Powering Past Coal Alliance. This initiative, which Canada co-leads with the United Kingdom, works to increase global ambition on coal phase-out and supports developing countries by sharing expertise and best practices. Canada’s public climate finance also helps mobilize private capital, which is a key component of climate action, including for clean energy transition.  
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykOn February 17, 2023 the Government of Canada released the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan 2023-2025, which included 10 concrete actions being taken to support the creation of sustainable jobs and help workers in every part of Canada.This interim plan is informed by over two years of consultations and conversations with provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, workers and unions, industry, environmental and civil society organizations and interested Canadians. This interim plan defines the federal government’s commitment to make progress on implementing the 10 key action areas, including a high-level summary of the approach to sustainable jobs legislation.The Government is preparing to introduce this legislation in 2023. It will lay out a framework for federal governance, accountability, and engagement that will help ensure a coherent and coordinated federal approach for implementing measures that support sustainable job creation.The Government of Canada has also been working to move forward on a path to a net-zero emissions economy for several years. Since 2015, the Government has earmarked $120 billion to help achieve climate and environment objectives, accelerate economic growth, and support the creation of sustainable jobs.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce. The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand; 
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and, 
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table to advise the Government on priorities for helping workers navigate the changing labour market.The 2022 Fall Economic Statement (FES) further proposes to provide $250 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy. Specific measures include: a Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and a new Sustainable Jobs Secretariat.The Sustainable Jobs Training Centre will bring together workers, unions, employers, and training institutions across the country to examine the skills of the labour force today, forecast future skills requirements, and develop curriculum, micro-credentials, and on-site learning to help 15,000 workers upgrade or gain new skills for jobs in a low-carbon economy. The Centre would focus on specific areas in high demand, starting with the sustainable battery industry and low-carbon building and retrofits.The FES also proposes to put in place a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program to support unions in leading the development of green skills training for works in the trades. It is expected that 20,000 apprentices and journeypersons would benefit from this investment.To effectively support workers on the road to sustainable, good-paying jobs, the FES also proposes to launch the Sustainable Jobs Secretariat to offer a one-stop shop for workers and employers. It will provide the most up to date information on federal programs, funding, and services across government departments as Canada works to build a low-carbon economy with opportunities for everyone.  
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01386441-01386 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABApril 28, 2023June 12, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of May 8, 2023, we have welcomed 30,680 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic minority communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021 and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca.More information about potential other pathways for Afghan nationals to explore can be found on the Departmental website at Immigrate to Canada - Canada.ca
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 15, 2023441-01404441-01404 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABMay 2, 2023June 15, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of May 11, 2023, we have welcomed 31,130 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic minority communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021, and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca.More information about potential other pathways for Afghan nationals to explore can be found on the Departmental website at Immigrate to Canada - Canada.ca
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023441-01342441-01342 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABApril 26, 2023June 9, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of May 5, 2023, we have welcomed 30,680 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic minority communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021 and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.We are working with our partners, both internationally and within the Government of Canada, to find comprehensive solutions, as we know many persecuted minorities remain in Afghanistan. There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca.More information about potential other pathways for Afghan nationals to explore can be found on the Departmental website at Immigrate to Canada - Canada.ca.
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01581441-01581 (Environment)PeterFragiskatosLondon North CentreLiberalONJune 21, 2023August 16, 2023March 3, 2023Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTSince 2015, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. It understands that accelerated efforts are crucial to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions rapidly by 2030, achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (2030 ERP) in Parliament. The 2030 ERP is the Government’s most recent, major step to take action to meet Canada’s climate objectives, and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, and the Net Zero Advisory Body.Investments in Indigenous-led climate action are critical to enabling Indigenous peoples to advance their self-determined priorities. Since the release of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, in December 2020, the federal government has committed more than $2 billion in targeted investments to support Indigenous communities, including initiatives to facilitate the transition to clean energy, advance nature-based solutions, build new or retrofit green community buildings, promote resilience and adaptation, and undertake major disaster mitigation projects, among others. These investments supplement more than $425 million over 12 years committed under the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF), as well as funding provided to Indigenous proponents through general climate programs for which they are eligible recipients. In the 2030 ERP and Budget 2022, the Government of Canada committed $29.6 million to co-develop and implement a model of climate partnership that empowers self-determined climate action; leverages the transition to a net-zero economy to support efforts toward self-determination and the alleviation of socio-economic inequalities; and supports the expression of Indigenous science and knowledge systems in national climate policy. The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the PCF and Canada’s strengthened climate plan. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a clean electricity standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of sustainable jobs and skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.Canada also contributes to emissions reduction in developing countries through its climate finance. Initiatives under Canada’s previous $2.65 billion climate finance commitment led to significant emissions reduced or avoided. In addition, its current $5.3 billion commitment (2021-2026) features Clean Energy Transition and Coal Phase-Out as a focus area.Under this focus area, Canada supports efforts to reduce GHG emissions in developing countries by investing in initiatives that phase out coal-powered emissions, foster equitable access to clean energy solutions, promote energy-efficient technologies, and support the clean energy sector enabling environment in key coal-dependent regions. In line with this, Canada has recently dedicated $43 million to energy transition programming, including a $5 million contribution to the South East Asia Energy Transition Partnership, and an $8 million contribution to the International Energy Agency’s Clean Energy Transitions Programme. With G7 partners, Canada is also providing support to new Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETP) with countries such as South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam, including through its $1 billion commitment to the Climate Investment Funds Accelerating Coal Transitions Program among other sources of support. JETPs are a new model of international energy, climate, and economic assistance for emerging and developing countries to accelerate their transitions to cleaner, more climate resilient economies, while also including the perspectives and needs of workers and communities.This priority complements Canada’s leadership through the Powering Past Coal Alliance. This initiative, which Canada co-leads with the United Kingdom, works to increase global ambition on coal phase-out and supports developing countries by sharing expertise and best practices. Canada’s public climate finance also helps mobilize private capital, which is a key component of climate action, including for clean energy transition.        
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous low-carbon economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reductions targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seizing the generational economic opportunities that a net zero emissions future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonisation technology in the conventional energy sector.Budget 2023 makes transformative investments to build Canada’s clean economy, fight climate change, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and Canadian workers. This includes significant measures that will deliver cleaner and more affordable energy, support investment in our communities and the creation of good-paying, high-quality jobs, and ensure Canadian workers are able to produce and provide the goods and resources that Canadians and our allies need. These investments are underpinned by a set of clear and predictable investment tax credits, low-cost strategic financing, and targeted investments and programming, where necessary, to respond to the unique needs of sectors or projects of national economic significance. Since 2016, the federal government has committed over $120 billion to clean growth and emissions reduction measures, including over $80 billion in recently announced investment tax credits.Canada also joined other countries at COP26 in committing to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. On December 8, 2022, the Government announced the implementation of this commitment with the release of the policy guidelines that lay the foundation for federal departments and agencies to put in place the measures set out in this commitment. By ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada will ensure its investments abroad are aligned with its domestic and international climate goals, which means investing in clean energy and renewables.In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated the timeline to do so this year. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also announced that it will cap and cut emissions from the oil and gas sector in line with Canada’s climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.With a highly skilled and educated workforce, and with the abundant natural resources and energy sources critical for a net-zero future, Canada is uniquely positioned to benefit from a low-carbon economy. The Government is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero emissions future.  The interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, released in February 2023, lays out a comprehensive approach as part of Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth.This plan, drafted in consultation with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society, describes the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, renewable energy, low-carbon building products, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and small modular reactors, Canada has a major opportunity to build a net-zero future that works for everyone. There are also significant opportunities for sustainable jobs in conventional energy industries that are working to lower their emissions in line with Canada’s climate policy, enabling producers to be low-emissions suppliers of products to a world in transition.Furthermore, as committed to in the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan released in early 2023, the Government introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, in June 2023, which will establish a federal governance, engagement, and accountability framework to advance economic prosperity and ensure workers benefit from the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. The bill will require the Government to establish a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide independent advice to Government on sustainable jobs measures; to create a Secretariat to lead the Government’s sustainable jobs approach; and to release a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years beginning in 2025. These mechanisms will guide and organize efforts to support workers and communities as Canada shifts to a net-zero economy, ensuring equitable, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth across the country.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables are a key initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables were created to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, as well as experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada so that each can realize its comparative advantages in a net-zero emissions economy. The federal government has jointly launched nine such Regional Tables already, with British Columbia, the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.Recognizing the importance of helping Canadians access job training for the net-zero future, the Government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including for sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers transition to and take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the Fall Economic Statement announced funding to create a Sustainable Jobs Secretariat, establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program, and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a low-carbon world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykOn June 15, 2023, the Government of Canada introduced a bill entitled An Act respecting accountability, transparency and engagement to support the creation of sustainable jobs for workers and economic growth in a net-zero economy (Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act). The legislation will put workers and communities at the centre of policy and decision-making by establishing a federal framework for accountability, a governance structure and engagement mechanisms — all guided by the principles of equity, fairness and inclusion. These include:
  • creating a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide the government, through a process of ongoing social dialogue and engagement, with independent advice on the most effective measures to encourage sustainable job creation and to support workers and communities in the transition to a low-carbon economy;
  • publishing a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years, beginning in 2025, to put in place measures to invest in the net-zero emissions economy and support the workers in accessing the skills they need to participate in this economy; and,
  • establishing a Sustainable Jobs Secretariat to support the implementation of the proposed Act, support the Council, and coordinate work across Government departments.
The Act will hold future governments to account with respect to supporting Canada’s workers in a changing global economy. Similar to the Net-Zero Accountability Act, it will put into place structures, guidelines and accountability mechanisms to help Canadians judge the performance of this and future governments in this space.On February 17, the Government released the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan 2023-2025, which included 10 concrete actions being taken to support the creation of sustainable jobs and help workers in every part of Canada.This interim plan and the Act are informed by over two years of consultations and conversations with provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, workers and unions, industry, environmental and civil society organizations and interested Canadians. This interim plan defines the federal government’s commitment to make progress on implementing the 10 key action areas, including a high-level summary of the approach to moving forward with sustainable jobs legislation.The Government of Canada has also been working to move forward on a path to a net-zero emissions economy for several years. Since 2015, the Government has earmarked $120 billion to help achieve climate and environment objectives, accelerate economic growth, and support the creation of sustainable jobs.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table to advise the Government on priorities for helping workers navigate the changing labour market.The 2022 Fall Economic Statement (FES) further proposes to provide $250 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy. Specific measures include: a Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and a new Sustainable Jobs Secretariat.The Sustainable Jobs Training Centre will bring together workers, unions, employers, and training institutions across the country to examine the skills of the labour force today, forecast future skills requirements, and develop curriculum, micro-credentials, and on-site learning to help 15,000 workers upgrade or gain new skills for jobs in a low-carbon economy. The Centre would focus on specific areas in high demand, starting with the sustainable battery industry and low-carbon building and retrofits.The FES also proposes to put in place a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program to support unions in leading the development of green skills training for works in the trades. It is expected that 20,000 apprentices and journeypersons would benefit from this investment.To effectively support workers on the road to sustainable, good-paying jobs, the FES also proposes to launch the Sustainable Jobs Secretariat to offer a one-stop shop for workers and employers. It will provide the most up to date information on federal programs, funding, and services across government departments as Canada works to build a low-carbon economy with opportunities for everyone.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01473441-01473 (Health)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 29, 2023August 16, 2023February 6, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The overdose crisis in Canada is a public health emergency, as has already been declared by British Columbia's Provincial Health Officer and several municipalities across Canada;
  • More than 13,900 individuals have died of opioid-related deaths and there have been 17,050 opioid-related poisoning hospitalizations in Canada since 2016;
  • There is disproportionate representation of Indigenous people affected by the overdose crisis; and
  • The Canadian Public Health Association, the Global Commission on Drug Policy, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations, have recommended drug decriminalization.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Declare a public health emergency due to overdose deaths in Canada;
  • Reframe the overdose crisis in Canada as a health issue rather than a criminal issue;
  • Take a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to the overdose crisis, by addressing issues of addiction, poverty, housing, health care, racial discrimination, and economic inequality and instability;
  • Listen to and act on recommendations made by social workers, front-line workers, nurses, doctors, drug users, and individuals directly involved in the drug-using community; and
  • Decriminalize drugs in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe toxic drug and overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the crisis has only become more complex due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience (PWLLE), to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis as a health issue and is working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives.The Government of Canada recognizes that substance use is a public health issue, not an issue for the criminal justice system. We are committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant actions and made commitments of more than $1 billion to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • Close to $500 million through the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) since 2017 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services; and,
  • $45 million to develop national standards for mental health and substance use services, in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations and key stakeholders, to address long-standing challenges in the delivery of mental health and substance use services and supports across the country; and,
  • $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction.
Budget 2023 proposes to provide a total of $359.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $5.7 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to support a renewed Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, which would guide the government's work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians. This includes:
  • $144 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Health Canada for the Substance Use and Addictions Program to fund community-based supports, including safer supply, supervised consumption sites, and other evidence-based health interventions;
  • $20.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada for a new community-based program to prevent substance use among young people; 
  • $73.9 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $4.6 million ongoing, to Health Canada to streamline authorizations for supervised consumption sites and drug checking services, scale-up access to safer supply, and evaluate innovative approaches;
  • $50.8 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $1.1 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to Health Canada, and $16 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada to support vital data collection on substance-related harms and lab-based analysis of the illegal drug supply;
  • $4.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Safety Canada to develop an overdose monitoring app for paramedics and other first responders; and,
  • $42 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, $6.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Services and Procurement Canada, and $1.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, sourced from existing resources, to Global Affairs Canada, to take further action to work with our partners to tackle drug trafficking and stem the global flow of these devastating substances.
Of note, under SUAP, more than $26 million has been allocated to fund Naloxone distribution, education and training. In addition, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches for greater access to pharmaceutical-grade alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of June 2023, Health Canada has supported 31 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through SUAP representing total funding commitments of over $100 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects, and a National Safer Supply Community of Practice to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.Health Canada has supported the rapid expansion of supervised consumption services across Canada. Since January 2016, the number of federally approved supervised consumption sites offering services has grown from 1 to 40. Health Canada also proactively issued exemptions that allows provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing supervised consumption sites, shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Urgent Public Health Need Sites, unlike supervised consumption sites, are temporary locations that can be set up rapidly to address the overdose crisis. Both share the goal of reducing overdose deaths.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment and safer supply programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder; as well facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and,  
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
The Government recognizes that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments to ensure that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.The Government of Canada is also working closely with provinces and territories to change the way our healthcare system delivers mental health and substance use services to Canadians. It is important for Canadians to have timely access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, quality mental health and substance use services that meet their needs, including underserved and equity-deserving individuals. That is why, on February 7, 2023, the Prime Minister announced that the federal government will invest $198.6 billion over ten years to bolster the health care system, notably: top-ups to the Canada Health Transfer to address immediate health care pressures; and $25 billion over 10 years to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements.In response to substance use harms and the opioid overdose crisis, the Government of Canada is regularly consulting with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. The Government regularly engages with PWLLE and organizations that represent them, including: regular bi-lateral meetings with key organizations; participation on projects teams; facilitating PWLLE engagement in government and ministerial events and meaningful consultations in order to better understand their perspectives of substance use; and on-the-ground realities (e.g., roundtables, Knowledge Exchange Series, etc.).Health Canada established the PWLLE Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners.The Government of Canada continues collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, stakeholders and partners such as community-based organizations to reduce the harms associated with substance use and providing people with the culturally appropriate and trauma-informed support they need.Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of personal drug possession can, increase risks of overdose and other harms, increase barriers to care and perpetuate stigma. Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments encourage police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the CDSA to reflect the Government’s public-health-focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada directing prosecutors that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for the personal possession of drugs, except where public safety concerns arise.In May 2022, at the request of the Province of British Columbia, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health granted a time-limited exemption under the CDSA so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, where appropriate, individuals may be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they could also receive assistance to connect with those services. British Columbia requested this exemption, and it is an additional way that the federal government is supporting the province’s comprehensive approach to the overdose crisis. This time-limited exemption will be supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes. The results will help inform Canada’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance use harms. We have also received a request from Toronto Public Health, and we are working in close partnership to ensure both public health and public safety considerations are included. We will continue to work with willing jurisdictions to use all the tools at our disposal, including approaches related to decriminalization, to respond to this crisis.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 27, 2023441-01131441-01131 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABFebruary 10, 2023March 27, 2023February 6, 2023Petition to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipWhereas:
  • The application backlog since 2015 has grown to over 2.2 million applications;
  • Work permit applications submitted under International Experience Canada have a service standard of 56 days, but only 24% met this standard;
  • Skilled Trades Programs applications via Express Entry have an 80% goal of reaching the service standard of 180 days, but only 8% met this standard;
  • New visitor visa applications have an 80% goal of reaching the service standard of 14 days, but only 27% met this standard;
  • New parent and grandparent Super Visa applications have an 80% goal of meeting the service standard of 112 days, but only 41% met this standard;
  • Certificate of identity applications have a 90% goal of meeting the service standard of 20 days, but only 15% met this standard;
  • Refugee travel document applications have a 90% goal of meeting the standard of 20 days, but only 15% met this standard; and
  • An updated immigration system, where reuniting families, allowing Canadian charities to have a more responsible role in bringing persecuted refugees to Canada, and addressing the nation's workforce needs through employer driven processes, is needed.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to update the immigration system to pave the way for efficient and streamlined processes that address Canada's ongoing needs.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.With unprecedented interest in Canada from people looking for a new place to work, study and build their lives with their families, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to receive high volume of applications across all our programs. We’ve had a record-breaking year in 2022, rendering more than 5.2 million final decisions for permanent residence, temporary residence and citizenship applications and nearly doubling the number of final decisions produced in 2021 (2.7 million).Nevertheless, the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and successive international humanitarian crises have led to increased processing times for many applicants, including long waits for application updates. We understand how difficult and frustrating this can be for our clients, sponsors, and representatives, and we are committed to improving the client experience.Over the past year, the Department has taken steady action to reduce application backlogs and help build a more modern, client-focused immigration system. We hired more than 1,250 employees1, introduced 100% online intake for key permanent residence lines of business2, digitized applications, and harnessed automation technologies to increase processing efficiency while protecting the safety and security of Canadians. In support of client service, the Department recently rolled-out client application status trackers for Express Entry applicants, in addition to those already in place for Family Class and Citizenship. This online service allows clients to securely view the status of their application. We have also made improvements to our client support centre, including hiring additional staff, and automating the triage of email correspondence.In 2023 and beyond, we will continue to implement various initiatives supporting our nation’s commitments to: reunite families, allow refugees and their families to find safe and permanent resettlement pathways, and address the needs of the rapidly changing Canadian labour market. Some planned initiatives include:
  • A policy review of Canada’s immigration system to better respond to the needs of a 21st century, as announced in Budget 2022.
  • A commitment of $50 million in funding for 2022–2023, a portion of which will be dedicated to address ongoing application backlogs, speed up processing and allow skilled newcomers to fill critical labour gaps faster.
  • Examination of broader regularization pathways for undocumented migrants and their families. Pathways to permanent residence will offer more opportunities for individuals to enter or stay in the job market and fill labour shortages. 
  • Reforms to Express Entry system which allow the Minister more flexibility to invite Express Entry candidates that meet Canada’s labour market needs.
  • Digital Platform Modernization to replace the Department’s aging IT platform, while redesigning business processes and advancing policy simplification, enabling us to improve the client experience and respond quickly to changing conditions and new priorities.
  • A commitment of  $6.2 million over three years (2022-2023 to 2024-2025) to Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) NGO partners that will increase their capacity to help refugees, and people in refugee-like situations, access economic immigration programs (e.g. client identification and referral).
As this work progresses, the Department will continue to engage key program stakeholders and update Canadians on its backlog and processing time reduction efforts, publishing monthly data on our website.1 Hired between spring and fall 2022 to help reduce inventories, with additional hires planned for 2023.2 Alternative formats remain available for all who request that option.    
Government servicesImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 17, 2023441-01161441-01161 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABFebruary 17, 2023April 17, 2023February 6, 2023Petition to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipWhereas:
  • The application backlog since 2015 has grown to over 2.2 million applications;
  • Work permit applications submitted under International Experience Canada have a service standard of 56 days, but only 24% met this standard;
  • Skilled Trades Programs applications via Express Entry have an 80% goal of reaching the service standard of 180 days, but only 8% met this standard;
  • New visitor visa applications have an 80% goal of reaching the service standard of 14 days, but only 27% met this standard;
  • New parent and grandparent Super Visa applications have an 80% goal of meeting the service standard of 112 days, but only 41% met this standard;
  • Certificate of identity applications have a 90% goal of meeting the service standard of 20 days, but only 15% met this standard;
  • Refugee travel document applications have a 90% goal of meeting the standard of 20 days, but only 15% met this standard; and
  • An updated immigration system, where reuniting families, allowing Canadian charities to have a more responsible role in bringing persecuted refugees to Canada, and addressing the nation's workforce needs through employer driven processes, is needed.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to update the immigration system to pave the way for efficient and streamlined processes that address Canada's ongoing needs.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.With unprecedented interest in Canada from people looking for a new place to work, study and build their lives with their families, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to receive high volume of applications across all our programs. We’ve had a record-breaking year in 2022, rendering more than 5.2 million final decisions for permanent residence, temporary residence and citizenship applications and nearly doubling the number of final decisions produced in 2021 (2.7 million).Nevertheless, the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and successive international humanitarian crises have led to increased processing times for many applicants, including long waits for application updates. We understand how difficult and frustrating this can be for our clients, sponsors, and representatives, and we are committed to improving the client experience.Over the past year, the Department has taken steady action to reduce application backlogs and help build a more modern, client-focused immigration system. We hired more than 1,250 employees1, introduced 100% online intake for key permanent residence lines of business2, digitized applications, and harnessed automation technologies to increase processing efficiency while protecting the safety and security of Canadians. In support of client service, the Department recently rolled-out client application status trackers for Express Entry applicants, in addition to those already in place for Family Class and Citizenship. This online service allows clients to securely view the status of their application. We have also made improvements to our client support centre, including hiring additional staff, and automating the triage of email correspondence.In 2023 and beyond, we will continue to implement various initiatives supporting our nation’s commitments to: reunite families, allow refugees and their families to find safe and permanent resettlement pathways, and address the needs of the rapidly changing Canadian labour market. Some planned initiatives include:
  • A policy review of Canada’s immigration system to better respond to the needs of a 21st century, as announced in Budget 2022.
  • A commitment of $50 million in funding for 2022–2023, a portion of which will be dedicated to address ongoing application backlogs, speed up processing and allow skilled newcomers to fill critical labour gaps faster.
  • Examination of broader regularization pathways for undocumented migrants and their families. Pathways to permanent residence will offer more opportunities for individuals to enter or stay in the job market and fill labour shortages. 
  • Reforms to Express Entry system which allow the Minister more flexibility to invite Express Entry candidates that meet Canada’s labour market needs.
  • Digital Platform Modernization to replace the Department’s aging IT platform, while redesigning business processes and advancing policy simplification, enabling us to improve the client experience and respond quickly to changing conditions and new priorities.
  • A commitment of  $6.2 million over three years (2022-2023 to 2024-2025) to Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) NGO partners that will increase their capacity to help refugees, and people in refugee-like situations, access economic immigration programs (e.g. client identification and referral).
As this work progresses, the Department will continue to engage key program stakeholders and update Canadians on its backlog and processing time reduction efforts, publishing monthly data on our website.1 Hired between spring and fall 2022 to help reduce inventories, with additional hires planned for 2023.2 Alternative formats remain available for all who request that option.
Government servicesImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00957441-00957 (Media and telecommunications)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCDecember 14, 2022January 18, 2023December 12, 2022Petition to the Government of Canada WHEREAS:
  • Current penalties for violations of telemarketing rules and data usage as per Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation are weak and largely ineffective;
  • The federal government has failed to protect the 68,061 Canadians that fell victim to fraud in 2021;
  • The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reported $383 million lost to fraud in the last year; and
  • A significant number of Canadians are harassed by spam phone calls and text messages every day.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately implement a comprehensive Anti-Spam Strategy and stop the harassment of unsolicited and fraudulent phone calls and text messages to Canadian consumers.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HON. FRANÇOIS-PHILIPPE CHAMPAGNEReceiving unsolicited telecommunications is a serious concern for many Canadians. Unsolicited telecommunications, which often are fraudulent in nature, seek to not only take advantage of Canadians, but also undermine their confidence in the telecommunications system and the electronic marketplace. The Government of Canada, along with Canada’s national telecommunications regulator, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), have introduced targeted measures to respond to the wide range of unsolicited phone calls, faxes, social media messages, texts, and e-mails that Canadians may receive. Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) plays an important role in building trust in the digital environment. CASL prohibits companies from sending individuals commercial electronic messages without their consent, including email, social media and text messages; altering the transmission data in an electronic message so the message is sent to a different destination without your express consent; installing software on your electronic devices without your consent; using false or misleading representations to promote products or services online; and collecting personal information by accessing a computer or electronic device illegally and collecting and/or using email or other electronic addresses without permission. Recognizing the significant social and economic burden created by spam in Canada and around the world, CASL was created in order to protect Canadian consumers and businesses from the inconvenience, costs, and risks associated with spam and has been largely effective in addressing these challenges.To illustrate, since CASL came into force in 2014, the amount of spam originating from Canada has decreased by more than one-third. A 2015 Cloudmark study showed that within a year of the legislation being introduced, there was a 37% decrease in Canadian-based spam and 29% less email overall (spam or legitimate) in Canadians' in-boxes. Also, whereas Canada figured among the top five spam-producing countries before CASL came into force, today it no longer appears among the top 20. In 2014, Canada was home to a disproportionate number of spamming organizations with 7 of the top 100 located in our country. Today, there is not a single Canadian organization figuring on the Spamhaus 100 Known Spam Operations list, which are responsible for 80% of spam worldwide (Spamhaus is an international non-profit organization tracking spam and other cyber threats and providing intelligence to the internet's major actors including law enforcement agencies). Since CASL came into force, the amount of spam that reaches Canadians has continuously decreased, and the international anti-spam legislative framework, of which CASL is a key element, have meant a decrease in the global spam rate, which has fallen from 90% in 2015 to 45.1% in 2021.Three government agencies share the responsibility for enforcing the Act: the CRTC (primary enforcement responsibility), the Competition Bureau and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner. Significant penalties can be imposed by these independent agencies for CASL violations. Enforcement agencies have a variety of options at their disposal to ensure compliance with CASL, including negotiated agreements, warning letters and administrative monetary penalties (AMPs).
  1. The CRTC can issue administrative monetary penalties (AMPs) for violations of sections 6 through 9 of CASL; AMPs are designed to promote compliance.The maximum penalty per violation is $1,000,000 in the case of an individual, and $10,000,000 in the case of an organization.
  2. The Competition Bureau can seek AMPs or criminal sanctions under the Competition Act; the consequences associated with being found to have engaged in deceptive marketing practices depend on whether the conduct falls under the civil or criminal provisions of the Competition Act. Civil provision (making a false or misleading representation): the Court may order to stop engaging in such conduct, to publish a corrective notice and/or to pay an AMP. For individuals, the penalty can be up to $750,000 for a first-time violation and up to $1 million for subsequent incidents. For corporations, the penalty can be up to $10 million for a first-time violation and up to $15 million subsequently. Criminal provision (knowingly or recklessly making a false or misleading representation): summary conviction: Fine of up to $200,000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year. Conviction on indictment: Fines are at the discretion of the Court and imprisonment can be for up to 14 years.
  3. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada focuses on 2 types of violations: collecting personal information by accessing a computer system or electronic device illegally and harvesting electronic addresses.
These recent examples of enforcement actions by the three enforcement agencies illustrate CASL’s efficiency in combating spam and other electronic threats and of its imposed penalties:CASL enforcement by the CRTC:Since CASL came into force in 2014, the CRTC has issued $1.9 million in AMPs against violators. For example, in January 2021, the CRTC’s Chief Compliance and Enforcement Officer issued administrative monetary penalties totalling $300,000 to four Canadians for their involvement with a company in the Dark Web Marketplace known as CanadianHQ, which subsequently shut down.In December 2021, the CRTC reached an agreement with Gap Inc. (Gap) for allegedly violating CASL. In addition to implementing corrective measures, Gap agreed to make a payment of $200,000. Gap proactively made changes to its marketing practices to meet CASL requirements. This investigation was supported by complaints received from Canadians.CASL enforcement by the Competition Bureau:The Competition Bureau has recently concluded these cases involving provisions of the Competition Act which came into force with CASL. To resolve the Bureau’s concerns, Avis/Budget agreed to pay $3 million in penalties, as well as $250,000 towards the Bureau’s investigative costs, while Amazon agreed to pay $1 million in penalties, as well as $100,000 towards the Bureau’s investigative costs. Hertz – Dollar Thrifty agreed to pay $1.25 million in penalties, and Enterprise Rent-a-Car Canada agreed to pay $1 million in penalties.CASL enforcement by the OPC:The Privacy Commissioner has pursued CompuFinder for a separate violation under the address-harvesting provision of CASL and entered into a compliance agreement with that company. In June 2017, the Commissioner also completed an investigation into Wajam Internet Technologies Inc., a Canadian company that distributed an unsolicited add-on to its program to track users online and collect personal information. As a result of the investigation, the company ceased those practices.Unsolicited Telecommunications Rules:In addition to CASL, the Government of Canada has put in place robust policies to help Canadians reduce the number of unsolicited telephone calls and faxes they receive. The CRTC is responsible for enforcing the Unsolicited Telecommunications Rules, which include the National Do Not Call List (DNCL) Rules, the Telemarketing Rules and the Automatic Dialing and Announcing Device (ADAD) Rules. The DNCL is designed to reduce the number of unsolicited telemarketing calls and faxes Canadians receive by allowing consumers to place their telephone and fax numbers on a registry of numbers that telemarketers are not allowed to contact. Secondly, the Telemarketing Rules detail specific limits on when telemarketing can be conducted, as well as other requirements on the conduct of telemarketers. Lastly, the ADAD Rules set out restrictions for telemarketers that seek to use devices that dial telephone numbers automatically and deliver a pre-recorded message, sometimes referred to as ‘robocalls’.The CRTC takes violations of these rules very seriously and can issue penalties if a telemarketer breaks them. Penalties can be issued for up to $1,500 per violation for an individual and up to $15,000 per violation for a corporation.  Since the Unsolicited Telemarketing Rules came into force in 2008, the CRTC has issued $11,263,427 in penalties against those who have violated the Rules.However, the Unsolicited Telemarketing Rules are designed to reduce but not eliminate telemarketing calls and faxes. Some telemarketing calls and faxes are exempt from the National DNCL, including those made by or on behalf of registered charities, newspapers, political parties and their candidates, organizations conducting market research, polls or surveys and companies that have an existing business relationship with the person they are calling.The Government of Canada also recognizes that Canadians may receive fraudulent telephone calls.  As opposed to legal telemarketing, these unsolicited communications constitute a criminal act under the Criminal Code and are often made by nefarious actors operating outside of Canada.  Fraudulent telephone calls are a significant source of concern for Canadians and that is why the Government of Canada continues to take concrete actions to combat these crimes.The CRTC, as Canada’s national telecommunications regulator, is responsible for setting requirements for Telecommunications Service Providers (TSPs) to take specific initiatives to combat fraudulent telecommunications. For example, the CRTC sets requirements for industry to implement technical solutions that prevent unsolicited and fraudulent calls from reaching Canadians, such as universal call blocking, which requires TSPs to block calls at the network level when caller identification (ID) information either exceeds 15 digits or when it does not conform to a number that can be dialled, e.g., 000-000-0000. The CRTC is also working to leverage industry expertise in developing new strategies to fight fraud.  For example, in December 2021, the CRTC approved a request from Bell Canada to permanently implement a call blocking solution that uses artificial intelligence to prevent scam calls originating from outside of Canada from reaching Canadians. From July 2020 to September 2022, this initiative prevented over 1.5 billion calls from reaching Canadians.The CRTC has also required industry to develop a standardized, industry-wide call traceback process in order to determine the origin of unsolicited and fraudulent calls. The CRTC has approved final recommendations from industry regarding the traceback process and has set out its expectation that all TSPs participate in the traceback process. The CRTC required a joint industry-CRTC working group (the CRTC Interconnection Steering Committee or CISC) to provide quarterly status reports on the number of initiated tracebacks and the results, along with analysis and recommendations regarding failed attempts to trace calls. The latest quarterly status reports show that the call traceback process for fraudulent calls made from within Canada will continue to become more effective as more TSPs participate.The CRTC also works with industry to alert Canadians if an incoming call may be part of a scam. This is important given the rise of caller ID spoofing, which is when the caller ID of an incoming telephone call is falsified by the scammer. Since November 30, 2021, TSPs have implemented a new framework to combat caller identification (ID) spoofing referred to as Secure Telephone Identity Revisited/Signature-based Handling of Asserted Information using toKENs or STIR/SHAKEN. This approach works by notifying Canadians whether an incoming voice-over-Internet protocol call originates from a number that has been authenticated. This framework will directly combat scams where fraudsters spoof the caller ID of organizations in an attempt to defraud their victims.TSPs were required by the CRTC to submit an implementation readiness assessment report before the launch of STIR/SHAKEN in November 2021.  The CRTC has also required TSPs to submit status reports every 6 months regarding their continuing efforts to deploy STIR/SHAKEN until the framework is fully implemented.  In May 2022, reports from TSPs were received covering a period from September 2021 to February 2022. These reports indicate that TSPs had largely implemented STIR/SHAKEN for voice calls travelling over the internet while continuing to work on upgrading their legacy equipment that does not support STIR/SHAKEN.  In November 2022, status reports from TSPs were received covering a period from March 2022 to August 2022. These reports indicated that many carrier interconnections continue to use technology that does not support STIR/SHAKEN and that TSPs must continue to upgrade this equipment.  Similarly, the reports showed that the number of mobile handsets that can display STIR/SHAKEN information being sold by carriers is increasing, but that some consumers will need to upgrade their devices before they can take advantage of STIR/SHAKEN. The full implementation of the STIR/SHAKEN framework is a complex initiative and international organizations, equipment manufacturers, handset manufacturers and other partners are also responsible for implementing key aspects of the framework.  While some Canadians are already receiving verified and signed calls, it is expected that, over time, this approach will become more effective as TSPs upgrade their networks and more Canadians use telephones that work with this approach.  Requiring the implementation of leading-edge technology solutions to fight unsolicited calls while collaboratively working with industry to ensure their successful implementation will further contribute to a safer and stronger telecommunications sector in Canada.Finally, in addition to strong collaboration with industry and international partners, the best tool in combatting fraudulent calls may be increasing consumer awareness by sharing information concerning current threats. The RCMP, the Competition Bureau, and the Ontario Provincial Police operate the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), which is a key organization when it comes to increasing the availability and accessibility of fraud data. This organization works closely with national and international partners to proactively identify emerging domestic and international scams and threats. When it receives information on a fraud case, the CAFC analyzes the associated data and disseminates relevant information to numerous partners, including law enforcement organizations, telephone companies, email service providers, financial institutions, and credit card companies. In so doing, it can hinder communications between fraudsters and potential victims, and, at times, it has successfully contributed to blocking the receipt and laundering of victims’ funds. Furthermore, the CAFC’s website includes an up-to-date list of scams, including by type of medium, such as telephone, as well as information for Canadians about how to protect themselves from fraud and what to do if they are a victim of fraud.The Government is also taking steps to enhance the quality of information on fraud in Canada by improving the processes by which Canadians can report fraud. For example, the RCMP’s National Cybercrime Coordination Unit (NC3) and the CAFC are developing a new National Cybercrime and Fraud Reporting System to improve the processes used to report fraud and cybercrime incidents to law enforcement. The NC3 will reach full operating capability in 2024.The Government of Canada will continue to pursue technical and regulatory solutions to protect Canadians, the Canadian telecommunications system and electronic commerce infrastructure.
Allegations of fraud and fraudSpamTelephone systems and telephony
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01249441-01249 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 30, 2023May 15, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 8, 2023441-01339441-01339 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 25, 2023June 8, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023441-01356441-01356 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 26, 2023June 9, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01090441-01090 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00934441-00934 (Justice)LeslynLewisHaldimand—NorfolkConservativeONDecember 6, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00925441-00925 (Justice)MarcDaltonPitt Meadows—Maple RidgeConservativeBCDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00923441-00923 (Justice)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00920441-00920 (Justice)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00922441-00922 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01251441-01251 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 30, 2023May 15, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians are committed to upholding the protection of international human rights;Canadians recognize that ethnic, religious, and other minority groups are routinely targeted around the world by human rights violators; andBill C-281, the International Human Rights Act, seeks to add additional protection against human rights violations and promote a stronger role for Parliament in that fight.Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to quickly adopt Bill C-281, the International Human Rights Act.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada is consistently a strong voice for the promotion and protection of human rights which is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Human rights are indivisible, universal and interdependent; they are inherent to everyone regardless of their race, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, ethnicity, religion or other identifying factors.Canada works with a range of partners, bilaterally and multilaterally, to support other countries in upholding their human rights commitments and advance accountability for human rights violations. Canada also continuously strives to further promote and protect human rights at home, in keeping with fundamental commitments contained in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and its many international obligations.The fight against all forms of systemic racism and discrimination requires ongoing commitment and cooperation. The engagement from members of all parties during the study of Bill C-281 by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development is a positive sign in that respect. The Government looks forward to continuing to monitor the progress of the bill as it makes its way through Parliament.
C-281, An Act to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act, the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (Sergei Magnitsky Law), the Broadcasting Act and the Prohibiting Cluster Munitions ActCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledOctober 5, 2023441-01611441-01611 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 18, 2023October 5, 2023November 29, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 23, 2023441-01124441-01124 (Public safety)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNDPBCFebruary 8, 2023March 23, 2023September 27, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Fireworks harm the environment, and environmental harm is entangled with the well-being of both people and animals;
  • The well-being of both people and animals are entangled with the environmental crisis; the issues of animal welfare, human well-being and climate change are interrelated;
  • Fireworks are a source of pollution and toxic debris, and can adversely impact environmental and human health through water and soil contamination, and reduced air quality;
  • Animal welfare organizations across Canada consider fireworks to be a serious health and welfare risk to pets, farm animals and wildlife;
  • People who suffer from PTSD would like to see an end to the explosions; and
  • Amazing drone shows give the audience a visual feast and leave memorable memories, 3D creative animation with gorgeous colors of light show beauty and movement.
We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to replace fireworks display and retail sales, and instead support drone shows.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.The Explosives Act and the Explosives Regulations, 2013 administered by the Government of Canada, provides a comprehensive framework related to explosives safety.  Included in this framework are controls on manufacturing, sale, storage, and use of fireworks.The Government of Canada works to ensure that fireworks can be safely enjoyed by Canadians while minimizing their impact on the environment and human health, including:
  • All fireworks are evaluated before they are placed on the Canadian market using the Authorization Guidelines for Consumer and Display Fireworks, which detail the strict acceptance criteria for fireworks.
  • All chemical compositions in fireworks are assessed and evaluated to ensure there are no prohibited chemicals.
  • Fireworks are regularly tested at the Canadian Explosives Research Laboratory to ensure they meet the strict criteria. During these tests, the sound levels for the fireworks are routinely measured to confirm they are under the noise thresholds.
  • All display fireworks shows must be conducted in full compliance with the Explosives Regulations, 2013 to ensure the safety of the public and the pyrotechnicians.
The Government of Canada is committed to the well-being of our communities and will continue to explore ways, including policy, regulatory and legislative revisions, to ensure the responsible and safe use of fireworks and other ways to celebrate, including drone shows.
FireworksRemotely piloted aircraft
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00710441-00710 (Social affairs and equality)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCSeptember 27, 2022November 14, 2022September 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • The Government of Canada is setting to remove charitable status from pregnancy centres simply on the basis that they do not conform to a worldview as prescribed by the Liberals;
  • Pregnancy centres in Canada play a valuable role in assisting women with information on the rights and resources available to them;
  • Women depend on pregnancy centres for access to counselling, practical prenatal classes and necessities like food, cribs, strollers, diapers, etc.; and
  • Many pregnancy centres are volunteer and faith-based organizations who make a positive social impact in the community.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to protect the charitable status of all pregnancy centres and allow pregnant women the right to be informed of all family planning options available to them.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsCounselling servicesPregnancy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00615441-00615 (Culture and heritage)Hon.MichaelChongWellington—Halton HillsConservativeONJune 20, 2022September 20, 2022June 8, 2022Petition to the Parliament of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, would like to draw the attention of the House to the following:The statue of Emily Murphy on Parliament Hill should be replaced. Emily Murphy was a racist and classist individual who should not be seen as a representation of women's suffrage or activism. She was vocal about her support of forced sterilisation and even went so far as to bring an appeal to the Alberta supreme court, resulting in over 2,800 people being sterilised against their will. There are dozens of documentations of her xenophobic viewpoints that she was not shy to share. Although Emily Murphy was instrumental in the Persons Case and allowing for women to be elected to the Senate, she should not be viewed as someone Canada is proud of. Many other Canadian women would be a much better monument of women's rights that should be explored.Therefore, Citizens of Wellington-Halton Hills requests that parliament remove the statue of Emily Murphy on Parliament Hill to have it replaced with a Canadian woman that better upholds Canadian moral values.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleWe thank the petitioners for their request regarding the removal of the statue of Emily Murphy on Parliament Hill. Canadian Heritage’s Policy on National Commemorative Monuments on Federal Lands in Canada’s Capital Region states that where commemoration projects involve federal lands for which Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is responsible, the location, theme and design of a monument should align with the long-term plans and vision of PSPC. Further questions on this matter should be raised with the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Speaker of the Senate. It should be noted that the statue was relocated to Plaza Bridge in 2019 for the duration of the Centre Block rehabilitation on Parliament Hill.  
Murphy, EmilyParliament HillStatuesValues of Canadians
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00599441-00599 (Environment)DarrenFisherDartmouth—Cole HarbourLiberalNSJune 16, 2022September 20, 2022June 14, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition. 
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.   
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00273441-00273 (Environment)SeanCaseyCharlottetownLiberalPEMarch 24, 2022May 9, 2022December 13, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada.  Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00057441-00057 (Environment)LloydLongfieldGuelphLiberalONDecember 13, 2021January 31, 2022December 7, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for countless individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to those workers and communities that have relied upon traditional energy sources.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures:
    • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
    • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
    • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.                                    
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 29, 2022441-00223441-00223 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 21, 2022April 29, 2022November 22, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas.  The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits.  The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics.  The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors.  The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less isolated areas of the country.  The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems.  The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging.  Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion.  It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system. It is important that the Government receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00021441-00021 (Environment)RachelBendayanOutremontLiberalQCNovember 30, 2021January 31, 2022November 24, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels, and assists the Global South in cutting emissions by 80%, by 2030;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures: 
    • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
    • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
    • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for countless individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to those workers and communities that have relied upon traditional energy sources.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00074441-00074 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas, Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Whereas, tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;Whereas, in August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;Whereas, the Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post-2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi`s maternity ward in May 2020 or the targeted attacks in Behsud (Maidan Wardak province), Jibrail (Herat) and Jalalabad (Nangarhar) from January to March of 2021;Whereas, Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban;Whereas, Afghanistan remains one of the largest recipients of Canada's international financial assistance;Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide. 2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day. 3. Support Bill C-287 to ensure that all development assistance sent from Canada to Afghanistan is contributing to the peace and security of the region for all peoples.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan. Canada denounced the tragic attack on May 8, 2021, against a girls’ high school in Kabul, which claimed the lives of 85 people, mostly young Hazara girls. Attacks such as this are a visible demonstration of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, forced conversions and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and prosecution of the Hazara population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again. The determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must however be done by a competent international or national court or tribunal, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to which Canada is a party.Canada has repeatedly shared its concerns on the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances. With the Taliban’s return to power, Canada recognizes that Afghanistan is at a pivotal moment, and is closely monitoring developments on the ground. One of Canada’s foreign policy priorities is to ensure the respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that all ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.In 2021, the Government of Canada announced a total of $133 million in humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan. Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan and Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups over the past two decades. Canada is exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders and remote monitoring activities of the human rights situation by human rights bodies from outside of Afghanistan. Going forward, receiving unbiased and verified accounts of human rights atrocities will be crucial for the international community’s decision-making around its future engagement with the Taliban.On August 13, 2021, Canada announced a special humanitarian program to focus on particularly vulnerable Afghan nationals, including religious and ethnic minorities. Canada’s special immigration program has already brought thousands of Afghans, including Hazaras, to Canada, and teams across the world continue working to bring many more Afghans to safety.
AfghanistanGenocideHazarasInternational development and aid
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00544441-00544 (Health)PeterJulianNew Westminster—BurnabyNDPBCJune 7, 2022August 17, 2022June 5, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned Citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS, one-in-five Canadians - close to 7.5 million people - either has no prescription drug coverage at all, inadequate insurance to cover their medication needs or effectively has no coverage due to high deductibles and co-payments to cover their costs; WHEREAS, over 2 million Canadians fail to take their medication as prescribed because they can't afford the cost; a recent report from the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions estimated that this tragic situation results in hundreds of preventable deaths in Canada every year; WHEREAS, Canadians consistently pay among the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs due to our current patchwork of more than 100 public and 100,000 private insurance plans; prescription drugs represent the second largest category of spending in Canadian health care, surpassing spending on physician services - only hospitals cost more; WHEREAS, universal public drug coverage has been recommended by national commissions, federal committees, and advisory councils dating as far back as the 1940s; most recently, the Hoskins Advisory Council concluded that we could extend comprehensive prescription drug coverage to every Canadian, while saving $5 billion per year once fully implemented; WHEREAS, the Hoskins report was clear that implementing pharmacare will require sustained federal leadership, along with “long-term, adequate, secure and flexible” funding. In particular, the report calls for the federal government to cover any added costs the provinces and territories incur from the implementation of pharmacare; WHEREAS, according to the Hoskins report, pharmacare would reduce overall spending on prescription drugs in Canada by $5 billion per year; Businesses and employees would see their prescription drug costs reduced by $16.6 billion annually, while families will see their out of pocket drug costs reduced by $6.4 billion; WHEREAS, to establish universal pharmacare across Canada, Parliament must pass enabling legislation and the federal government must negotiate transfers with the provinces and territories. WHEREAS, like the Canadian Health Act, Bill C-213 lays out the conditions and criteria that provinces and territories must meet in order to receive federal funding under the program and includes things like tying federal funding to the core principles of public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility.THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the Government of Canada to support Bill C-213, An Act to Enact the Canada Pharmacare Act, legislation that would create a universal, comprehensive and public pharmacare program for all Canadians and follows the recommendations set out by the Hoskins Advisory Council.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): ADAM VAN KOEVERDENNo Canadian should have to choose between paying for prescription drugs and putting food on the table. Unfortunately, many are still forced to make this impossible decision. That is why our government continues to work with provinces, territories and stakeholders to ensure that Canadians have better access to the drugs they need.Budget 2022 announced that the federal government will continue its ongoing work towards a universal national pharmacare program. This will include tabling a Canada Pharmacare billand working to have it passed by the end of 2023, and then tasking the Canadian Drug Agency to develop a national formulary of essential medicines and bulk purchasing plan.On August 11, 2021, the Government of Canada announced the signing of the first agreement with the Government of Prince Edward Island (PEI) to inform the advancement of national universal pharmacare. Through this agreement, PEI will receive $35 million over four years in federal funding, to add new drugs to its list of covered drugs, and lower out-of-pocket costs for drugs covered under existing public plans for Island residents. Our government will use early lessons from PEI’s efforts to inform its ongoing work to advance national universal pharmacare. This agreement will also build on the foundational steps that are already in progress, including establishing a national strategy for drugs for rare diseases, a Canadian Drug Agency and a national formulary.Budget 2019 proposed to invest up to $1 billion over two years, starting in 2022-2023, with up to $500 million per year ongoing, to help Canadians with rare diseases access the drugs they need. We recognize that for many Canadians who require prescription drugs to treat rare diseases, the cost of these medications can be astronomically high.To support the development of a national strategy for drugs for rare diseases, a public and stakeholder engagement process was conducted in early 2021 and a What We Heard report summarizing key themes and feedback that emerged has been published on the engagement webpage here. Building on this engagement, Health Canada hosted targeted roundtables with stakeholders throughout April and May 2022 to help continue to inform the development of the framework for the national strategy. Our government is working to launch the national strategy for drugs for rare diseases in 2022 with the support of all those involved.Launched in 2021, the Canadian Drug Agency Transition Office (CDATO) is overseeing the creation of the Canadian Drug Agency (CDA) based on engagement with provinces, territories, and stakeholders. The Transition Office is providing dedicated capacity and leadership to develop a plan to establish the CDA in order to improve pharmaceutical system coordination and bolster related functions. Budget 2019 provided Health Canada with $35 million over four years, starting in 2019–20, to establish the CDATO.Work is also underway with partners to develop a national formulary. A national formulary would provide a comprehensive, evidence-based list of prescribed drugs and related products to support consistent patient access to treatments across the country. In July 2021, an arms-length organization, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH), established a multidisciplinary national panel to develop a draft formulary framework. Following broad consultations this past winter, the panel released its final report in June 2022. The panel’s proposed framework provides a roadmap for the development of a future national formulary that would include a broad range of safe, effective, evidence-based drugs and related products to meet the health care needs of Canada’s diverse population. More information is available on the CADTH website here.
Health care systemPrescription drugs
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00028441-00028 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022May 20, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the rule of law respect for human rights;
  • Bill S-226, the Sergei Magnitsky Law (Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act), states that the Canadian Government can apply sanctions against a foreign national, responsible for or complicit in, gross violations of human rights, and against a foreign public official, or an associate, responsible for or complicit in ordering, controlling, or otherwise directing acts of significant corruption;
  • Russia is the most corrupt country in Europe and ranking 129 out of 180 in the world based on Corruption Index;
  • Alexey Navalny, a Russian opposition leader, was poisoned with a Russian government controlled chemical weapon, Novichok, and imprisoned on February 3, 2021 on charges declared illegitimate and politically motivated by the European Court of Human Rights, as an act of political persecution for his anti-corruption activism;
  • Over 10,000 people have been detained during peaceful protests against the unlawful imprisonment of Alexey Navalny;
  • Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, The President of the United States' Administration, G7 Foreign Ministers and European leaders have expressed their condemnation of Alexey Navalny's imprisonment and detentions of Russian citizens, practicing their right to the freedom of assembly and expression through peaceful protest;
  • The Canadian government failed to join its allies, the United States, United Kingdom and the European Union, on March 2, 2021 in applying any sanctions on Russian officials or oligarchs connected to the poisoning of Alexey Navalny on a multilateral basis.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: 1. Impose sanctions, such as the Special Economic Measures Act and/or the Sergei Magnitsky Law, against individuals and entities who are associated with the regime of Russian President, Vladimir Putin, and who:i. are responsible for human rights violations against Russian activists; ii. have been identified by anti-corruption and rights activists as enablers of the government of President Vladimir Putin through corrupt practices; and,iii. are responsible for interfering in Canada through malign influence operations, such as intimidation campaigns targeting Canadian activists and critics of the government of Vladimir Putin and also disinformation campaigns that promote Russian government aligned disinformation. 2. Offer asylum to Russian activists and dissidents who face political persecution for expressing their political views or attending peaceful protests. 3. Adopt as part of Canada's foreign policy agenda with Russia, advocacy to end political violence and persecution against journalists and activists in Russia, and also advocacy for the immediate release of all unjustly detained political prisoners in Russia.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is deeply concerned about the state of democracy and political pluralism in Russia and has repeatedly condemned its increasingly brazen and reckless behaviour. The attack on Alexey Navalny, his treatment upon his return to Russia, and the violence against, and mass detention of, peaceful protestors and media during his trial is unacceptable, which Canada has made clear through both words and actions. In addition to a statement from the Minister of Foreign Affairs on September 2, 2020, Canada has also joined statements by the G7 and North Atlantic Council condemning the actions.In the January 26, 2021 G7 Foreign Ministers’ Joint statement, Canada, along with France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the European Union, condemned the politically motivated arrest and detention of Mr. Navalny. This statement also reiterated concerns vis-à-vis the detention of thousands of peaceful protesters and journalists, and called upon Russia to adhere to its national and international obligations, and release those detained arbitrarily for exercising their right of peaceful assembly.On August 20, 2021, on the one-year anniversary of the poisoning of Mr. Navalny, Canada joined the United States and the United Kingdom to reaffirm its condemnation of the assassination attempt of Mr. Navalny through the use of a nerve-agent of the “Novichok” group, a substance developed by Russia. In addition, Canada called on Russia to comply fully with the Chemical Weapons Convention, including its obligations to declare and dismantle its chemical weapons program.Russia’s ongoing treatment of Mr. Navalny continues to demonstrate its contempt for the rule of law and its willingness to violate the human rights of its people. Russia’s suppression of peaceful protests and its detention of more than 10,000 protestors, highlight a continuing pattern of targeting opposition voices and those it deems threatening.Canada will continue to work in a coordinated manner with allies and partners to prepare and implement effective and unified measures to condemn the worrying human rights trends in Russia.On March 21, 2021, Canada imposed sanctions on nine senior Russian administration officials in response to human rights violations committed in that country. The individuals targeted hold senior roles in the security apparatus and administrative structures involved in the attempted murder, arbitrary arrest, prosecution and sentencing of Mr. Navalny, as well as the repressive and sometimes violent crackdown on the protests that followed. This was the first time sanctions were imposed on Russian citizens through the Special Economic Measures Act for human rights abuses committed in Russia, rather than for actions related to the illegal occupation and attempted annexation of Crimea.In line with measures previously taken by the European Union and the United States, this action imposed consequences on Russia for its ongoing disregard for human rights and the rule of law, and communicated a clear message to Russia that Canada will not accept ongoing gross and systematic human rights violations continuing to take place at the hands of the State with impunity.With regard to those fleeing persecution, Canada has a robust asylum system and like all foreign nationals who are in Canada, Russian nationals have access to this system. Individuals who are eligible to make a claim can be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB), an independent, administrative tribunal. Board decisions are made by an independent decision-maker in accordance with the law, based on the merits of the specific facts presented in an individual case. To provide fair and efficient adjudicative justice, the IRB regularly monitors and updates country conditions in refugee-producing countries or regions.In addition to the in-Canada asylum system, Canada offers protection to persecuted people outside of Canada who have fled their country of origin through the Refugee Resettlement Program. Refugees having fled persecution in Russia and lacking options to permanently settle elsewhere may be eligible for resettlement to Canada through the privately sponsored or the government assisted refugee programs. Refugees who face immediate risks may be resettled under Canada’s Urgent Protection Program, through a referral by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. This program provides expedited resettlement to refugees whose life, liberty, or safety is immediately threatened.In July 2021, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the launch of a dedicated refugee stream to provide a safe haven for human rights defenders at risk who are fleeing persecution in their home country. Canada will become one of the first countries to offer a dedicated, permanent pathway for human rights defenders, and will resettle up to 250 human rights defenders per year, including their family members, through the Government-Assisted Refugees Program. The Government of Canada will work with Front Line Defenders and ProtectDefenders.eu, alongside other Canadian and international partners, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, to identify human rights defenders who face security risks and are in need of resettlement, and to find solutions for human rights defenders in need of protection. Russian human rights defenders having fled persecution may be eligible for resettlement under this new stream.Canada consistently advocates on the need for Russia to end political violence and repression and respect media freedom both bilaterally and in multilateral forums. This includes the trend of attacking opposition figures like Mr. Navalny and other forms of internal repression, such as new legislation, that shrinks the already small space for civil society. Canada has consistently urged Russia to release all those arbitrarily detained and fulfil its international obligations. For example, during the 2018 Universal Periodic Review of Russia’s human rights record at the UN Human Rights Council, Canada highlighted the need for Russia to “prevent and investigate beatings, threats and trials based on dubious charges of human rights defenders, journalists, political actors and civil society.” Canada will continue to work with UN organizations, the G7, the Organization for Security and Co-operation, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, and other relevant multilateral organizations to coordinate responses to the deteriorating human rights situation in Russia, and on Mr. Navalny’s case in particular.Most recently in December 2021, Canada issued a joint statement with Australia, the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States on Russian courts’ decision to forcibly close International Memorial and the Memorial Human Rights Centre. For more than three decades, Memorial has fulfilled a unique role in documenting historical crimes and recovering for posterity the memory of the tens of millions of victims of political repression in the country. Memorial has also advocated tirelessly for the protection of human rights in Russia, exposing appalling abuses, including in the North Caucasus, and maintaining a growing list of individuals it considers political prisoners. The claim by Russian authorities that the Memorial Human Rights Centre’s principled and peaceful work ‘justifies extremism and terrorism’ cannot be accepted. Memorial’s work has never been more needed.Canada, alongside its international partners, calls on Russia to uphold the international human rights obligations and commitments to which it has agreed, and we continue to condemn the Russian legislation on ‘foreign agents,’ which further silences independent voices and shrinks the space for civil society. The people of Russia, like people everywhere, have the right to freedom of expression and association, including in defense of their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Civil and human rightsEconomic sanctionsForeign policyRussia
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2022441-00296441-00296 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 11, 2022June 6, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, Ethiopia has experienced alarming bouts of unrest and violence in the last year.Whereas, conflict has engulfed the Tigray region of Ethiopia leading to egregious human rights abuses and a humanitarian crisis.Whereas, humanitarian actors and independent journalists and researchers have almost no access to the effected regions.Whereas, Ethiopian and Eritrean federal armed forces, forces affiliated with the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF), and Ethiopian regional and militia forces, have all taken part in the conflict.Whereas, credible reports indicate that war crimes, such as the indiscriminate shelling of civilian towns and villages, extrajudicial killings, at least one largescale massacre, looting, and sexual violence, have all occurred in Tigray.Whereas, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with increasing reports of rising hunger, limited access to food and other life-saving assistance, and a collapsed healthcare system in the Tigray region.Whereas, Ethiopia is one of the largest recipients of Canada's international assistance.Whereas, elections are scheduled to take place in Ethiopia later this year.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Immediately call for an end to violence and for restraint from all sides/parties involved in the Tigray conflict.2. Immediately call for humanitarian access to the region and for independent monitoring to be allowed.3. Immediately call for international investigations into credible reports of war crimes and gross violations of human rights law.4. Engage directly and consistently with the Ethiopian and Eritrean Governments on this conflict.5. Promote short, medium, and long-term elections monitoring in Ethiopia.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights, democracy, and fundamental freedoms, as well as the protection of civilians, are all integral elements of Canada’s position on foreign policy. The Government of Canada is committed to standing up for human rights and striving for a world where the well-being, rights, and freedoms of all people are protected and respected.On March 24, 2022, the Government of Ethiopia announced a humanitarian truce and efforts to advance a cessation of hostilities and to allow immediate humanitarian access. On March 25 2022, the Tigray regional state authorities promised an immediate ceasefire if the people of Tigray received humanitarian aid equivalent to their needs within a reasonable timeframe. Canada welcomes these commitments and urges all parties to the conflict to allow and facilitate rapid and unhindered passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need, as required by international humanitarian law. The Government of Canada is working closely with its humanitarian partners, including UN agencies, the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement, and non-governmental organizations, to help address the immediate life-saving needs of affected populations, both within Ethiopia and those who have sought safety as refugees in Sudan. In 2021, Canada provided more than $43 million to address humanitarian needs in Ethiopia, including those arising from the conflict.The Government of Canada, along with its G7 partners and other members of the international community, is deeply concerned by serious human rights violations and abuses as well as violations of international humanitarian law in Ethiopia. Furthermore, it is disturbed by evidence of widespread sexual violence by all parties across a number of regions in Ethiopia, including Afar, Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray. The Government of Canada unreservedly condemns the killing of civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, indiscriminate attacks, and the forced displacement of civilians.In 2021, the Government of Canada supported two resolutions at the Human Rights Council which called for an end to human rights violations in Ethiopia. Canada was also a major donor, with a contribution of $600,000, to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission’s joint investigation into the allegations of human rights violations and abuses, and of serious violations of international humanitarian law committed by parties to the conflict. On November 6, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of International Development issued a joint statement on the release of the investigation report by the United Nations and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and expressed the Government of Canada’s concerns about the findings. The Government of Canada acknowledges the Government of Ethiopia’s decision to create an Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Accountability and Redress of Violations Committed to oversee redress and accountability measures in response to human rights violations committed in the conflict in northern Ethiopia.The Government of Canada is also deeply concerned by the alarming trend of mass detentions of individuals from certain groups, such as ethnic Tigrayans, and urged the Government of Ethiopia to allow unhindered and timely access to detainees. These concerns were expressed on December 6 through a joint statement with Australia, Denmark, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The statement on detentions in Ethiopia highlighted that the Ethiopian government’s announcement of a state of emergency on November 2 is no justification for the mass detention of individuals from certain ethnic groups.On November 8, 2021, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with President Faki of the African Union Commission to discuss the rapidly deteriorating situation in Ethiopia, in particular, the intensification of the armed conflict, the humanitarian crisis, and human rights abuses as well as to reinforce the key partnership between Canada and the African Union. The Minister of Foreign Affairs also spoke on November 25, with Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Demeke Mekonnen to convey the Government of Canada’s concerns regarding the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation and military escalation in the country, and to reiterate Canada’s call for an immediate ceasefire. She has discussed the crisis on several occasions with G7 counterparts and others about this crisis, including with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken.Since November 2021, the Prime Minister has spoken five times with Prime Minister Abiy about the developments in northern Ethiopia and the importance of working toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict. This includes an immediate cessation of hostilities, the importance of the announcement by the Government of Ethiopia on March 24 of an open-ended indefinite humanitarian truce, and inclusive dialogue among all parties. The Prime Minister has reiterated the international legal obligation to ensure further access to, and delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict and has raised Canada’s concerns about human rights. The Prime Minister also held calls regarding the situation in Ethiopia with UN Secretary-General Guterres and with African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa Obasanjo, amongst others, to reinforce Canada’s commitment to supporting efforts to end the conflict peacefully.The Government of Canada has repeatedly called for the establishment of a clear inclusive political process that is acceptable to all Ethiopians, including the citizens of Tigray, and which leads to a wider national reconciliation process. On June 25, 2021, Canada, with like-minded partners, issued a statement on the Ethiopian elections, calling on the Government of Ethiopia and all stakeholders to establish a broad-based national dialogue process and to commit to peaceful solutions. Canada funds programs that support the strengthening of Ethiopia’s democratic institutions, with a special focus on ensuring the participation of women, youth, and ethnic groups in the electoral process. In February 2020, the Government of Canada contributed $1 million to help strengthen the capacity of the National Election Board of Ethiopia to conduct credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections. Canada will continue to support democratic and electoral reforms that are beneficial to and inclusive of all Ethiopian citizens. Canada does not provide budgetary support or other development assistance directly to the Government of Ethiopia.
Civil and human rightsElectoral observation missionsEthiopiaForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workers
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 2, 2022441-00766441-00766 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 19, 2022December 2, 2022April 21, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online. This is a very important issue, and the Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians.The Government takes note of the petitioners’ concerns surrounding the volume of sexually explicit material on the Internet, and the harm it presents to young people. Many young people are utilizing these online platforms and can be particularly vulnerable to online harms such as incitements of violence, sexual harassment, physical threats online, and many more other harms. The Government is committed to addressing these concerns.As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content.From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. Subsequently, a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ was released on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways. The Minister also convened an Expert Advisory Group, composed of 12 experts from diverse backgrounds, which met over the course of the spring. The group’s discussions included topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online The work of the expert advisory group concluded on June 10, 2022, and summaries of their discussions have been posted online. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlThe Minister of Canadian Heritage is currently conducting roundtables on online safety to understand the perspectives of those who would be most impacted by the legislation. Over the last few months, roundtables have taken place in cities across Canada, as well as virtually. Additionally, there have been engagements with international jurisdictions to better understand their approach to online harms and the protection children and youth. The government sees this as a serious issue and will continue to explore avenues that will best support our youth.The Government will take some time to further engage with civil society, experts, stakeholders and interested groups to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online, especially as it pertains to young persons.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 14, 2022441-00422441-00422 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMay 9, 2022June 14, 2022April 20, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding protecting young persons online – a very important issue. The Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians. As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content, including child sexual exploitation content and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.The Government is committed to getting this right. From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The Government subsequently released a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways from the consultation. As a next step following the release of the report, on March 30, 2022, the Government announced the creation of an expert advisory group to generate advice on a revised legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The advisory group’s objective is to provide advice to support the Government in developing legislation on online safety. The group’s discussions include topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online, child sexual exploitation, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.  Engagement with the expert group is done in an open and transparent manner, so that all interested parties can follow along. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlAll Canadians should be able to express themselves online without being subject to hateful or threatening attacks. The Government will take some time to further engage with experts, stakeholders and interested parties to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00450441-00450 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 11, 2022August 17, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, Alberta's Industrial Heartland is one of the world's most attractive locations for chemical, petrochemical, oil, and gas investment.Whereas, Alberta's Industrial Heartland is Canada's largest hydrocarbon processing region and has 40+ companies, several being world scale, provide fuels, fertilizers, power, petrochemicals, and more to provincial, national and global consumers. Whereas, energy-related manufacturing plays a crucial role in Canadian energy development and security, and in providing jobs and opportunity for Canadians. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to: 1. Advance policies which support growth in Alberta's Industrial Heartland and growth in energy-related manufacturing in general; and 2. Support permanent accelerated capital cost allowance for energy related manufacturing.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTImportance of the energy sector/clean tech to Canada:
  • Canada’s energy sector is a key contributor to employment, economic growth and social development in Alberta and across Canada. As we move forward to transform our economy towards a net-zero future, workers and innovators are going to be an essential part of this transition building on the innovation and expertise across the energy sector. 
  • Building on the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, our new strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, announced in December 2020, continues to advance the next generation of clean technology and grow the role of renewable energy. It includes $15 billion in investments for 64 strengthened and new federal policies, programs and investments to cut pollution and build a stronger, cleaner, more resilient and inclusive economy.
  • We are committed to promoting clean economic growth by helping Canadian businesses take advantage of the massive transition that Canada and the global economy must make to reach the target of net-zero emissions.
  • We are committed to continuing to work with the sector to grow the economy, and to better align climate change objectives, including achieving emissions reductions through innovation across the energy sector.  
Federal support for energy sectorGovernment of Canada investments:
  • $3 billion since 2016 to help Canadian companies innovate, develop new and improved technologies, reduce carbon pollution, strengthen competitiveness and create jobs. This includes investments in things like clean energy, clean hydrogen, carbon capture, use and storage, wind, solar, energy storage and smart grids.
  • Infrastructure improvements to help the transition away from coal, which will make it easier for affordable clean energy.
  • $750 million over five years for Sustainable Development Technology Canada to support startups and scale up companies to enable pre-commercial clean technologies to successfully demonstrate feasibility, as well as support early commercialization efforts.
  • $50 million to invest in technologies and $100 million to leverage private sector co-investments through the Clean Resource Innovation Network – a pan-Canadian network focused on ensuring Canada’s energy resources can be sustainably developed and integrated into the global energy supply.
  • Up to $1.72 billion, including funding to the governments of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia, and the Alberta Orphan Well Association, to clean up orphan and/or inactive oil and gas wells – creating thousands of jobs and having lasting environmental benefits.
  • Launching a Net-Zero Challenge for large emitters to support Canadian industries in developing and implementing plans to transition their facilities to net-zero emissions by 2050.
  • $3 billion in the Strategic Innovation Fund’s Net-Zero Accelerator Fund to rapidly expedite decarbonization projects with large emitters, scale-up clean technology and accelerate Canada’s industrial transformation across all sectors.
  • $1.5 billion in a Low-carbon and Zero-emissions Fuels Fund to increase the production and use of low-carbon fuels (e.g., hydrogen, biocrude, renewable natural gas and diesel, cellulosic ethanol).
  • $750-million Emission Reduction Funds provides loans for projects that reduce or eliminate greenhouse gas emissions with a focus on methane and supports reducing the greenhouse gas intensity of fuel production.  Projects that entirely eliminate methane have a non-repayable portion.
      
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada understands the importance of the region’s natural resources to Canadians, providing jobs and opportunities that contribute to the national economy. Canada will continue to play a key role in supplying the world’s future energy needs, as Canadians work towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The Government of Canada recognizes that the energy sector in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland has a significant role to play. A strong energy sector will help to ensure that the environment is protected as it drives economic growth.Ongoing and proposed federal support to Alberta’s Industrial Heartland energy sector includes:
  • Investing $1.5 billion in the Clean Fuels Fund, to support the build out of new domestic production capacity for clean fuels (e.g. renewable natural gas, hydrogen, advanced ethanol, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuels), the establishment of sustainable biomass supply chains, and the development of essential binational codes and standards.
  • Developing a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy to cut industrial emissions, including the introduction of a refundable investment tax credit for businesses that incur eligible CCUS expenses (starting in 2022), and investing $319M over seven years to support research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) to advance the commercial viability of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies.
  • Unveiling the Hydrogen Strategy for Canada that lays out an ambitious framework to help cement hydrogen’s role in reducing emissions and leading to economic benefits across Canada while also positioning Canada as a leader in hydrogen. Vast natural gas and petroleum resources endow Canada with a competitive advantage in the production of clean hydrogen. Funding of $1.35 million through Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) to modernize an Edmonton facility for Alberta firms to test their products and processes and ultimately to demonstrate the value of Canadian-made technologies for the global hydrogen industry.
  • Broadening the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s (CIB) role to invest in private sector-led infrastructure projects that will accelerate Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. This will allow the CIB to invest in small modular reactors; clean fuel production; hydrogen production, transportation and distribution; and carbon capture, utilization and storage.
  • Advancing plans to eliminate plastic waste in the environment through the circular economy. The knowledge and experience of the petrochemical industry in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland will be instrumental in the development of valuable solutions using plastic waste. Developing the circular economy presents an opportunity for the energy sector to re-imagine its refining capacity.
Alberta’s Industrial Heartland plays an important role in Canada’s sustainable development. There are many positive examples of interrelated industries already working together in the region, benefitting from the Heartland’s unique characteristics, economic opportunities, and the high-quality renewable carbon feedstock produced by the energy sector. The Government of Canada will continue to work with the Government of Alberta and Heartland stakeholders to grow energy-related manufacturing in a way that adds value to the province’s hydrocarbon sector, and will support the region as it embraces an increasingly low-carbon future.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of Canada’s energy sector, which directly and indirectly supports hundreds of thousands of middle class families and their communities. As the Government of Canada works to build a more sustainable and resilient economy, an industrial advantage will depend on the speed and success of decarbonization efforts, ability to meet the demands of domestic and global consumers for low-carbon goods and services, and efforts to rapidly scale up low-carbon technologies. Canadian workers and businesses are well-positioned to lead the growth of a strong Canadian economy that thrives in a low-carbon world and provides sustainable jobs.Support for Energy-Related ManufacturingCanada’s industrial sectors – such as manufacturing, chemicals, cement and oil and gas – play a key role in the economy, and will be vital in the transition towards a net-zero future. Canada’s strengthened climate plan, “A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy”, was announced in December 2020 and contains 64 strengthened and new federal policies, programs and investments to reduce emissions and build a stronger, cleaner, more resilient and inclusive economy. The Plan includes $3 billion for the Strategic Innovation Fund – Net Zero Accelerator to support the adoption and deployment of decarbonization solutions in Canadian industry and $1.5 billion to increase the production and use of low- carbon fuels. A focus of the government as it transitions to a net-zero economy will be on supporting the rapid scale up of existing and new, strategic clean technologies and supporting the market for clean fuels in Canada, including through Canada’s Hydrogen Strategy. The government is committed to working with Canadian businesses and workers in advancing a net-zero economy. Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies are an important tool for reducing emissions in high-emitting sectors, including Alberta’s energy sector, where other pathways to reduce emissions may be limited or unavailable. For that reason, CCUS technologies will play a role in helping Canada reach its emissions reduction target and net-zero emissions by 2050. Investments made in CCUS will help to ensure the sustainability of economic activity in Alberta’s energy sector and Industrial Heartland.The government proposed in Budget 2022 the final design of the investment tax credit for CCUS that was first announced in Budget 2021. The investment tax credit would be refundable, and provide significant support for business that incur eligible CCUS expenses starting in 2022, with the goal of reducing emissions from CCUS by at least 15 megatonnes of CO2 annually.The credit would provide support to reduce the large, upfront capital costs associated with the construction of CCUS, with a rate as high as 50 percent for equipment to capture CO2, and 60 percent for this equipment in the case of direct air capture projects. Tax support will be available for a broad range of CCUS applications across different industrial subsectors, including blue hydrogen projects, and could be used to help reduce emissions in oil and gas, chemical production, electricity generation, or other sectors. The investment tax credit would be available for CCUS projects to the extent that captured CO2 goes to an eligible use, which includes dedicated geological storage, or storage in concrete, but does not include enhanced oil recovery.In Budget 2021, the government also invested $319 million over seven years, starting in 2021-22, with $1.5 million in remaining amortization to support research, development, and demonstration activities for carbon capture, utilization, and storage technologies through Natural Resources Canada.Support for Alberta and the Energy SectorCanada’s strengthened climate plan builds off previous measures targeted at the energy sector as part of the government’s COVID-19 economic response. Due to the unprecedented challenges for workers and companies in the energy sector as a result of the pandemic, the government allocated $2.8 billion to support energy sector workers and help the industry reduce its emissions. This includes $750 million for the Emissions Reduction Fund to help oil and gas companies reduce methane emissions, $1.7 billion to the Western provinces and Alberta Orphan Wells Association to support work to clean up orphan and inactive oil and gas wells, and $320 million for Newfoundland and Labrador to support workers in the offshore sector. This funding will sustain jobs in the energy sector, while also supporting the broader energy-related supply chain.Support through Accelerated Capital Cost AllowancesIn the 2018 Fall Economic Statement, the Government of Canada introduced the Accelerated Investment Incentive, which provides an enhanced first-year capital cost allowance of up to three times the first-year allowance otherwise available for all businesses, including in the energy sector. For businesses in the manufacturing and processing sector, including energy transformation, the 2018 Fall Economic Statement also announced an enhanced first-year capital cost allowance of 100 percent for investments in machinery and equipment. These measures will be available for investments that become available for use before 2028, subject to a phase-out starting in 2024.
AlbertaDepreciation allowanceOil and gas
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00811441-00811 (Health)GlenMotzMedicine Hat—Cardston—WarnerConservativeABOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022March 16, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online. This is a very important issue, and the Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians.The Government takes note of the petitioners’ concerns surrounding the volume of sexually explicit material on the Internet, and the harm it presents to young people. Many young people are utilizing these online platforms and can be particularly vulnerable to online harms such as incitements of violence, sexual harassment, physical threats online, and many more other harms. The Government is committed to addressing these concerns.As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content.From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. Subsequently, a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ was released on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways. The Minister also convened an Expert Advisory Group, composed of 12 experts from diverse backgrounds, which met over the course of the spring. The group’s discussions included topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online. The work of the expert advisory group concluded on June 10, 2022, and summaries of their discussions have been posted online. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlThe Minister of Canadian Heritage is currently conducting roundtables on online safety to understand the perspectives of those who would be most impacted by the legislation. Over the last few months, roundtables have taken place in cities across Canada, as well as virtually. Additionally, there have been engagements with international jurisdictions to better understand their approach to online harms and the protection children and youth. The government sees this as a serious issue and will continue to explore avenues that will best support our youth.The Government will take some time to further engage with civil society, experts, stakeholders and interested groups to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online, especially as it pertains to young persons.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00110441-00110 (Economy and finance)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, Alberta has historically been the economic driver of Canada, contributing over $200 billion in the last ten years despite unprecedented economic issues;Whereas, anti-energy and resource development policy by the current Liberal government has significantly contributed to these unprecedented economic issues that continue to impact Alberta;Whereas, in 2019 the Liberal government locked in the unfair equalization formula until 2024 without consultation or negotiations;Whereas, the changes made to the Government of Canada's Fiscal Stabilization Program did not properly account for the hundreds of billions of dollars Alberta has contributed to Federal Revenues, amounting to a slap in the face of Albertans;Whereas, the unemployment rate in Alberta continues to be amongst the highest in Canada;Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to immediately take action by:1. Acknowledging the oversized economic contribution Alberta has made to Canada and the significant economic hardship the province is currently facing. 2. Immediately re-opening the negotiations for the equalization formula with the provinces.
Response by the Prime MinisterSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government recognizes that Alberta is indispensable to the social and economic fabric of Canada and it iscommitted to supporting Alberta families, workers and businesses. The Government provides significantfinancial support to all provinces and territories to support social programs. In 2021-22, Alberta will receive$6.8 billion through major transfers to help pay for health care, education and other social services.The Government of Canada is committed to fostering productive relationships with all provinces andterritories, including Alberta.The Government recognizes that Albertans have faced economic challenges in recent years due to declines incommodity prices and limited capacity to export products, including oil.Equalization is the Government of Canada’s transfer program used to reduce fiscal disparities amongprovinces. The principle of Equalization is set out in the Constitution, namely “to ensure that provincialgovernments have sufficient revenues to provide reasonably comparable levels of public services atreasonably comparable levels of taxation.” Equalization is funded entirely by the federal government fromgeneral revenues; provincial governments make no contributions to the Equalization program.Alberta does not receive Equalization because it has a higher-than-average ability to raise revenues, despite itsrecent economic challenges. Equalization reduces, but does not eliminate fiscal disparities; the fiscal capacitiesof non-receiving provinces remain above the national average.The current Equalization formula was introduced in 2007 by the previous Conservative government. In 2018,the federal government renewed the equalization program without changes.The Government of Canada will continue to work collaboratively with all provinces on Equalization in thelead-up to the next renewal of the program, which must take place before March 31, 2024. 
AlbertaEconomic slowdownEqualization formula
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00035441-00035 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the actions of the Government led by former Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau through the National Energy Program led to an intentional systematic assault on Alberta's ability to operate as an equal partner in the Canadian Federation, and further that those actions had a detrimental economic and societal impact on Alberta and its population that persist today. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the Government to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Have the current Prime Minister of Canada apologize for the actions of Former Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau and his Governments destructive the National Energy Program; 2. Affirm the rights of provinces to develop, manage, and market their natural resources.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada recognizes that Alberta is indispensable to the social and economic fabric of Canada and it is committed to supporting Alberta families, workers and businesses. The Government provides significant financial support to all provinces and territories to support social programs.The Government of Canada is committed to fostering productive relationships with all provinces and territories, including Alberta.The Government recognizes that Albertans have faced economic challenges in recent years due to declines in commodity prices and limited capacity to export products, including oil.The Government took significant action to assist Alberta’s economy with the 2018 purchase of Trans Mountain Corporation, which is overseeing the completion of the Trans Mountain Expansion project, which will significantly increase Alberta’s oil export capacity.We are committed to get Canadian resources to new markets, and offer unwavering support to those in Canada’s natural resource sectors who have faced tough times recently.The Government has also worked very closely with the Government of Alberta to manage the current COVID-19 situation in a number of areas. The Government is providing support to Albertans and Alberta businesses, including the oil and gas industry.The Government recognizes that energy-producing regions have faced the compounding challenges of COVID-19 and the shock to oil prices. In addition to a range of programs to support individuals and businesses, the Government has notably provided $1 billion to the Government of Alberta to support the province’s work to clean up inactive oil and gas wells across the province and $200 million to the Alberta Orphan Wells Association to support its work to clean up orphan oil and gas wells and well sites across Alberta.We know that Canada only succeeds when every region and province – including Alberta – succeeds.
Industrial policyOfficial apologyOil and gasProvincial jurisdiction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 20, 2022441-00367441-00367 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 6, 2022May 20, 2022February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the demand and the need for oil and gas in Canada is still many years away from being eliminated. Whereas, Alberta and Western Canada produces the most environmental oil and gas with the highest labour standards compared to other countries.Whereas, Canadians should be only using oil and gas from Alberta and Western Canada before importing any other country. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Eliminate all importation of foreign oil and gas into Canada within the next five years; thus, creating more jobs and building a better economy.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Many major Canadian oil and gas companies have committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The federal government is working with them to do so by placing a decreasing cap on emissions from the sector, as the Prime Minister announced at COP26 in November 2021.As Canada moves towards net-zero emissions by 2050, the Government wants to ensure the continued prosperity of energy workers across Canada. To that end, the Minister of Natural Resources has asked Canada Energy Regulator to undertake scenario analysis consistent with Canada achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This includes fully modelled scenarios of supply and demand of all energy commodities in Canada, including clean fuels, electricity, and oil and gas. This will take place as the federal government works with municipalities, provinces, Indigenous groups, unions, and industry to ensure that energy workers from coast to coast to coast are front and center of the transition toward a clean future for Canadians.Crude oil is a globally-traded commodity for which purchasing decisions are dictated by supply and demand fundamentals. Canada’s market-based energy framework allows the private sector to determine crude oil and petroleum product flows. Companies make their own decisions based on market conditions.
ImportsOil and gas
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00969441-00969 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00004441-00004 (Natural resources and energy)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCNovember 24, 2021January 31, 2022February 3, 2020PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:THAT, WHEREAS the Trudeau administration has announced it will spend $4.5 billion of public funds on acquiring the existing Trans Mountain pipeline from Kinder Morgan;WHEREAS this $4.5 billion is not inclusive of construction costs for the expansion, projected to increase the cost of the deal to over $11 billion; WHEREAS the pipeline was valued at $550 million by Kinder Morgan in 2007; WHEREAS the expansion still has to pass the National Energy Board's 157 conditions and over a dozen court challenges before it can be built; WHEREAS during the election, Trudeau promised to overhaul the Harper administration's deeply flawed pipeline approval process, respect Indigenous rights, and end fossil fuel subsidies; WHEREAS a diluted bitumen spill would devastate local ecosystems and economies on the West Coast, or any area surrounding the 800 bodies of water its path crosses; WHEREAS there is no proven way to clean up a diluted bitumen spill in a marine environment; WHEREAS shipping out unprocessed diluted bitumen to refineries in other countries ships out Canadian jobs; and WHEREAS the Trans Mountain expansion will; lock in oil-sands production growth that cannot be reconciled with Canada's greenhouse gas emissions reduction commitments, increase the risk of a diluted bitumen spill, violate the rights of Indigenous communities along the pipeline route, threaten Indigenous communities reliant on the marine environment for their livelihood and cultural practices THEREFORE, we, the undersigned, RESIDENTS OF CANADA, call upon the GOVERNMENT OF CANADA to immediately halt any plans to purchase the Trans Mountain pipeline or otherwise support its expansion.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about Canada making additional investments in the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMEP).The environment and the economy go hand-in-hand. When we create prosperity today, we can invest in the clean jobs, technologies, and infrastructure of the future — and help Canadians benefit from opportunities presented by a rapidly changing economy.The key to creating prosperity is finding new markets for our businesses to sell their products and services. Nowhere is the need to diversify greater than for our energy sector, where 99 per cent of our conventional resources are sold to one market — and often at large discounts.Canadians understand that we need to open up new international markets, in order to get a full and fair price, support workers and their families, and foster competitiveness.The Government’s approval of TMEP was based on the confidence that:
  • strong environmental protections have been and continue to be put in place, and that the effects of TMEP can be mitigated through conditions and recommendations outlined by the National Energy Board, as well as measures including the historic $1.5 billion Oceans Protection Plan and the national climate plan.
  • consultations with Indigenous peoples involved meaningful, two-way dialogue, which fulfilled the legal duty to consult and helped identify new accommodation measures and conditions to appropriately address potential impacts on Indigenous rights and concerns expressed by Indigenous communities.
Once TMEP enters into service, TMC expects to earn tolls that more than cover the cost of constructing the TMEP. These tolls are underwritten by long-term agreements with shippers for 80 per cent of TMEP’s capacity for 15 and 20 years. The final toll charged to shippers will be determined only after the TMEP enters into service based on the final construction cost.Trans Mountain’s experience with the current pipeline system also demonstrates the robust demand for export capacity to tidewater. Since the onset of the global pandemic in March 2020 and a corresponding collapse in oil demand, the Trans Mountain pipeline continued to be fully utilized while other pipelines struggle with demand.In addition, the Government launched the second step of its engagement process with Indigenous groups on June 9, 2020, to explore the possibility of Indigenous economic participation in the Project. In this step of the engagement process, the Government is focused on building consensus on the form of economic participation in the Project preferred by participating Indigenous groups; and identifying or supporting the formation of one or more entities to represent participating Indigenous groups in negotiations with Canada.By moving forward with TMEP, the Government is creating jobs, diversifying markets, accelerating Canada’s clean energy transition, and opening up new avenues for Indigenous economic prosperity.
NationalizationOil and gasTrans Mountain pipeline
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00010441-00010 (Indigenous affairs)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONNovember 26, 2021January 31, 2022February 28, 2020PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Canadian constitutional law is accountable to the human rights obligations outlined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples;
  • Canada has also committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action;
  • The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has called on Canada to:
    • immediately suspend work on the Coastal GasLink pipeline until free, prior, and informed consent is obtained from Indigenous Peoples;
    • Immediately cease the forced eviction of Wet'suwet'en Peoples;
    • Prohibit the use of lethal weapons against Indigenous Peoples and guarantee no force will be used against them;
    • Withdraw the RCMP and associated security and policing services, from traditional lands;
  • Hereditary Chiefs have the right to grant consent, or not, for activities on their territories; and,
  • The Coastal GasLink project has the potential to release massive amounts of methane through the extraction, transport, liquefaction and regasification processes
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Commit to upholding the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action by immediately:
    • Halting all existing and planned construction of the Coastal GasLink project on Wet'suwet'en territory;
    • Ordering the RCMP to dismantle their exclusion zone and stand down;
    • Schedule nation-to-nation talks between the Wet'suwet'en Nation and federal and provincial governments; and,
    • Prioritize the real implementation of UNDRIP.
Response by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jaime BattisteThe Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations (CIR) would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their interest in the Wet’suwet’en Nation and Coastal GasLink pipeline project. The Government endorsed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2016 and on June 21, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act received Royal Assent and immediately came into force.  Canada is in the process of implementing the Declaration.The former Minister of CIR and the former British Columbia Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation met with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs between February 27 and 29, 2020. These talks initially focused on two separate topics: the recognition of Wet’suwet’en Aboriginal rights and title throughout their territory, and the issues arising out of the Coastal GasLink project. These topics were discussed separately. The parties made the decision to keep the pipeline matter separate from rights and title discussions, as the pipeline remains entirely within the jurisdiction of British Columbia and therefore is most appropriately addressed bilaterally between Wet’suwet’en and the Province.Canada, British Columbia, and the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 14, 2020, which broadly recognizes Wet’suwet’en rights and title throughout the Yintah (traditional territory) and that Wet’suwet’en rights and title are held by Wet’suwet’en Houses under their traditional system of governance. Ongoing nation-to-nation talks are focused on exploring a path forward toward substantive agreements that would describe future governance, areas of jurisdiction, and the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title.  The federal Government remains committed to reconciliation with all Indigenous Peoples, including the Wet’suwet’en Nation. Despite the recent escalation of protest and enforcement activities, CIR is engaged in regular and ongoing negotiations with Wet’suwet’en and British Columbia with respect to the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title within the territory.
Coastal GasLink Pipeline ProjectIndigenous rightsWet'suwet'en First Nation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00116441-00116 (Indigenous affairs)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 1, 2022March 21, 2022March 10, 2020PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Canadian constitutional law is accountable to the human rights obligations outlined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples;
  • Canada has also committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action;
  • The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has called on Canada to:
    • immediately suspend work on the Coastal GasLink pipeline until free, prior, and informed consent is obtained from Indigenous Peoples;
    • Immediately cease the forced eviction of Wet'suwet'en Peoples;
    • Prohibit the use of lethal weapons against Indigenous Peoples and guarantee no force will be used against them;
    • Withdraw the RCMP and associated security and policing services, from traditional lands;
  • Hereditary Chiefs have the right to grant consent, or not, for activities on their territories; and,
  • The Coastal GasLink project has the potential to release massive amounts of methane through the extraction, transport, liquefaction and regasification processes
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Commit to upholding the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action by immediately:
    • Halting all existing and planned construction of the Coastal GasLink project on Wet'suwet'en territory;
    • Ordering the RCMP to dismantle their exclusion zone and stand down;
    • Schedule nation-to-nation talks between the Wet'suwet'en Nation and federal and provincial governments; and,
    • Prioritize the real implementation of UNDRIP.
Response by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JAIME BATTISTEThe Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations (CIR) would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their interest in the Wet’suwet’en Nation and Coastal GasLink pipeline project. The Government endorsed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2016 and on June 21, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act received Royal Assent and immediately came into force.  Canada is in the process of implementing the Declaration.The former Minister of CIR and the former British Columbia Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation met with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs between February 27 and 29, 2020. These talks initially focused on two separate topics: the recognition of Wet’suwet’en Aboriginal rights and title throughout their territory, and the issues arising out of the Coastal GasLink project. These topics were discussed separately. The parties made the decision to keep the pipeline matter separate from rights and title discussions, as the pipeline remains entirely within the jurisdiction of British Columbia and therefore is most appropriately addressed bilaterally between Wet’suwet’en and the Province.Canada, British Columbia, and the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 14, 2020, which broadly recognizes Wet’suwet’en rights and title throughout the Yintah (traditional territory) and that Wet’suwet’en rights and title are held by Wet’suwet’en Houses under their traditional system of governance. Ongoing nation-to-nation talks are focused on exploring a path forward toward substantive agreements that would describe future governance, areas of jurisdiction, and the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title. The federal Government remains committed to reconciliation with all Indigenous Peoples, including the Wet’suwet’en Nation. Despite the recent escalation of protest and enforcement activities, CIR is engaged in regular and ongoing negotiations with Wet’suwet’en and British Columbia with respect to the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title within the territory.
Coastal GasLink Pipeline ProjectIndigenous rightsWet'suwet'en First Nation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00381441-00381 (Justice)StephenEllisCumberland—ColchesterConservativeNSApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2022441-00309441-00309 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 29, 2022May 12, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00091441-00091 (Justice)BobZimmerPrince George—Peace River—Northern RockiesConservativeBCDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 7, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 10, 2022441-00462441-00462 (Justice)BenLobbHuron—BruceConservativeONMay 13, 2022June 10, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2022441-00308441-00308 (Justice)FrankCaputoKamloops—Thompson—CaribooConservativeBCMarch 29, 2022May 12, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00562441-00562 (Health)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJune 13, 2022September 20, 2022May 18, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The overdose crisis in Canada is a public health emergency, as has already been declared by British Columbia's Provincial Health Officer and several municipalities across Canada;
  • More than 13,900 individuals have died of opioid-related deaths and there have been 17,050 opioid-related poisoning hospitalizations in Canada since 2016;
  • There is disproportionate representation of Indigenous people affected by the overdose crisis; and
  • The Canadian Public Health Association, the Global Commission on Drug Policy, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations, have recommended drug decriminalization.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Declare a public health emergency due to overdose deaths in Canada;
  • Reframe the overdose crisis in Canada as a health issue rather than a criminal issue;
  • Take a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to the overdose crisis, by addressing issues of addiction, poverty, housing, health care, racial discrimination, and economic inequality and instability;
  • Listen to and act on recommendations made by social workers, front-line workers, nurses, doctors, drug users, and individuals directly involved in the drug-using community; and
  • Decriminalize drugs in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Tragically, the most recent national data indicates that 29 052 apparent opioid toxicity deaths occurred between January 2016 and December 2021. Fentanyl and its analogues continue to be major drivers of the crisis with as many as 86% of accidental apparent opioid toxicity deaths in 2021 involving fentanyl.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the crisis has only become more complex due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade supply and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience, to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.With respect to the request to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency, the Emergencies Act is a federal law that can be used to respond to an urgent, temporary and critical national emergency that seriously endangers the lives, health or safety of Canadians, is of such proportions or nature that it exceeds the capacity or authority of a province to deal with it, and that cannot be dealt with effectively by any other law in Canada. The Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving opioid-related deaths and harms.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis and working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives. At the federal level, we have taken action by: reducing legislative and regulatory barriers; developing new prescription guidelines and marketing restrictions; launching a public awareness campaign; improving the knowledge base; supporting treatment, safe supply and harm reduction initiatives across Canada; and, providing emergency funding to provinces and territories.Provinces and territories have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. For example, provinces and territories fund and deliver the majority of direct social and health interventions, such as naloxone distribution and safer consumption sites, which are shown to effectively reduce overdoses deaths and harms. Provinces, territories and municipalities also have the power to declare a public health emergency in response to a significant increase in overdose-related deaths, as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta declaring a public health crisis in May 2017. More recently, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency in January 2022. The declaration of a provincial and territorial public health emergency allows a provincial and territorial government to access and exercise extraordinary powers to address a crisis. The Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving opioid-related deaths and harms.The Government recognizes that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach, and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. It includes four key pillars – prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and enforcement. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis and working with partners to save lives. Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant actions and made commitments of over $800M to address the overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • over $282 million to the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) through the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, Budget 2021 and Budget 2022 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services;
  • $200 million, with $40 million per year ongoing, to enhance the delivery of culturally appropriate addictions treatment and prevention services in First Nations communities;
  • more than $20 million for Naloxone distribution, education and training; and,
  • $13 million over five years to launch a new national, multi-year public education campaign to help reshape Canadians’ attitudes and perceptions about people who use drugs.
In addition to these investments, in order to prevent and reduce substance-related harms, the Government of Canada has undertaken a broad range of policy, legislative and regulatory actions, such as:
  • approving exemptions to establish supervised consumption sites (since January 1, 2016, the number of supervised consumption sites operating in Canada has increased from 1 to 39), and providing provincial and territorial class exemptions to facilitate the establishment of Urgent Public Health Need Sites (commonly known as overdose prevention sites);
  • reducing barriers to providing people who use drugs with safer, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives to the toxic illegal drug supply and supporting 25 safer supply service delivery projects in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, as well as a National Safer Supply Community of Practice, for a total investment of more than $73.5 million (note: the number of active projects is subject to change as sites open and close);
  • providing guidance and leadership on the prescribing, dispensing, and delivery of opioids and other narcotics during the pandemic;
  • creating new regulatory pathways under the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations used to authorize medication used to treat addiction not otherwise available (e.g., approving diacetylmorphine hydrochloride as a supervised injectable opioid agonist therapy for adult patients with severe opioid disorder and amending federal regulations to allow healthcare practitioners to provide diacetylmorphine-assisted treatment outside of a hospital setting, if permitted by their province or territory); and,
  • supporting the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which encourages people to seek emergency help at the scene of an overdose by providing some legal protection against simple drug possession charges.
The Mandate Letter of the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health calls on the Minister to, “Advance a comprehensive strategy to address problematic substance use in Canada, supporting efforts to improve public education to reduce stigma, and supporting provinces and territories and working with Indigenous communities to provide access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction, as well as to create standards for substance use treatment programs.” The Government of Canada is continuing to work with provincial, territorial, Indigenous and municipal officials on options to address their regional needs. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Problematic Substance Use and Harms to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. We are also collaborating with provinces and territories to better understand the evolving crisis, and undertaking timely monitoring and reporting of opioid-related deaths and harms in Canada. Public health officers from the Public Health Agency of Canada have been deployed to support public health surveillance systems in provinces and territories.In addition, engagement with civil society organizations, direct care service providers, academics, people with lived and living experience, and other key stakeholders continues to inform federal actions to reduce opioid-related overdoses and deaths and improve the health and wellbeing of Canadians who use drugs. For example, we continue to engage with stakeholders to inform them about safer supply and encourage them to look and work within their sphere of influence to remove barriers to this practice. Safer supply services provide a pharmaceutical alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply as a way to help prevent overdoses, improve the health of people who use drugs, and help connect people to trusted and supportive relationships in health and social services.Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of illegal drugs for personal use can perpetuate stigma, increase risks of overdose and other harms, and increase barriers to care. Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems to access supportive health and social services and build those truly important trusted relationships. In addition to the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act in May 2017, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada issued guidance to prosecutors directing that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for personal possession offences, except when there are serious aggravating circumstances.Furthermore, Bill C-5, which was reintroduced in the House of Commons on December 7, 2021, proposes legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments would encourage the use of diversion measures for personal drug possession offences, such as referral to health and social services, rather than laying a criminal charge. These amendments also propose to repeal mandatory minimum penalties for six offences in the CDSA to reflect the Government’s health-focused approach to substance use.On May 31, 2022, at the request of the province of B.C., the Federal Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health announced the granting of a time-limited exemption under the CDSA so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. More information on the exemption is available here. The exemption will be in effect from January 31, 2023 to January 31, 2026. Throughout the exemption period, the federal government will work with the province to rigorously monitor and evaluate implementation, analyze the data and evidence, and assess impact to ensure this exemption continues to be the right decision for the people of B.C.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01932441-01932 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 20, 2023January 29, 2024May 18, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Paul Chiang, M.P.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada.Immigration officers examine foreign charges and convictions to determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted of that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents, such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, the applicant may be eligible for relief, on a case-by-case basis, using mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob Oliphant(1) Canada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive economic, institutional and people-to-people ties. Canada strongly believes that a stable and prosperous Hong Kong depends on respect for human rights. Canada has consistently underscored this essential fact, both in Canada’s public pronouncements and communication with the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong authorities. Canada has consistently expressed its deep concern that the National Security Law is eroding respect for human rights. The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers expressed concerns in April 2023 about the National Security Law’s impact on the Hong Kong judicial system. In that report, the Special Rapporteur explained that the National Security Law can interfere with the independence of the judiciary, the ability of lawyers to exercise their profession independently, and the due process that guarantees the right to a fair trial in Hong Kong. Canada will continue to monitor all trials related to charges under the National Security Law and anti-sedition law, closely monitor developments in Hong Kong’s judiciary system, and will undertake appropriate action in response to emerging developments.(4) While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility. For Canada, foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada. With regards to human rights, Canada has repeatedly expressed its concern over the continued erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy and rights through joint statements with the G7 and the Media Freedom Coalition. Since 2019, these statements have specified shared concerns on the imposition of the National Security Law, the selection process of the Chief Executive in Hong Kong, changes to Hong Kong’s electoral system which barred opposition candidates from participation, and the deteriorating media environment in the region. Furthermore, Canada and like-minded countries each publicly expressed concerns about the Hong Kong authorities’ issuance of international bounties for pro-democracy advocates living overseas and reiterated opposition to the extraterritorial application of the National Security Law.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00545441-00545 (Environment)Hon.DavidMcGuintyOttawa SouthLiberalONJune 7, 2022August 17, 2022May 13, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00543441-00543 (Democratic process)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCJune 7, 2022September 20, 2022May 13, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Canada's electoral system from its very inception has always been a "First-past-the-Post" (FPTP) system, unfairly resulting in either a Liberal or Conservative government with virtually no opposition, no impact on the popular vote leading to distorted Canadian values;
  • Proportional Representation (PR) is a principle that says that the percentage of seats a party has in the legislature should reflect the percentage of the people who voted for that party, so that if a party gets 40% of the popular vote, they should get 40% of the seats;
  • In the 2021 election the Liberals had 32.62% winning 160 seats, Conservatives 33.74% winning 119 seats, Bloc Quebecois 7.64% winning 32 seats, NDP 17.82% winning 25 seats, People Party 4.94% winning 0 seat and Green Party 2.33% winning 2 seats;
  • Under a FPTP system, like the current system in Canada, a party can win a majority of seats and all the power with less than half the popular vote;
  • Proportional Representation (PR) ensures that majority governments have an actual majority of the voters (popular vote) backing them;
  • Many other countries such as Germany, Italy, Ireland, New Zealand and the Netherlands have progressed from a FPTP system to a PR System; and
  • Many American States are seeking to implement "Ranked Choice Voting" so that all votes are calculated.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to move to a "Proportional Representation” system to bring credible representation to Canadians.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is committed to improving and strengthening our democracy.  Our electoral system (i.e., the fundamental rules determining how votes are translated into seats in the House of Commons) is one of the most foundational pieces of our democracy – at its core is a question of how we, as Canadians, govern ourselves. The Government’s view has been clear: major reforms to the electoral system should not be made if they lack the broad support of Canadians.In 2016, the Government consulted broadly with Canadians on electoral reform. In fact, the electoral reform consultations were among the largest and farthest-reaching consultations ever undertaken by the Government of Canada.These public consultations included 57 parliamentary committee meetings that heard from 763 witnesses, 172 consultations undertaken by individual Members of Parliament, a cross-country Ministerial tour that made stops in 18 towns and cities across every province and territory, and online consultations that more than 360,000 people in Canada participated.The Government of Canada is thankful to all Canadians who took part in these consultations.The Government listened to Canadians carefully and gained valuable insights into Canadian democracy. Canadians cherish their democracy and value the direct connection they have with their Member of Parliament (MP). Canadians want their parliamentarians to work with each other and to cooperate on policy. They want their government to be accountable. They want their MPs to act in the interests of their constituents. The Government agrees.A clear preference for a new electoral system, let alone a consensus, did not emerge from these consultations. Consequently, the Government decided not to proceed with changing the electoral system.Our work did not stop there. The Government also took steps to modernize the electoral process and to make it more accessible, transparent and secure. The Elections Modernization Act, which passed in 2018, represents a generational overhaul of the Canada Elections Act, allowing it to better address the realities facing our democratic institutions in the 21st century. The Government of Canada will continue to work to strengthen and protect our democratic institutions.The first-past-the-post system has served this country for over 150 years and advances a number of democratic values Canadians hold dear, such as strong local representation, stability, and accountability.
Electoral reformProportional representation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00810441-00810 (Civil and human rights)GlenMotzMedicine Hat—Cardston—WarnerConservativeABOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, on the advice, guidance, and recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Government of Canada, including Transport Canada, put in place a range of measures to mitigate transportation safety and security risks associated with COVID-19.Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement a comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures, that have evolved throughout the pandemic, based on the best available science, as well as guidance from PHAC. The measures made a real difference in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and have kept Canadian travellers and transportation workers safe, ensuring the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation Sector: On June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. In addition, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors are no longer required to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees. Border Measures: On October 1, 2022, the Government of Canada removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, meaning that all travellers, regardless of citizenship, no longer have to:
  • submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
  • provide proof of vaccination;
  • undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
  • carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada.
COVID-19 Requirements in the Transportation Sector: In alignment with PHACs adjustments to border measures, Transport Canada also removed all existing travel requirements as of October 1, 2022. As such, travellers are no longer required to undergo health checks for air and rail travel, or wear masks on planes and trains. All travellers are strongly recommended to continue wearing high quality and well-fitted masks during their journeys. Cruise measures were also lifted, and travellers are no longer required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use ArriveCAN. A set of guidelines remain in place to protect passengers and crew, which align with the approach used in the United States.The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate measures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure. 
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00640441-00640 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJune 22, 2022September 20, 2022May 12, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The G&R Recycling facility in Kanehsatà:ke, Québec, has been reported to contain toxic waste without permits or precautions to prevent spillage into the environment;
  • Health experts cited in the Toronto Star identify this waste as a threat to human health and environmental watchdog groups warn that these toxins may eventually taint waterways that affect the lives of millions of citizens;
  • The G&R site is no isolated incident;
  • Throughout our country, there is a shameful legacy of unregulated and dangerous waste sites allowed to operate on Indigenous lands and adjacent to the homes of Canada's racialized populations;
  • Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is a national priority and a growing consensus is building around the need to act on environmental racism; and
  • Strong policies and the political will to act on them are needed to prevent future sites similar to G&R, from harming the health and well-being of coming generations of Indigenous and racialized citizens.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled:
  • To mobilize the vast resources of the federal government to immediately secure and decontaminate this dump site in Kanehsatà:ke and others like it; and
  • To put forward concrete plans to enact the measures addressing systemic environmental racism as now proposed in the Private Member's Bill C-226 (National Strategy Respecting Environmental Racism and Environmental Justice Act).
Response by the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern OntarioSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Vance BadaweyEnvironmental protection, including proper waste management, is a priority for Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and over the past few years, ISC programming has been greatly expanded. In 2016, the Government of Canada launched the First Nation Solid Waste Management Initiative (FNSWMI), allocating $409 million over five years to support the development of sustainable community waste management systems in First Nations communities through modern infrastructure, operations, training and partnerships. The FNSWMI was renewed in Budget 2017 with an additional $540 million over seven years starting in 2021-22. Budget 2021 also allocated another $195 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support the operation and maintenance of waste facilities that address the needs of the community. These investments are having a significant impact on the management of waste on reserve lands.In addition, if Bill 226, An Act respecting the development of a national strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and to advance environmental justice (National Strategy Respecting Environmental Racism and Environmental Justice Act) is passed by Parliament, ISC will support other government departments in the development of a National Strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and to advance environmental justice in Canada.G & R Recycling G.P. has not respected the conditions of the 2015 authorization issued by the Government of Quebec to operate the site. This authorization was therefore revoked on October 5, 2020. Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a directive under the Fisheries Act on November 18, 2020 advising G & R Recycling G.P. of “an unauthorized deposit of deleterious substances into waters frequented by fish” and instructed the company to implement a number of corrective measures. Subsequently, the Kanesatake Band Council revoked an authorization it had granted to the company on November 3, 2021.The potential negative impact that these activities are having on the environment and the people living in the area are very concerning. Indigenous Services Canada is supporting Environment and Climate Change Canada and Quebec’s ministère de l’environnement et de la lutte contre les changements climatiques in their discussions with the Band Council to find permanent solutions to this issue.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTIn Canada, the federal government applies “the polluter pays” principle that is, the party responsible for producing pollution should be responsible for paying for damage to the natural environment. Private companies are expected to clean up (or remediate) the land they contaminate. The provinces, territories and federal government are generally responsible for the cost to deal with contamination at the sites they own or lease.The Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP) was established in 2005 as a 15-year program with funding of $4.54 billion from the Government of Canada. The program was renewed for another 15 years (2020 to 2034) with $1.16 billion announced in Budget 2019 for the first five years, Phase IV which runs from 2020 to 2024. The objective of FCSAP is to reduce environmental and human health risks from known federal contaminated sites, including contaminated sites on reserve lands and in the North for which the federal government is responsible.In FCSAP Phase IV (2020 to 2024), custodians continue to remediate the highest priority federal contaminated sites – those that pose the highest risks to the environment and human health. For Phase IV, program eligibility criteria was expanded to improve program efficiency and to allow more sites to be addressed that may impact Indigenous people living on reserves or in Northern communities. Over the past three years, Environment and Climate Change Canada and Indigenous Services Canada have provided technical support to the Environment Office of the Mohawk Council of Kanesatake in order to help the community address environmental issues on its territory.Private Member's Bill C-226, An Act respecting the development of a national strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and to advance environmental justice, proposes the development of a national strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and advance environmental justice, in consultation or cooperation with any interested persons, bodies, organizations or communities — including Indigenous communities. The Prime Minister has confirmed support for the Bill, which aligns with the Government’s plan to develop an environmental justice strategy and examine the link between race, socio-economic status and exposure to environmental risk.    
Environmental contaminationG & R RecyclingKanesatake First NationWaste management
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00527441-00527 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 6, 2022August 17, 2022May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement a comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, to help keep Canadian travellers safe, and ensure the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.The public health and safety measures that the Government of Canada has implemented have been and will continue to be based on the best public health advice and science available. As the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved, so too have public health measures and advice. The Government of Canada will continue to evaluatemeasures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure.Vaccination continues to be one of the most effective tools to protect Canadians, including younger Canadians, the healthcare system and economy. Everyone in Canada needs to keep up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccines, including booster doses to get ready for the fall. The Government of Canada will continue to work with provinces and territories to help even more Canadians get the shots they are eligible for.Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation SectorIn August 2021, the Government of Canada announced mandatory vaccination requirements for the federal workforce, federally regulated transportation sector, and certain travellers. These requirements, which came into effect on October 30, 2021, made vaccination against COVID-19 a requirement to board a plane, train or certain vessels in Canada, and required federally regulated transport sector employers to put in place mandatory vaccination policies for their employees. To support the safe resumption of cruise ship travel, which began in April 2022, travellers and crew on cruise ships are also required to be fully vaccinated.On June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. Other public health measures, such as wearing a mask, continue to apply and will be enforced throughout a traveller’s journey on a plane or train. This change does not affect border measures that require all travellers entering Canada to continue following entry requirements, including vaccination.The Government of Canada’s decision to suspend the mandatory vaccination requirement for the domestic transportation sector was informed by key indicators, including the evolution of the virus; the epidemiologic situation and modelling (stabilization of infection and hospitalizations across the country); vaccine science; and high levels of vaccination in Canada against COVID-19.Federally regulated transportation sector employers: As of June 20, 2022, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors no longer need to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees. Employers will be responsible for establishing return-to-work practices.Cruise Travel: Given the unique nature of cruise ships, including the fact that passengers are in close contact with each other for extended periods of time, and Canada’s border requirements, vaccination against COVID-19 is still required for passengers and crew on cruise ships operating in Canadian waters. Adherence to strict public health requirements on cruise ships will still be required.Border MeasuresEarly in the pandemic, it was recognized that truckers and other workers performed services that were essential to keeping goods and services flowing, and they were allowed exemptions from strict border requirements put in place for most cross-border travellers.In January 2022, the Minister of Health, using the Quarantine Act, implemented vaccination requirements for some foreign national essential workers entering Canada, including Canadian and foreign national commercial truck drivers. The United States implemented similar measures in January as well, affecting foreign nationals.While the suspension of domestic vaccine mandates reflects an improved public health situation in Canada, the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve and circulate in Canada and globally. Given this context, and because vaccination rates and virus control in other countries varies significantly, current vaccination requirements at the border continue to remain in effect. This will reduce the potential impact of international travel on the health care system and serve as added protection against any future variant.  
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01530441-01530 (Civil and human rights)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBJune 13, 2023September 18, 2023April 26, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledOctober 26, 2022441-00649441-00649 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 20, 2022October 26, 2022March 29, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our 2030 emissions reduction target and stay on track to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, such as hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published soon.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables in June 2022. The initiative will accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.This work will be undertaken in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous groups, experts, labour organizations and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition. 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 19, 2022441-00359441-00359 (Foreign affairs)PhilipLawrenceNorthumberland—Peterborough SouthConservativeONApril 6, 2022May 19, 2022March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 85% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's implementation of visa-free travel for Ukrainians to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately waive all visa requirements and grant visa-free travel to Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada. Canada and Ukraine maintain a close friendship built on shared values and strong-people-to-people ties.Canada has implemented a number of effective immigration solutions to help the people of Ukraine, including the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on March 17, 2022. The CUAET is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) to seek temporary safe haven in Canada. This new measure eases many of the normal visa requirements, eliminates most application and processing fees, and offers accelerated processing.Canada’s visa policy decisions are made on a country-by-country basis. A range of objective criteria are considered before lifting a country’s visa requirement, involving a complex process similar to those of like-minded partners. Canada’s relationship with the country is a key consideration, but so too is the safety and security of Canadians, and the importance of maintaining a well-managed migration system. It takes time to complete a comprehensive visa review, and Ukrainians need help urgently. Ukraine’s visa requirement is not currently under review, but the situation is being monitored very closely to ensure the people of Ukraine continue to receive the support they need.
Passports and visasRefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00379441-00379 (Foreign affairs)BradRedekoppSaskatoon WestConservativeSKApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022March 24, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 85% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's implementation of visa-free travel for Ukrainians to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately waive all visa requirements and grant visa-free travel to Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada. Canada and Ukraine maintain a close friendship built on shared values and strong-people-to-people ties.Canada has implemented a number of effective immigration solutions to help the people of Ukraine, including the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on March 17, 2022. The CUAET is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) to seek temporary safe haven in Canada. This new measure eases many of the normal visa requirements, eliminates most application and processing fees, and offers accelerated processing.Canada’s visa policy decisions are made on a country-by-country basis. A range of objective criteria are considered before lifting a country’s visa requirement, involving a complex process similar to those of like-minded partners. Canada’s relationship with the country is a key consideration, but so too is the safety and security of Canadians, and the importance of maintaining a well-managed migration system. It takes time to complete a comprehensive visa review, and Ukrainians need help urgently. Ukraine’s visa requirement is not currently under review, but the situation is being monitored very closely to ensure the people of Ukraine continue to receive the support they need.
Passports and visasRefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01560441-01560 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 14, 2023August 16, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based.  This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00655441-00655 (Social affairs and equality)Hon.EdFastAbbotsfordConservativeBCSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01538441-01538 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 13, 2023August 16, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 18, 2022441-00346441-00346 (Health)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 4, 2022May 18, 2022March 25, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • The Government of Canada is requiring all domestic travelers be fully vaccinated against COVID-19;
  • Travelers who test negative and wear a mask while traveling are extremely unlikely to transmit the virus;
  • An estimated 0.5% of COVID-19 cases in Canada occurred through travel exposure, and that was prior to the imposition of a testing requirement for travelers;
  • Mobility rights are protected in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and can only be limited when those limitations are demonstrably justified; and
  • There are other mechanisms such as regular rapid testing and tracing that can be an alternative to those who do not choose to be vaccinated.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Allow any Canadian who has tested negative for COVID-19 and is prepared to wear a mask to travel by air, sea, or rail; and 2. Ensure that rapid testing is affordable and accessible in order to ensure the effective protection of public health.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government’s priority remains the health and safety of Canadians. Decisions regarding border measures are informed by available data, operational considerations, scientific evidence and monitoring of the epidemiological situation both in Canada and internationally.As of April 1, 2022, fully vaccinated travellers arriving at land, air or marine ports of entry are no longer required to complete a pre-entry test for entry to Canada. They remain subject to mandatory randomized testing on arrival to Canada.As of April 25, 2022, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated children between the ages of 5 and 11 are no longer required to complete a pre-entry COVID-19 test for entry to Canada if they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent or guardian, but will be subject to mandatory randomized testing on arrival to Canada.Unless otherwise exempt (such as unvaccinated/ partially vaccinated children aged 5-11 who are travelling with a fully vaccinated adult), travelers 5 years of age or older who are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated must continue to test on arrival and on day 8, provide a quarantine plan, quarantine for 14 days, and provide proof of an accepted type of pre-entry COVID-19 test result:
  • a valid negative antigen test, administered or observed by an accredited lab or testing provider, taken outside of Canada the day before or the day of the initially scheduled flight departure time or arrival at the land border or marine port of entry;
  • a valid negative molecular test taken no more than 72 hours before their initially scheduled flight departure  or arrival at the land border or marine port of entry; or,
  • a previous positive molecular test taken at least 10 calendar days and no more than 180 calendar days before their initially scheduled flight departure time or arrival at the land border or marine port of entry. It is important to note that positive antigen test results will not be accepted.
Children who are less than 5 years old are not required to test, regardless of their vaccination status. Unvaccinated foreign nationals are not permitted to enter Canada unless they meet one of a few exemptions.As of April 25, 2022, fully vaccinated travellers, children between the ages of 5 and 11 (who are accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult), and those with a medical contraindication to COVID-19 vaccination are no longer required to provide quarantine plans when travelling into Canada. Additionally for 14 days after arriving in Canada, fully vaccinated travellers are no longer required to:
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms;
  • mask while in public spaces;
  • quarantine if another traveller in the same travel group exhibits signs or symptoms or tests positive; and,
  • maintain a list of close contacts and locations. 
As COVID-19 continues to be present in Canada and internationally, the COVID-19 situation can change rapidly and can vary considerably from one destination to another, and even within regions of a country. The Public Health Agency of Canada advises travellers to continue to practice individual health precautions when travelling internationally. Travellers must continue to wear a mask during their trip (on board a flight or ship) and will be advised by government officials at the border when the mask may be removed. Travellers should understand the risks that are associated with international travel and take the necessary preventative measures; they are encouraged to continuously check travel advisories, COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements and confirm medical coverage with their travel insurance as well as other entry requirements for international travel.Travelling is not advised if someone:
  • is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, even if mild;
  • is under quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19;
  • has tested positive for COVID-19 or has symptoms of COVID-19 within the last 10 days;
  • is awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test; or,
  • has been in close contact with someone who has or is suspected to have COVID-19.
The Government of Canada is committed to reducing the prevalence of COVID-19 infections and limiting the impact of the disease on our health care system and economy. Through the Safe Restart Agreement, the Government of Canada has provided $4.28 billion to support provinces and territories with the costs of increasing their capacity to conduct testing, perform contact tracing, and share public health data that will help fight COVID-19. Furthermore, $1.7B was provided, in the Fall Economic Statement, to continue supporting provinces and territories in securing rapid testing supplies, including through expanded school and workplace testing programs. This funding also supported the procurement of additional rapid test kits for distribution to Canadians. Additionally, the ratification of Bill C-10 in February 2022 was instrumental to provide up to $2.5 billion to the Government of Canada to procure and purchase rapid tests to continue to support provinces and territories throughout the year and ensure tests remain accessible to Canadians.Since the start of the pandemic, as of April 14, 2022, the Federal Government has purchased and distributed to provinces and territories over 450.8M rapid tests to support testing programs across the country, including key sectors such as health care, long-term care homes, and schools. Throughout the pandemic, the Federal Government has been closely collaborating with provinces and territories to ensure widespread availability of rapid antigen tests in keeping with their different approaches for testing, screening and surveillance based on their individual circumstances and needs.The Government of Canada has facilitated widespread screening in workplaces across the country by distributing free rapid tests to small and medium sized organizations through pharmacies, directly to businesses with more than 200 employees, and to not-for-profit organizations via the Canadian Red Cross. With tests provided by the Federal Government, provinces and territories have also contributed to workplace screening efforts by enabling conditions for test administration, distributing tests directly to workplaces, and the establishing partnerships with local chambers of commerce to ensure equitable access to free tests.The Government of Canada has also helped ensure that vulnerable Canadians can access rapid tests through supporting the Canadian Red Cross initiative for community partners to distribute tests to their clients, and the North West Company and Arctic Co-ops to distribute tests to their customers in Nunavut and Northwest Territories. Northern, Remote and Isolated communities also receive rapid tests directly from the Federal Government.
COVID-19Health screeningPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2022441-00435441-00435 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 10, 2022June 20, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with Chinese counterparts at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to call upon Chinese authorities to grant consular access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being and offer consular assistance.Canada will always advocate for Canadian citizens abroad, each and every time.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00608441-00608 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 16, 2022August 17, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with Chinese counterparts at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to call upon Chinese authorities to grant consular access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being and offer consular assistance.Canada will always advocate for Canadian citizens abroad, each and every time.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00274441-00274 (Infrastructure)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMarch 25, 2022May 9, 2022March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The National Capital Commission (NCC) recommended the release of 53 acres of surplus federal office land at Tunney's Pasture for the new Ottawa Hospital;
  • The NCC ran a six-month public consultation, worked with the current hospital on developing 21 site criteria, and evaluated 12 different sites, in reaching their recommendation;
  • The City of Ottawa seemed to accept the recommendation but 72 hours later switched the site to a pristine green space that is popular for outdoor activities;
  • The decision to switch sites was made without any studies on the environmental, transportation or health impacts of the switch;
  • The proposed private/public development plan contains 17 acres of parking, including a four-story parking structure on what is now Queen Juliana Park;
  • Queen Juliana Park was established to honour the 7,600 Canadians who died liberating the Netherlands and serves as the site of popular Algonquin Pow Wows in the summer;
  • The sudden switch to the farm made available three to four billion dollars worth of developable land at the NCC recommended site;
  • A panel of Ottawa residents convened themselves to review the decision;
  • The panel included a former Ontario Superior court judge, Mme Monique Metivier, an internationally celebrated Canadian medical physicist, Dr. David W.O. Rogers, a distinguished Canadian environmental engineer, Dr. Frank Johnson, and an award winning international investigative journalist, Dr. Declan Hill;
  • The panel sought answers from the City of Ottawa but did not receive any;
  • The panel unanimously resolved to call for a public inquiry; and
  • More than 8,000 Canadians have signed a Change.org petition calling for a public inquiry.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Restore the National Capital Commission's recommendation of Tunney's Pasture as the ideal site for the new Ottawa hospital;
  • Preserve Queen Juliana Park and the entire Central Experimental Farm as greenspaces; and
  • Support the panel's request for a public inquiry, led by the Province of Ontario, into why the NCC's site recommendation was set aside so quickly and summarily.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MPThe Central Experimental Farm (CEF) is an important cultural landscape contributing scientifically and culturally to the legacy of Canadian agriculture.Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) takes its role as the custodian of the CEF site very seriously.The CEF was designated a National Historic Site in 1998. As part of its obligation with respect to this designation, AAFC developed a National Historic Site Management Plan (Central Experimental Farm National Historic Site Management Plan (1 of 20) - agriculture.canada.ca) to guide future development on the site and to ensure that the Farm maintains its historical and cultural significance.AAFC works with partners such as Parks Canada in support of protecting the CEF’s heritage and historic value, including both the site and the structures / buildings found within its boundaries.Development on the site is subject to the National Capital Commission Federal Land Use, Design and Transaction Approvals process, where all elements of any development are considered, including the national historic site components. These elements complement the consultative nature of the process, including heritage impact assessments and engagement with key stakeholders.Through the Central Experimental Farm Advisory Council, AAFC representatives work with community representatives and stakeholders in the interest of preserving the site. Membership includes the Friends of the Central Experimental Farm, The Canada Agriculture Museum, the 4H Council of Canada, Heritage Ottawa, the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects, the Federation of Citizen's Associations of Ottawa, the National Trust for Canada, and the Canadian Institute of Planners.Although AAFC is no longer owner of the lands on which the new Civic Campus will be located, we continue to work with federal partners and The Ottawa Hospital in the interest of respecting the historic value of the property as a whole, including the ongoing operation of the Central Experimental Farm and the Ottawa Research and Development Centre.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherThe Government acknowledges its receipt of Petition 441-00274 regarding the proposed site for the Ottawa Hospital.The National Capital Commission does not have responsibility for the Ottawa Hospital or any decisions regarding location of a new site. The Government remains committed to the important research that the Central Experimental Farm undertakes, which provides benefits to farmers and the agricultural industry across Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTUnder the Impact Assessment Act (IAA) every authority that exercises a power, performs a duty or function conferred to it under an Act of Parliament, provides financial assistance, or is the proponent of a proposed project on federal lands is required to make an environmental effects determination unless the project is designated by Ministerial Order under section 88 of the IAA. There may be multiple authorities required to make an environmental effects determination for an individual project. Both the National Capital Commission and Public Services and Procurement Canada are required to undertake an environmental effects determination for the new Ottawa Hospital project proposed on federal lands. As part of these obligations, public notices are posted on the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry (the Registry) to invite comments and announce their environmental effects determination decision. Information related to The Ottawa Hospital's new Civic development - Phase 2 parking garage, green roof and various supporting projects was posted on the Registry on November 15, 2021 (https://iaac-aeic.gc.ca/050/evaluations/proj/83161). The scope of the determination must include a consideration of impacts to Indigenous rights, Indigenous and community knowledge (if provided), public comments, and mitigation measures. The IAA does not prescribe how an authority must conduct these environmental effects determinations. The responsibility for conducting the effects determination rests with the relevant authorities. The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada has issued public guidance to authorities to support them in meeting their obligations under the IAA, shares best practices, and hosts the Registry site, but does not review the determinations nor the analysis conducted by authorities.Parks Canada is the federal government’s lead on the protection and presentation of nationally significant examples of Canada's natural and cultural heritage, and the lead for Canada’s participation in the World Heritage Convention. Parks Canada’s interest in The Ottawa Hospital project relates to its impact on the Central Experimental Farm National Historic Site and on the neighboring Rideau Canada National Historic Site and World Heritage Site.The City of Ottawa and the National Capital Commission are responsible for review and approval processes related to the development of the new Civic Campus of The Ottawa Hospital.Parks Canada is providing comments to both the City of Ottawa and the National Capital Commission in the context of their approval processes on the development of the Civic Campus of the Ottawa Hospital and its potential impacts on the heritage values of the national historic sites and world heritage site.     
Government landsLocal development plansNational Capital CommissionThe Ottawa Hospital
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00613441-00613 (Business and trade)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNDPBCJune 17, 2022August 17, 2022January 12, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights, labour and environmental standards. This is reflected in the mandate letter commitment to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and ensure that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses.Further to this commitment, the Government published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains:  What We Heard Report (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/reports/what-we-heard-forced-labour-global-supply-chain.html) in March 2022, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and share any additional feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals and the Government will continue to consider the results of consultations moving forward.Parliament is actively engaged on this matter and there was unanimous support to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and to amend the Customs Tariff,studied by Committee.The Government supports the intent behind Bill S-211 and will look to strengthen and bolster the proposed legislation.This is a complex endeavour that requires careful consideration of supply chain legislation appropriate to the Canadian context. It remains a relatively novel undertaking, and the effectiveness of various legislative models is yet to be determined. For that reason, we will continuously re-evaluate and reassess the steps we take on this matter.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business practice abroad.For example, Canada is party to a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights, including conventions addressing situations of child labour and forced labour. The Government continues to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Sanctions or penalties could be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. The National Strategy is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. As part of this National Strategy, the Government aims to encourage industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour in government procurement supply chains.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their sub-contractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that it can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.In January 2021, Canada announced several trade measures to address human rights abuses, including forced labour involving Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang. These include a specialized Xinjiang integrity declaration for Canadian companies; a business advisory on Xinjiang-related entities; enhanced advice to Canadian businesses; export controls; enhanced awareness raising for responsible business conduct related to Xinjiang; and a study on forced labour and supply chain risks, which has now been published on Global Affairs Canada’s website.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in their operations, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (RBC). The Government endorses and promotes internationally respected guidelines, principles, and standards on RBC, including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (https://www.oecd.org/corporate/mne/OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises), the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (https://www.unglobalcompact.org/library/2) and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (https://www.ilo.org/global/lang--en/index.htm). To this end, Global Affairs Canada released an updated RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains, and to help them mitigate potential risks no matter their size, sector or scope.In terms of remedy, the Government of Canada provides two dispute-resolution mechanisms: Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). The NCP offers dispute resolution for companies operating in any sector for a wide range of issues including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery both in Canada and abroad. The NCP can also address complaints directed towards the domestic operations of Canadian companies. In addition, the CORE can review complaints for alleged human rights abuse by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil, gas and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies involved in a dispute-resolution process will participate in good faith. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of, or follow-up to the review process with either the NCP or the CORE, recommendations can be made to implement trade measures such as the withdrawal of Trade Commissioner Service support and recommending to Export Development Canada and the Canadian Commercial Corporation that they decline to provide future support to the company.The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. They are an effective and accessible alternative to judicial resolutions without precluding a party from engaging in other fora. The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. 
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 4, 2022441-00200441-00200 (Environment)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONFebruary 17, 2022April 4, 2022February 8, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) Canada announced new measures
  • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
  • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
  • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and, 
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 31, 2022441-00189441-00189 (Foreign affairs)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCFebruary 15, 2022March 31, 2022February 8, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA WHEREAS:
  • Worldwide there are nearly half a million recipients of a United Kingdom (UK) state pension that is “frozen” at the same amount as when it is first received – i.e. a pension lacking an annual cost of living increase;
  • The UK is the only OECD country in the world to discriminate based on country of residence for providing annual inflationary increases to pension payments;
  • This policy is discriminatory and unevenly applied: recipients residing in the United States of America (numbering approximately 127,000) receive “unfrozen” pensions, while the pensions of recipients in Canada (approx. 128,000) are “frozen.”;
  • The Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners have long advocated for unfreezing UK state pension payments;
  • The Government of Canada is not proactively addressing this matter, with the former Minister for Seniors stating, “Canada remains prepared to engage with UK officials should they choose to reconsider their non-indexation policy,” April 2021. The Canada-United Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement (Canada-UK TCA) came into force on April 1, 2021 - required following Brexit, the Canada-UK TCA primarily rolls-over of the Canada-Europe Trade Agreement, and a new agreement is expected; and
  • Any future Canada-UK trade agreement must include a reciprocal social service section with an “unfrozen” pension policy ensuring ex-patriot British pensioners have 'equal rights' and are not discriminated against.
THEREFORE: We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to ensure any future Canada-UK trade agreement unfreeze UK state pensions paid to Canadian recipients, and that the relevant Ministers provide regular updates on these efforts to the Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners.
Response by the Minister of SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Darren FisherUnder United Kingdom (UK) law, UK State Pensions are paid anywhere in the world. However, for many UK pensioners living in countries outside the UK, including in Canada, their pensions are not adjusted for increases in the cost of living. In other words, their pensions are "frozen" and paid at the same rate as they were when they first became entitled, or the date they left the UK if they were already pensioners then. This ultimately erodes the value of these pensions over time.Canada's longstanding position is that UK pensioners who live in Canada have contributed to the UK pension scheme, and have therefore earned the right to be treated the same way as other UK pensioners.The UK policy of non-indexation stems entirely from UK domestic law and could unilaterally decide to pay indexed pensions into Canada at any time. Over the years, the Government of Canada has raised, and has sought to address, this issue with the UK, including by proposing that the two countries negotiate a comprehensive Social Security Agreement (SSA) that would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. To date, UK officials have not engaged on this issue.In early 2020, the British Secretariat of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Frozen British Pensions launched an inquiry regarding the impact of the UK Government’s approach to UK State Pensions paid to UK pensioners living abroad. The final report was released in December 2020. The Government of Canada presented a submission on UK pensioners living in Canada, for the APPG’s consideration. The submission is consistent with its longstanding position of support for UK pensioners regarding the non-indexation of UK pensions.In November 2020, officials from the Department of Employment and Social Development Canada wrote to their UK counterparts, seeking their interest in concluding a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK. UK officials declined the Department’s request to conclude a comprehensive SSA that would provide for the payment of indexed pensions.In early March 2021, motions were presented in both Houses of Commons in Canada and the UK regarding the UK’s non-indexation policy, urging the UK to negotiate a SSA with Canada that would allow for the indexation of pensions. In June 2021, the former Minister of Seniors, in her capacity as the Minister responsible for concluding SSA on behalf of the Government of Canada, sent a letter to her counterpart, the UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, to formally request the conclusion of a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK, which would provide for the indexation of UK pensions.A trade agreement is not the appropriate mechanism for advancing the issue of pension indexation by the British government. Canada and the UK have committed to launching negotiations toward a free trade agreement and Canada is taking the steps necessary to prepare for the launch of negotiations, including having tabled a Notice of Intent to negotiate and objectives for the negotiations in Parliament. For both the Canada-UK Trade Continuity Agreement now in force and any future trade agreement between Canada and the UK, Canada’s focus is and will be on core trade elements, such as market access for goods and services.The Government of Canada will continue to raise the non-indexation issue with the UK through various channels, where appropriate. Canada remains prepared to engage with UK officials should they choose to reconsider their non-indexation policy.  
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada understands that the United Kingdom’s (UK) non-indexation policy is of great concern to many UK pensioners residing in Canada. It is important to note that the UK policy of non-indexation stems entirely from its domestic law. A trade agreement is not the appropriate mechanism for advancing the issue of pension indexation by the British government.The Government of Canada will, however, continue to raise the issue of non-indexation of UK pensions directly with the UK. We have also made submissions to the All-Party Parliamentary Group on frozen British pensions, which was released December 16, 2020. Canada’s longstanding position has been one of a support for British pensioners regarding the non-indexation of UK pensions.
International relationsPension indexationReciprocal social security agreementsUnited Kingdom
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 6, 2022441-00261441-00261 (Civil and human rights)MarcDaltonPitt Meadows—Maple RidgeConservativeBCMarch 23, 2022May 6, 2022February 11, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Canadians from coast to coast are engaging in convoys, protests, and rallies across the country opposing ongoing Covid-19 mandates;
  • Throughout the pandemic, truckers have served Canadians and are heroes;
  • Truckers are now subject to a vaccine mandate, which impacts the supply chain and Canadians' access essential goods;
  • The Prime Minister has politicized vaccines insulting Canadians who disagree with his position, by calling them "racists" and "misogynists"; and
  • It is the sacred duty of the Government of Canada to guard against discrimination and guarantee the freedoms of all Canadians.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Immediately end all Covid-19 vaccine mandates implemented by the Federal government, regulating employees, truckers, and travellers; and 2. Call for an end to all Covid-19 mandates and restrictions by any entity.
Response by the President of the Treasury Board Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Greg FergusAs the country’s largest employer, the Government of Canada is leading by example. Having a fully vaccinated workforce means that not only are worksites safer, so are the communities where this large population lives and works. It also means better protection for Canadians accessing government services in person.On October 6, 2021, the Treasury Board of Canada announced its Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Core Public Administration Including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The Policy is compliant with legislation, including the Privacy Act, the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and collective agreements. The Policy provides for addressing requests for accommodation based on any prohibited ground of discrimination as defined under the Canadian Human Rights Act, on a case-by-case basis.On October 21, 2021, the Canadian Human Rights Commission published a guide on vaccination policies and human rights, which states that “Rights are not absolute. […] Requiring that an individual be vaccinated to work or travel is not a discriminatory practice under the Canadian Human Rights Act. Vaccination requirements are not a discriminatory practice because they are intended (and are necessary) to protect public health and safety.”
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraThroughout the pandemic, the Government of Canada has prioritized the health and safety of Canadians. This has been an unprecedented and difficult time for all Canadians, and Canadians are understandably tired and frustrated with the pandemic.Recognizing the importance and critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada is committed to keeping Canada’s transportation sector safe and secure and Transport Canada has acted to ensure the safety and security of the transportation network, its employees and its users.The public health measures that the Government of Canada has implemented have been and will continue to be based on the best public health advice and science available. As vaccination rates at home and around the world increase, and the epidemiological situation evolves, so too will the government’s response to the pandemic. In short, the Government of Canada is committed to the safety and security of Canadians and will not hesitate to act to ensure this end.Vaccines work, they are safe and effective, and they are an important tool in the fight against the pandemic. They are the best line of defense and have made it possible to return to Canadians’ pre-pandemic lives.Since October 30, 2021 Transport Canada, using its own authorities, requires travellers departing from Canadian airports and travellers on VIA Rail, Rocky Mountaineer and Amtrak trains to be vaccinated. Vaccination requirements also extend to passengers on board cruise ships in Canada. In addition, in January 2022, in line with similar measures in the United States, the Minister of Health, using the Quarantine Act, implemented vaccination requirements for some foreign national essential workers entering Canada, which includes commercial truck drivers.The Government of Canada is committed to finding the responsible balance between measures that protect Canadians’ safety and supporting the recovery of Canada’s economy. Since the outset of the pandemic, Transport Canada has been engaging regularly with all levels of government and transportation industry stakeholders to identify emerging issues and mitigate disruptions. For example, Transport Canada has provided guidance to the road industry, including commercial vehicle operators, transportation workers and operators, in support of COVID-19 safety.The Government of Canada continues to monitor, review, and adjust to the latest public health advice as necessary to ensure the safety of Canadians, and remains committed to supporting essential transportation workers, while ensuring a coordinated response in the fight against COVID-19.As eager as Canadians are to return to their pre-pandemic lives, the reality is that the pandemic is not over.It is through widespread vaccination that a return to pre-pandemic lives is possible. Anyone who has not received the vaccine - their first, second or booster - should do so as soon as possible. People who have doubts as to whether they should get the vaccine should speak with their physician.The Government of Canada will continue to work alongside Canadians to support them while navigating this once in a hundred-years pandemic, and come out stronger, and safer.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for their engagement on this issue.Since the beginning of the pandemic, keeping Canadians safe and healthy has been the top priority of the Government of Canada. Canada’s best economic policy continues to be finishing the fight against COVID-19. Millions of Canadians have been doing their part by getting vaccinated, following public health guidelines, and delivering essential services. But work remains to end the pandemic.Vaccines are our best line of defence against COVID-19 and widespread vaccination has helped our economy reopen and helped many people return to work. Scientists have developed safe vaccines that have proven to be very effective at preventing severe cases of COVID-19, including preventing hospitalization and death. By getting our shots, we are protecting our loved ones, vulnerable people, those who can’t get vaccinated—and preventing further lockdowns.On December 7, 2021, the Government of Canada announced its intention to develop regulations under Part II (Occupational Health and Safety) of the Canada Labour Code to make vaccination mandatory in federally regulated workplaces. Consultations with federally regulated stakeholders, including employer and employee representatives, were held in December 2021. At this time, no regulations have been enacted.The Government of Canada continues to encourage Canadians to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and to follow public health recommendations and preventative measures to protect themselves and others in their communities.
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemic
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00500441-00500 (Environment)PeterJulianNew Westminster—BurnabyNDPBCMay 19, 2022August 17, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned Citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS: Climate change has escalated into a global climate emergency; The world is on pace to warm nearly 4 degrees Celsius by 2100 and extreme weather events are growing with increasingly severe impacts, including floods, forest fires, rising temperatures, killer heat-waves, massive storms, sea level rise and disruption to marine and land ecosystems;In order to act to avert further catastrophic climate change, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) states that the scientific consensus is that we need to immediately move to reduce net human-caused greenhouse gas emissions to 45 per cent below 2010 levels by 2030 and net-zero by 2050;Canada must address this climatic emergency with the ambition and urgency required, on behalf of present and future generations;Canadians are living through unprecedented, catastrophic climate events and at the same time, our society is suffering from worsening socio-economic inequalities, with almost half of Canada's population reporting they are $200 away from insolvency at the end of each month;Climate change impacts threaten physical & mental health (particularly young people, the elderly and persons with disabilities), surrounding environments by affecting the food we eat, the world's water supply, the air we breathe, the weather we experience, and how well local communities can adapt to climate change;The impacts of climate emergency are far more severe for those living through the immediate consequences of climate change; Indigenous Peoples, frontline and vulnerable communities, like people seeking refugee status or asylum and those displaced by climate change, are disproportionality affected, resulting in the increased risks to their health;It has never been more urgent that Canada reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy to meet the scale and urgency of the climate crisis, while ensuring that all Indigenous peoples and Canadians benefit from the substantial public investments a low-carbon economy requires, like energy efficiency retrofits, affordable housing, renewable energy, infrastructure, public transit, pharmacare, dental care, childcare and eliminating student debt and tuition fees; andReconciliation with Indigenous peoples and the recognition of inherent rights, title and treaty rights, while fully implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), must be at the heart of Canada's approach to addressing the climate emergency.THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the Government of Canada to support Motion M-1, a made-in-Canada Green New Deal, the first initiative before the House of Commons, which calls on Canada to take bold & rapid action to adopt socially equitable climate action to tackle the climate emergency and address worsening socio-economic & racial inequalities at the same time; while ending fossil fuel subsidies, closing offshore tax havens, and supporting workers impacted by the transition and creating well-paying, unionized jobs in the shift to a clean and renewable energy economy.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has recently completed consulting with a broad range of stakeholders and is presently seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What We Heard” report will be published once they are complete.The Government of Canada recognises the vital role Indigenous peoples play in the transition to a low-carbon economy, given their strong relationship to the land and unique role in the stewardship of natural resources. Empowered Indigenous-led clean energy solutions can accelerate the transition, while advancing community resilience, autonomy, self-determination and reconciliation.Despite being among the most affected by climate change, Indigenous Peoples are active leaders of climate action who contribute vital knowledge, experience and leadership to efforts across Canada.Canada is committed to reconciliation and working collaboratively with Indigenous peoples through the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, which came into force June 2021. The Act requires the government to work in partnership with Indigenous peoples to take measures necessary to ensure federal laws are consistent with the declaration, and to develop an action plan within the next two years. Federal Departments are currently working in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples to develop a draft action plan that outlines key priorities and measures to help achieve the Act’s objectives. Natural Resources Canada is also committed to increasing inclusion in the clean energy workforce by creating more opportunities for women, LGBTQ2, Indigenous peoples, and other under-represented people in the energy sector.On June 1, 2022, Natural Resources Canada formally launched the first phase of the Regional Energy and Resource Tables Initiative —to collaborate with provincial and territorial governments to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe science is clear that accelerated efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, are necessary to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The economics are clear too – to build a strong, resilient economy for generations to come we must harness the power of a cleaner future.Over the past seven years, the Government of Canada has taken action and committed to invest over $120 billion to reduce emissions, protect the environment, spur clean technologies and innovation, and help Canadians and communities adapt to the impacts of climate change. In 2016, the Government of Canada developed the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change in collaboration with provinces and territories, and with input from Indigenous peoples. Building on this national effort, the Government of Canada released its Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy in December 2020 to deepen emissions reductions across the economy, create new, well-paying jobs, make life more affordable for households, and build a better future.In 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 40-45 per cent below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (the Act) provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Actalso holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets, based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada published the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target as a concrete milestone that improves transparency and accountability on the way to net-zero. The 2030 ERP includes a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, $9.1 billion in new investments, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Achieving Canada’s climate objectives demands that all sectors of the economy continue to decarbonize in a manner that makes cleaner alternatives more affordable and creates new sustainable job opportunities for workers. That’s why the 2030 ERP provides a road map that goes sector-by-sector to identify climate action and strategies. For example, the Government is:
  • Helping to reduce energy costs for homes and buildings, while driving down emissions to net-zero by 2040 and boosting climate resiliency through the development of the $150 million Canada Green Buildings Strategy and an additional investment of $458.5 million in the Canada Greener Homes Loans program;
  • Empowering communities to take climate action by expanding the Low Carbon Economy Fund through a $2.2 billion recapitalization, which will include a new $180-million Indigenous Leadership Fund to support emissions reductions projects led by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and organizations;
  • Driving progress on clean cars and trucks through investments of $400 million for zero-emission vehicles charging and refueling infrastructure, $1.7 billion to extend the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program to make it more affordable for Canadians to buy and drive new electric light-duty vehicles, and introducing a purchase incentive program of $547.5 million for medium-and heavy-duty vehicles;
  • Positioning the oil and gas sector to cut pollution by working with stakeholders to implement the cap on oil and gas sector emissions;
  • Powering the economy with renewable electricity by continuing to advance the Clean Electricity Standard to enable Canada to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035, and providing $600 million to the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program for additional renewable electricity and grid modernization projects, and $250 million to support predevelopment work of large clean electricity projects;
  • Helping industries to adopt clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) strategy, and establishing an investment tax credit of up to 30 per cent focused on net-zero technologies;
  • Driving further clean technology innovation through a $1 billion investment to create an independent federal innovation and investment agency;
  • Developing of a whole-of-government strategy to strengthen policy coherence and coordination on clean technology and climate innovation;
  • Investing in nature and natural climate solutions by investing an additional $780 million to the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to support projects that conserve, restore and enhance wetlands, peatlands, and grasslands to store and capture carbon;
  • Supporting farmers as partners in building a clean, prosperous future through investments in new programs such as the $150 million resilient agricultural landscapes program, and by topping up the Agricultural Climate Solutions: On-Farm Climate Action Fund with $470 million to support key climate mitigation practices and providing $300 million to triple funding for the Agricultural Clean Technology Program.
The 2030 ERP is expected to benefit diverse groups of people in Canada by helping to alleviate the negative impacts of climate change and strengthen Canada’s ability to meet net-zero emissions by 2050. The plan also includes several measures designed to directly benefit communities affected by climate change, and those seeking to reduce the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions, including those who live in remote and rural communities.These commitments aim to increase Canada’s ambition and to reduce the intensity and frequency of climate change-related impacts on the environment such as higher temperatures, variable precipitation patterns, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, severe floods, wildfires, drought, and other extreme weather events. This will benefit groups that are disproportionately affected by the negative effects of climate change, including children, low-income communities, seniors, and Indigenous peoples.The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits and communities across the country work together to meet Canada’s climate objectives, we will identify, catalyze and respond to new opportunities. In addition, progress under the plan will be reviewed in progress reports produced in 2023, 2025, and 2027. Additional targets and plans will be developed for 2035 through to 2050.As the Government of Canada continues to implement the commitments set out in its plans, it is doing so in collaboration with its partners. The Government of Canada is committed to working with provinces and territories to advance shared priorities that will further lower emissions, including on a regional and bilateral basis. The Government of Canada fulfills this commitment by working with provinces and territories to tailor approaches and actions that are focused on climate change and green economic recovery. Collaboration with all levels of government, Indigenous peoples, experts, industry, the financial sector, stakeholders, and Canadians is a key component of the 2030 ERP, and the full implementation of its measures and strategies.The Government of Canada also collaborates with Indigenous partners on climate action and recognizes that Indigenous peoples are among the most vulnerable populations to a rapidly changing environment. To help support Indigenous peoples advance their climate priorities and adapt to the changing climate, the Government of Canada is committed to renewed nation-to-nation, Inuit-to-Crown and Government-to-Government relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, based on the recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership. The Government of Canada also supports without qualification the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including free, prior and informed consent. Supporting self-determined climate action is critical to advancing Canada’s reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.Canada maintains strong partnerships with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners on their climate change priorities through distinctions-based senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change with the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Métis National Council. These partnerships have meant that, since the launch of the Pan-Canadian Framework in 2016, Indigenous partners have worked directly with Canada to identify ways for policies and programs to better support Indigenous peoples and their climate priorities. More than five years later, the tables continue to demonstrate the benefits of sustained collaboration. For instance, the tables were instrumental in ensuring that Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan (December 2020), and the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan respond to Indigenous climate priorities.Investments in Indigenous climate change action have been important to advancing self-determined priorities of Indigenous peoples. Since the release of the Strengthened Climate Plan, Canada has committed more than $1.3 billion in targeted investments to support Indigenous communities to transition to clean energy, advance nature-based solutions, build new or retrofit green community buildings, promote resilience of health systems, and undertake major disaster mitigation projects. These investments supplement more than $425M over 12 years committed under the Pan-Canadian Framework, as well as funding provided to Indigenous proponents through general climate programs for which they are eligible recipients.Most recently, in the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada committed $29.6 million to advance discussions with Indigenous peoples to develop and implement a model of partnership for climate action that empowers self-determined climate action; leverages the transition to a net-zero economy to support efforts toward self-determination and the alleviation of socio-economic inequalities; and supports the expression of Indigenous Knowledge systems in national climate policy.Looking forward, the transition to a cleaner future will bring new opportunities across our labour force, but also some challenges for those that will need to pivot to new jobs. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting the future and livelihoods of workers and their communities as the world moves to a low carbon future. To seize these opportunities, the Government of Canada is making historic investments in skills and training to build on the agility and resilience of Canada’s workforce and ensure that it is equipped with the range of skills required to deliver on this ambition.      
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 22, 2022441-00464441-00464 (Health)TakoVan PoptaLangley—AldergroveConservativeBCMay 13, 2022June 22, 2022March 7, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS Whereas:
  • In the 41st Parliament, the House of Commons unanimously passed a motion calling on the Government to create a national strategy on palliative care to ensure every Canadian has access to high quality palliative care at the end of life;
  • All Canadians expect to have accessible and high-quality healthcare, however, only 30% of Canadians have access to adequate palliative care;
  • 80% of palliative care is provided by informal caregivers, such as, family, friends and neighbors;
  • Demand for palliative care is quickly rising because of the increasing age of the Canadian population, and the lack of trained healthcare professionals;
  • 3 out of 5 healthcare professionals feel they have not received enough training to dealing with those needing palliative care; and
  • Canadian medical schools usually dedicate fewer than ten hours throughout all four years of medical school to palliative care training.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Create a national strategy on palliative care;
  • Increase the availability of palliative care by promoting recruitment and retention of palliative care providers;
  • Develop the healthcare sector by supplying training to existing healthcare workers in the field of palliative care;
  • Provide training and support services to informal caregivers; and;
  • Work with provincial governments to create a national standard for palliative care training for all Canadian medical students.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance and the need for accessible and comprehensive care for Canadians who are living with life-limiting illnesses. Every Canadian who is approaching the end of their life deserves to receive care in the setting of their choice and to live out their days in comfort and dignity. It is for these reasons that the Government of Canada has worked collaboratively with partners, such as the provinces and territories, health care providers, and stakeholders, to develop a Framework and a targeted Action Plan on Palliative Care.The Framework on Palliative Care was tabled in Parliament in 2018 in response to An Act providing for the development of a Framework on Palliative Care. It sets out an approach under which all governments, communities, and Canadians play a role in improving end-of-life care. It provides a common vision and guiding principles for palliative care in Canada, as well as a blueprint to help governments, caregivers, and communities shape planning, decision making, and organizational change. The Framework was developed through participation and direction-setting with provinces and territories, key stakeholder organizations, other federal government departments and individuals, including people living with a life-limiting illness, caregivers, health care providers, and researchers. The penultimate version of the Framework was shared with the provinces, the territories, stakeholders, and other participants in the development process, and their feedback incorporated. Provinces and territories, and key stakeholders shared their approaches to palliative care for inclusion in the Framework, and were named as contributors in the final document. More information about the Framework can be found here: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/health-care-system/reports-publications/palliative-care/framework-palliative-care-canada.html.Building on the Framework, the Action Plan on Palliative Care focuses on the federal role in implementing the Framework. Developed in August 2019, the Action Plan lays out the Government of Canada’s multi-year plan to tackle issues identified in the Framework that fall under the federal role. It aims to help improve quality of life for people with life-limiting illness, address concerns of families and caregivers, and enhance access to quality palliative care through improved health care system performance. Action Plan initiatives include: raising awareness of the importance of palliative care; providing public education on grief; improving palliative care skills and supports for healthcare providers, families, caregivers, and communities; enhancing data collection and research; and, improving access to culturally sensitive palliative and end-of-life care.Since the release of the Action Plan, the Government of Canada has invested $24 million between 2019-2021, and provided a further investment of $29.8 million over six years as part of Budget 2021. These investments will provide Canadians, including those living in long-term care and their families, with better palliative and end-of-life care, including culturally sensitive care.While the Action Plan is still being implemented, some key projects funded to date include:
  • The Canadian Virtual Hospice received $586,534, in addition to the $2.5 million already committed, to support the organization in developing resources for underserved populations (francophones, LGBTQ2S, children, MAID). Resources include online learning modules for caregivers and palliative care patients, as well as grief support resources for providers, patients, and families.
  • Pallium Canada’s Project ECHO ($5 million over 5 years) builds local palliative care capacity among health care providers through the regular provision of information and resources, such as how to effectively deliver virtual palliative care services.
  • The University of British Columbia’s project ($2.25 million over five years) provides trained volunteers to support informal caregivers and allow home-based palliative care patients to stay in their homes longer. The volunteer “navigators” provide support by making connections to professional health care providers, accessing resources and services in their community, and providing companionship and emotional support. Navigators also provide bereavement support to the caregivers and family members after the patient dies.
  • McMaster University ($1.5M over 4 years) is expanding its Strengthening a Palliative Approach in Long-Term Care Program, which aims to improve the access and use of knowledge, tools, and resources to improve the quality of living and dying for residents and their family members within all long-term care homes in Canada, by curating, adapting, and disseminating resources for direct care, program development and staff training, and consolidating these resources in an accessible national repository. 
These investments are complemented by other federal commitments to improve palliative care, notably through bilateral agreements with provinces and territories to support improvements in home and community care, including palliative care, and investments in research.In August 2017, federal, provincial, and territorial Ministers of Health agreed to a Common Statement of Principles (CSoP), which set out a shared agenda for improving access to home and community care, including palliative care, and mental health and addiction services supported by federal investments of $6 billion over ten years for home and community care. Bilateral agreements with action plans from each province and territory can be accessed publicly here: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/corporate/transparency/health-agreements/shared-health-priorities.html.In addition to these bilateral agreements, the Government of Canada has also invested in several research institutions and programs. In terms of research funding, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), along with the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), supported the Canadian Frailty Network through the Networks of Centers of Excellence Program, with an investment of $47.8 million between 2012 and 2022. This network aims to improve the care of seriously ill, frail elderly patients/families through the development, evaluation, and implementation of health care technologies.In 2020-21 alone, CIHR, through its Institute of Aging, invested $2 million in palliative care research. More broadly, between 2016-17 and 2020-21, CIHR invested more than $464 million in research on aging. This includes research to promote healthy aging and to address causes, prevention, treatment and palliation for a wide range of conditions associated with aging.
End-of-life careHealth care systemPalliative care
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00565441-00565 (Environment)BlakeDesjarlaisEdmonton GriesbachNDPABJune 13, 2022September 20, 2022March 7, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00885441-00885 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 28, 2022January 30, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 17, 2022441-00343441-00343 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 4, 2022May 17, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantGlobal Affairs Canada is committed to providing consular services to Canadians around the world. As each consular case is unique and a tailored approach is often required, officials adapt their interventions to varying local context and circumstance.The case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with Chinese counterparts at the highest levels, and has made numerous representations to Chinese officials on Mr. Celil’s behalf. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to use all diplomatic tools available, including working through the Embassy of Canada in Beijing, to leverage emerging opportunities to further advance Mr. Celil’s case.As part of the Government’s engagement on the case, Canadian officials have been in regular contact with Mr. Celil’s family in Canada, as well as their representatives, to provide support.The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy, and will continue to play a fundamental role in the Government of Canada’s engagement with China. When appropriate, and more broadly as a matter of foreign policy, Canada may take steps to reiterate to foreign authorities the importance of abiding by their international human rights obligations and providing basic minimum standards of protection. Canada will always advocate for Canadian citizens abroad.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00861441-00861 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 22, 2022January 30, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00600441-00600 (Social affairs and equality)ShannonStubbsLakelandConservativeABJune 16, 2022August 17, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00659441-00659 (Social affairs and equality)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2022441-00754441-00754 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 18, 2022December 1, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00700441-00700 (Social affairs and equality)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKSeptember 26, 2022November 14, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00656441-00656 (Social affairs and equality)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00679441-00679 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the rule of law and respect for human rights and democracy;
  • The Putin regime invaded and occupied Crimea and the Donbas region of Eastern Ukraine in 2014, leading to the death of more than 14,000 Ukrainians;
  • The Government of Canada, NATO allies, and the European Union unanimously condemned the 2014 invasion of Ukraine;
  • Russian military forces have now conducted a subsequent large-scale invasion of Ukraine, dropping missiles on Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odessa, Mariupol and other cities in Ukraine, and killing many Ukrainian civilians and soldiers; and
  • The subsequent Russian invasion of Ukraine is a grave violation of international law and must be universally condemned.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Stand with the people of Ukraine in the threat faced towards Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity; 2. Call on the international community to take decisive action against the Putin regime, and ban Russia from international organizations, including the UNSC, OSCE, etc.; 3. Impose full and swift sanctions against the Putin regime, including the removal of Russia from the SWIFT international payments system; 4. Boycott Russian oil and gas imports in Canada and Europe, and secure energy agreements with Western partners; 5. Increase the supply of military equipment and lethal defensive weapons to protect the territory and human rights of the people of Ukraine; 6. Provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine; and 7. Provide vital assistance to refugees impacted by the conflict in Ukraine and allow Canadians with family members in Ukraine to urgently bring family members to Canada for as long as the conflict persists.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada has been at the forefront of the international community’s support for Ukraine and its people, and in its condemnation of the Russian leadership’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion. Among Canada’s economic measures, the Prime Minister announced on February 28, 2022, a ban on all imports of crude oil, gas and other petroleum products from Russia.Canada is working with allies bilaterally and in various multilateral fora including the G7, G20 and International Energy Agency to identify options to stabilize global energy markets and reduce Europe’s dependence on Russian oil and gas products, including through further exports. To this end, Canada recently announced an increase of oil and gas exports, the equivalent of up to 300,000 barrels per day by the end of 2022, with the intention of displacing Russian oil and gas while not increasing global emissions.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Canada is committed in our support for those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.On March 17, 2022, IRCC launched the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) to help Ukrainians and their family members come to Canada as quickly as possible and to provide them with the ability to work and study while in Canada. Ukrainian workers, students and visitors and their family members who are already in Canada also benefit from fee-exempt options to work, study, or stay for up to three years.The CUAET is one of the many special measures the Government of Canada has introduced to support the people of Ukraine. It offers Ukrainians and their family members extended temporary status and allows them to work, study and stay in Canada until it is safe for them to return home.Ukrainians and their family members coming to Canada from overseas:
  • can apply for a fee exempt visitor visa and may be allowed to stay in Canada for three years, as opposed to the standard six-month authorized stay for regular visitors;
  • have the option to apply for an open work permit with their visa application, enabling them to work as quickly as possible;
  • will have their electronic visa application processed within 14 days of receipt of a complete application, for standard, non-complex cases;
  • are exempt from completing an immigration medical exam (IME) overseas, if applicable, but may be required to complete and pay for a medical diagnostic test within 90 days of arrival in Canada to screen for reportable communicable diseases (chest x-ray or suitable alternative and blood test).
  • IRCC has identified 3 cohorts of individuals in which data proves they are low risk and therefore biometric screening can be eased to expedite processing.
Ukrainians and their family members who acquire or already have temporary status in Canada:
  • may apply to extend their temporary resident status for up to 3 years;
  • can leave and return to Canada at any time while their visa is valid;
  • may renew their work or study permit
  • may apply for a new work or study permit;
  • are eligible to attend elementary and secondary school; and,
  • may be required to complete and pay for an immigration medical exam (IME) if they haven’t completed one on initial entry to Canada.
All Ukrainians and their family members:
  • will have most of their application fees waived, including the visa application fee, biometric collection fee, work and study permit application fees, and visitor extension, and work and study permit renewal fees;
  • will have all their IRCC applications prioritized for processing (14 days for non complex and complete applications);
  • may apply for permanent residence under a variety of different immigration programs and streams if they are eligible to do so; and,
  • have access to IRCC’s dedicated service channel.      
Dedicated service channels (web, e-mail, phone) were also activated to provide clients with the most up to date information.As of June 2, 2022, Ukrainians arriving in Canada can apply to receive transitional financial assistance. These funds will help Ukrainian nationals and their family members meet their basic needs – such as transportation and longer-term housing – as they arrive in communities across Canada and find a job. The benefit consists of a direct one-time payment of $3,000 per adult and $1,500 per child (17 years and under).In addition to this transitional financial assistance, the Government of Canada secured three charter flights from Poland, and is providing temporary accommodations for up to 14 nights for CUAET holders arriving without planned accommodation.Canada is also offering settlement services such as language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports for Ukrainians.IRCC has increased operational readiness in Europe in anticipation of an increased volume of requests. This includes relocating staff and moving additional supplies and equipment, such as mobile biometric collection kits. We are also adjusting operations in offices across our global network to ensure service continuity for Ukraine. Online options are available for most applications.There are currently no refugee resettlement commitments related to the situation in Ukraine. The CUAET is for Ukrainians and their family members who want to come to Canada temporarily while the situation in Ukraine unfolds. This new pathway allows for Ukrainians and their family members to seek temporary refuge in Canada, and return home when it is safe to do so or apply for permanent residency. IRCC has been working closely with other government departments, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, and others across the Ukrainian-Canadian community to ensure that all measures meet the needs of Ukrainians and their communities. IRCC will continue to engage with provinces and territories, and other partners as to how they can contribute and support the effort.
  • The Department is working quickly to ensure that Ukrainian Temporary Residents and their dependents in Canada are able to access federally-funded settlement services such as language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports as they settle into their new communities. Access to these supports will remain in place until March 31, 2023.
The Budget 2022 provides additional funding to bolster Canada’s response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and details some measures already in place, including the funding of $111M over five years, with $6M in future years, to implement new immigration measures for Ukrainians. This funding will help to set up the new immigration pathways, expedite the processing of applications, and provide support to Ukrainians once they arrive in Canada.Up-to-date data concerning Ukrainian immigration measures and the CUAET can located online at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/ukraine-measures/key-figures.html.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.The Government of Canada is steadfast in our support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Canada is deeply concerned for all those affected, and horrified by the Russian Forces’ attacks on innocent civilians. Canada is committed to holding Russia to account, and strongly supports the investigations into these actions. Canada has also been resolute in condemning Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine and its people, and has been working in bilateral and multilateral forums, including at the United Nations (UN), on options to support Ukraine and promote international peace and security.Canada and its like-minded partners are united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Canada has been making critical contributions to support Ukraine’s military, in the following three key areas: the provision of non-lethal and lethal military aid, training of Ukrainian soldiers, and transport of Canadian and Allied equipment to Ukraine. First, since February 2022, Canada has committed more than $600 million in military aid to Ukraine. This includes 39 armoured combat support vehicles, M777 howitzers, and specialized cameras for drones. Further, on October 12, 2022, we announced that Canada will provide over $47 million in a new tranche of military aid that includes NATO-standard artillery rounds, specialized drone cameras, satellite communications services, and half a million pieces of critical winter gear. In addition, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have provided training to the Ukrainian military on the use of donated artillery and munitions in a third country location – including the use of howitzers. Second, Operation UNIFIER, the CAF military training and capacity building mission in Ukraine launched in 2015, was expanded and extended earlier this year until March 2025. Since 2015, Canada has trained over 33,000 Ukrainians under Operation UNIFIER. Aspects of the operation were temporarily paused following the February 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with the commitment to resume training when and where conditions permitted. As of August 2022, CAF trainers have resumed delivering training to the Armed Forces of Ukraine recruits in the UK, with approximately 170 personnel. Additionally, we announced on October 11, 2022, that Canada will deploy approximately 40 combat engineers to Poland under Operation UNIFIER to support a sapper training program for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Training is one of Canada’s most significant contributions to Ukraine’s defence. Indeed, Canada’s expertise in training is recognized by both Ukraine and our NATO Allies. Finally, the CAF is also assisting with the delivery of aid bound for Ukraine and has transported over 4.5 million pounds of military donations on behalf of our Allies and partners. In September, we announced that Canada would increase its contribution in this area, with a third aircraft deployed to Europe and additional personnel added to the Prestwick hub in Scotland. As NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said, Canada is a leader in terms of support for Ukraine. And that will continue.More information on Canada’s comprehensive military aid to Ukraine can be found on Canada.ca.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada is supporting Ukraine with over $32 million this year in stabilization and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion specifically, PSOPs has approved more than $13.5 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, countering disinformation, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations. In June 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional $15 million to support mine action efforts and $9.7 million to improve accountability for human rights violations in Ukraine, with a particular emphasis on cases of sexual and gender-based violence.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to counter disinformation with greater coherence. This includes supporting a collaborative pilot initiative with Carnegie Endowment for International Peace to establish a multi-stakeholder crisis network comprised of G7 governments, social media platforms and civil society to support the integrity of the Ukrainian information environment and tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers, as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against over 1400 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, and includes President Putin himself, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, and Belarusian military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian individuals responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia’s and Belarus’s Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian airplanes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada halted the issuance of all new permits for the export and brokering of controlled goods and technology to Russia and cancelled existing permits to export controlled military, strategic and dual-use items to Russia. Canada has also prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation.Canada also banned the export of targeted luxury goods to Russia, as well as banned the importation of targeted luxury goods from Russia. Together, these categories represented $75.7 million worth of goods in 2021. Canada also prohibited the import of targeted gold products from Russia in coordination with allies and partners, shutting the commodity out of formal international markets and further isolating Russia from the international financial system.Most recently, Canada sanctioned additional individuals and one entity complicit in President Putin’s sham referendums in the Ukrainian territories of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, and their attempted annexation. Canada’s position is clear: Borders will not change; Ukraine’s territory will remain Ukraine’s.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.In partnership with our allies, Canada has formed the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO) Taskforce, and committed to take all available legal steps to find, restrain, freeze, and, where appropriate, confiscate or forfeit the assets of individuals and entities that have been sanctioned in connection with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. To that end, legislative amendments to the Special Economic Measures Act and the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (JVCFOA) came into force on June 23, 2022, allowing for the seizure, forfeiture, disposal and redistribution of assets belonging to sanctioned individuals and entities.On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has committed $320 million in humanitarian assistance to support the humanitarian response in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. This support is provided through UN, Red Cross, and NGO partners. This includes support for the World Food Programme in Ukraine to address food security needs, as well as a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $148.7 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada. Canada also sent 20 cargo flights with more than 377,000 essential relief items and financed the deployment of humanitarian exports to support the UN and Red Cross responses in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and other urgent needs including food, water and shelter.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that is addressing emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they are better able to meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. In addition, Canada recently allocated $7 million in development assistance to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support those impacted by sexual and gender-based violence, as well as $2 million for the completion of a dairy plant in western Ukraine, to support food security efforts. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.On June 28, 2022 the Prime Minister announced an additional $52 million in response to Ukraine’s urgent need to increase grain storage capacity. This comprises $50 million for grain storage and $2 million for agro-lab equipment.  The funds will go to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)’s Grain Storage Support Strategy to increase grain and oil seed storage for Ukrainian farmers, and boost Ukraine’s capacity to test and monitor animal products. With Canada’s support, the FAO expects to provide supplemental storage for an additional 2.4 million tonnes of grain from 2022-2023.Canada has provided $1.95 billion in financial assistance to the Government of Ukraine to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, help the Government meet its urgent balance of payments needs, and support macro-economic stability in Ukraine. This includes $500 million in bilateral loans, as well as $1.45 billion in additional loan resources through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the Government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave breaches of international humanitarian law.Canada referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine. The investigation by the ICC Prosecutor into allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity or genocide is ongoing. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account. To support the ICC investigations, Canada deployed an additional seven RCMP officers to the ICC and announced $1 million in funding to augment the court’s ability to investigate and prosecute conflict-related sexual violence and crimes against children. Canada is also supporting the deployment of two experts from the UN Women roster to support the UN Human Rights Council Commission of Inquiry (COI) on issues of sexual violence and gender.Canada coordinated a joint statement, issued on May 20, 2022 with 43 signatories, expressing support for Ukraine’s application against Russia at the International Court of Justice. On July 13, 2022, Canada announced our intention to intervene in these proceedings in a joint statement issued with 44 signatories. Ukraine’s application seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. Canada also welcomed the Court’s provisional measures order ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine, and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission and a subsequent follow-up mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO, the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development are all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences for global food security. Most recently, on October 1, Russia failed to receive the simple majority required to be elected to the International Civil Aviation Council, and on October 3, Russia was not elected to the International Telecommunication Union Council for the first time in the organization’s history.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with like-minded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.Canada is coordinating efforts with allies and partners to support Ukraine and to pressure Russia to end its war on Ukraine. Canada prioritizes an immediate ceasefire and calls on Russia to stop its attacks on Ukrainian civilians and turn to good-faith diplomacy.Canada continues to work at the UN on options to support Ukraine and promote international peace and security.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement new immigration measures to expedite application processing and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of October 2, almost 100,000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. Three charter flights from Poland arrived in Winnipeg, Montreal, and Halifax in May and June.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of October 31, 2022Canada has been making critical contributions to support Ukraine’s military, in the following three key areas: the provision of non-lethal and lethal military aid, training of Ukrainian soldiers, and transport of Canadian and Allied equipment to Ukraine.First, since February 2022, Canada has committed more than $600 million in military aid to Ukraine. This includes 39 armoured combat support vehicles, M777 howitzers, and specialized cameras for drones. Further, on October 12, 2022, we announced that Canada will provide over $47 million in a new tranche of military aid that includes NATO-standard artillery rounds, specialized drone cameras, satellite communications services, and half a million pieces of critical winter gear. Furthermore, Canada has provided training to the Ukrainian military on the use of donated artillery and munitions in third country locations – including the use of howitzers.Second, Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity building mission in Ukraine, was launched in 2015 at the request of the Ukrainian government, and early this year, was expanded and extended until March 2025. Since 2015, Canada has trained over 33,000 Ukrainians. Aspects of OP UNIFIER were temporarily paused following the February 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with the commitment to resume training when and where conditions permitted. As of August 2022, CAF trainers have resumed delivering training to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) recruits in the UK, with approximately 170 personnel. Additionally, we announced on October 11, 2022, that Canada will deploy approximately 40 combat engineers to Poland under Operation UNIFIER to support a sapper training program for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Training is one of Canada’s most significant contribution to Ukraine’s military as this is a Canadian military strength, recognized by both Ukraine and NATO.Third, the Canadian Armed Forces is also assisting with the delivery of aid within Europe and has transported over 4.5 million pounds of military donations on behalf of our Allies and partners. In September, the Minister announced that Canada would increase its contribution in this area, with a third aircraft deployed to Europe and additional personnel added to the Prestwick hub in Scotland.Moving forward, Canada will continue to work with key allies and partners—including NATO, the G7, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the United Nations, the European Union, and the international community—to support Ukraine and ensure that efforts are synchronized. As NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said, Canada is a leader in terms of support for Ukraine. And that will continue.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznikov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help.For more information on Canada’s comprehensive military aid to Ukraine, please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/campaigns/canadian-military-support-to-ukraine.html
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44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 22, 2022441-00440441-00440 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 11, 2022June 22, 2022March 24, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition. 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00276441-00276 (Health)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONMarch 25, 2022May 9, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament assembledWHEREAS:
  • Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive brain tumour found in the brainstem;
  • DIPG slowly takes away all vital functions while cognitive functions remain intact, making the child a prisoner in their own body;
  • DIPG is inoperable and incurable with 0% survival rate;
  • DIPG is the second most common malignant brain tumor in children and the leading cause of brain tumour deaths in children;
  • DIPG occurs equally across gender and affects children typically between 5 - 7 years old;
  • The prognosis and treatments for DIPG have not improved in more than 40 years;
  • The current strategic plan of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) identifies High Fatality Cancers as high priority and supports innovative research targeting these cancers;
  • The CIHR has advised that less than $155,000 has been allocated on average annually to DIPG;
  • Due to limited funding to support research in DIPG, it remains largely unknown or misunderstood to the general public;
  • Most people are unaware that DIPG is the leading cause of brain tumour deaths in children, often not finding out about this disease until they know someone whom it affects; and
  • This declaration would help to educate the public about this disease, encourage funding to support ongoing research, increase dialogue in the professional medical community, further publicize and promote Canada's involvement in the fight against DIPG, and honour the victims of this terrible disease.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Declare May 17 of every year as the National DIPG Day of Awareness across Canada.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenDiffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a highly aggressive brain tumor that is difficult to diagnose and treat. DIPG, in combination with other gliomas, has been the third most common cancer in children in Canada ages 0-14 (2011-2020). The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of raising cancer awareness, and contributing to cancer research to advance detection efforts and treatment options.In Canada, May is widely recognized as Brain Tumour Awareness Month, while October 24th is recognized as Brain Cancer Awareness Day. International Childhood Cancer Day is recognized on February 15th, and September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. These days of recognition are in addition to National Cancer Wellness Awareness Day on June 26th, and World Cancer Day on February 4th. Further information regarding these health promotion days is available on the Government of Canada’s website: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/calendar-health-promotion-days.html.New DIPG research may provide the key to improved treatment options. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) monitors cancer in children, and supports childhood cancer research, including DIPG, through the Cancer in Young People in Canada (CYP-C) program. This program makes data on cancer among children and youth available for research and aims to improve outcomes, enhance the quality and accessibility of care, improve survival, and reduce the lasting effects of treatment. CYP-C operates through a collaboration between PHAC, the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, and the C17 Council, a network of all seventeen children’s cancer hospitals across the country. Further information about CYP-C, Canadian childhood cancer statistics, and access to CYP-C data, is available online: https://health-infobase.canada.ca/data-tools/cypc/publications.html.Over the last five years (2016-17 to 2020-21), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) invested over one billion dollars in cancer research. Of this amount, $39 million was invested specifically for pediatric cancer research. It is important to note that knowledge acquired in one area of cancer research increases the total knowledge brought to bear in all areas of cancer research.In April 2019, CIHR launched a Cancer Survivorship Team Grants funding opportunity in partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society. It represents a joint commitment of $10 million for at least four research teams that will address recently identified gaps in cancer survivorship research (including pediatric, adolescent and/or young adult survivorship), such as adverse late and long-term effects associated with cancer treatments.In March 2020, CIHR provided $2.5 million to the Canadian Collaboration for Child Health: Efficiency and Excellence in the Ethics Review of Research (CHEER), led by Clinical Trials Ontario and the Maternal Infant Child & Youth Research Network. This investment will support the development of research support infrastructure to facilitate multi-site studies for enhanced and expedited pediatric cancer research.Most recently, Budget 2021 proposed a $30 million investment over two years for CIHR to address gaps in pediatric cancer research and ensure sustainable funding in this area. With this new investment, CIHR has launched a research initiative on pediatric cancer, leveraging its Project Grant Program to support excellent research projects, and through a new funding opportunity, will catalyze the creation of a Pediatric Cancer Consortium.The Consortium will advance a shared vision to collaborate and produce research that can help inform policy and practice predicated on better science, better access, and better coordination to improve lives of pediatric cancer patients and their families and caregivers. This interconnected consortium will bring together the ecosystem of pediatric cancer research platforms, networks, research teams, policy makers, people with lived/living experience, Indigenous communities and organizations, healthcare providers, and other entities. Applications to the Consortium funding opportunity are open and funding is expected to start in summer 2022.CIHR has also supported research projects specific to DIPG. Most recently, CIHR provided $639,732 to Dr. James Thomas Rutka and his research team at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto for preclinical experiments to determine effective drug use on DIPG tumours. These experiments are essential to the upcoming Phase 1 Clinical Trials planned for children with this disease. CIHR also supported the research of Dr. Andrew Deweyert of the University of Western Ontario to investigate promising new treatments for DIPG. The results of this project will provide key information needed to advance these treatments towards clinical application.These investments will help improve health systems and health outcomes for pediatric cancer patients and their families.
Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomaNational DIPG Day of Awareness
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00485441-00485 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 17, 2022August 17, 2022March 30, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00718441-00718 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 29, 2022November 14, 2022March 29, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation. 
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our 2030 emissions reduction target and stay on track to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, such as hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published soon.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables in June 2022. The initiative will accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.This work will be undertaken in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous groups, experts, labour organizations and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKWhile climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00465441-00465 (Foreign affairs)TakoVan PoptaLangley—AldergroveConservativeBCMay 13, 2022June 21, 2022April 1, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 80% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's decision to allow Ukrainians to stay in Canada permanently.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately implement a government-assisted refugee program for Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada is committed to helping Ukrainians and has announced a number of measures to help people affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. For Ukrainians who want to come to Canada temporarily, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel opened as of March 17, 2022, to an unlimited number of Ukrainians and their immediate family members fleeing the war. This is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members to come to Canada and eliminates many of the normal visa requirements. As of May 13, 2022, IRCC has already received more than 220,000 applications under this program and approved over 100,000 applications. The latest key figures are available on the IRCC website. On March 30, 2022, the Government of Canada announced that Ukrainians entering Canada as temporary residents will have access to settlement services, which are typically only available to permanent residents. Settlement services include language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports for Ukrainians as they settle into their new communities. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced additional measures including targeted charter flights; short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met; and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. Further, in recognition that many Canadians and permanent residents have family in Ukraine, IRCC is quickly implementing a special family reunification sponsorship pathway. On May 11, 2022, the Government of Canada announced three federal charter flights to Winnipeg, Montréal and Halifax for people approved through the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel program and their family members.While the measures above fall outside of Canada’s Refugee Resettlement Program, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel allows for large numbers of Ukrainians in need to arrive in Canada more quickly than traditional refugee pathways.  The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) or other designated referral agency refers refugees to the Government of Canada under the Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR) Program. Individuals who are most at risk of persecution and have no other access to a durable solution may be referred under Canada’s resettlement programs. Individuals cannot apply directly to become a Government Assisted Refugee.The Government will continue to monitor the evolving situation in Ukraine, and engage with provinces, territories, and other partners on how we can continue to collectively support these efforts.
RefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00866441-00866 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 23, 2022January 30, 2023April 1, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01952441-01952 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 22, 2023December 12, 2023April 1, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00705441-00705 (Foreign affairs)SalmaZahidScarborough CentreLiberalONSeptember 26, 2022November 14, 2022May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWHEREAS: The war on the Tigray region of Ethiopia has resulted in a man-made famine; The World Food Program estimates that 83% of people in Tigray need emergency food assistance;Since mid-December 2021, no food aid needed was delivered;The people of Tigray are under a siege imposed by the Ethiopian government; The blockade of food, medical, power, telecommunication, and the internet has contributed to the humanitarian crisis; UNOCHA reports, 3.9 million people in Tigray need immediate health services and intervention; Medical professionals at Ayder hospital confirm that essential medical supplies have been depleted, and WHO was denied access to deliver medical aid to Tigray;Eritrean and Ethiopian forces destroyed Tigray's food sources and continue the ethnic cleansing of Tigrayans in Western and Eastern Tigray; andThe regional government of Tigray sent a letter to the UNSG on December 19, 2021, calling for an unconditional ceasefire.THEREFORE, we, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:
  • Demand unhindered access to the whole of Tigray and provide life-saving food, medical, and humanitarian assistance;
  • Demand the immediate restoration of communication services in Tigray;
  • Demand internationally monitored and verifiable withdrawal of Eritrean forces from Tigray and the restoration of pre-war territorial boundaries;
  • Impose an arms embargo on Eritrea, Ethiopia, and all drone and weapon supplying actors; and
  • Officially recognize the genocide committed on Tigray by Eritrean Defense Forces, Ethiopian National Defense Forces, Amhara Special Forces, and Amhara regional militias.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is deeply concerned by the ongoing conflict in northern Ethiopia and continues to press for a cessation of hostilities, a negotiated political resolution to the conflict, and inclusive national dialogue to address the conflict’s root causes. Canada continues to register its alarm over violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law in northern Ethiopia and calls on all parties to stop the ongoing violations, to support accountability processes, and to ensure justice for victims and survivors.The Government of Canada continues to call upon all parties to the conflict to fulfill their obligation to allow and to facilitate safe rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to those in need throughout the conflict-affected areas. Canada has consistently called for an immediate end to the violations of international humanitarian law and human rights violations and abuses and continues to press parties to uphold their commitments under international human rights and humanitarian law. Canada provides funding for humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia, based on need. To date in 2022, Canada has provided $63.5 million in humanitarian assistance to address the needs of people affected by the crisis across Ethiopia, including in Tigray. This funding to UN agencies, the Red Cross, and NGOs is helping to provide food, treatment for acute malnutrition and other critical healthcare, access to safe water and sanitation, emergency shelter and essential household items, and protection services to populations affected by drought, conflict, and insecurity.The promotion and protection of human rights are an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Along with partners in the international community, Canada is shocked and dismayed by the grave violations of human rights law and of international humanitarian law taking place in Ethiopia. The Government of Canada is committed to standing up for human rights and striving for a world where the rights and freedoms of all people are protected and respected. On September 22, 2022, officials of the Government of Canada spoke at the UNHRC and denounced the resumption of hostilities in northern Ethiopia, urged all parties to cease violence immediately, respect human rights and implement accountability measures, and called for the immediate withdrawal of Eritrean Defence Forces.Canada was a major funder, with a contribution of $600,000, to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) joint investigation into the allegations of human rights violations and abuses, and serious violations of international humanitarian law committed by parties to the conflict. Canada continues to urge meaningful action towards the implementation of the OHCHR-EHRC report’s recommendations and to press the Government of Ethiopia to deliver on its commitments in this respect, including credible and transparent investigations to hold perpetrators accountable. Canada also encourages Ethiopia to collaborate with credible and independent international investigations, such as the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia (ICHREE).Canada found the conclusions of ICHREE’s September 19, 2022 report deeply troubling. The report found reasonable grounds to believe that violations of international humanitarian law- including extrajudicial killings, rape, sexual violence, and starvation of the civilian population as a method of warfare – have been committed in Ethiopia since November 2020. Canada expressed its deep concern through a tweet issued by the Global Affairs Canada corporate account on September 22, 2022.Canada is alarmed by the escalation of hostilities which began in August 2022, including the impact on civilians across northern Ethiopia. Canadian officials have conveyed this to the Government of Ethiopia, including in representations to the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Chief Justice, and parliamentarians. On August 26, 2022, the Government of Canada expressed its deep concern about the resumption of hostilities in northern Ethiopia through a tweet issued by the Global Affairs Canada corporate account, and called for parties to enter negotiations in good faith and provide unimpeded humanitarian access. In a statement on Ethiopia to the UNHRC on September 22, 2022, Canada deplored the resumption of hostilities. In its engagement with all parties to the conflict, Canada has reiterated its strong and ongoing commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution to the conflict, including African Union-led negotiations toward a peace agreement.The Government of Canada responded quickly to the conflict in northern Ethiopia by committing over $3.5 million in early 2021, to peace and stabilization programming, that focuses on increasing conflict resolution capacity and supporting conflict-sensitive, inclusive dialogue, with a particular focus on women.Since November 2021, the Prime Minister has spoken six times with Prime Minister Abiy to discuss the developments in northern Ethiopia, the importance of working toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and the need to contribute to a more united, peaceful, and prosperous Ethiopia. This includes an immediate cessation of hostilities, a political resolution, and an inclusive national dialogue process. The Prime Minister has underscored the importance of ensuring unhindered access to, and delivery of, humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict and has raised Canada’s concerns about human rights, including reports of discrimination against, and targeting of, ethnic Tigrayans and other minorities.The Government of Canada has consistently called for Eritrea’s immediate and full withdrawal from Ethiopia, including through public joint statements with likeminded countries. Canada’s former Ambassador to Sudan, who represents Canada to Eritrea, engaged with Eritrean officials in 2021, urging them to withdraw the Eritrean Defense Forces from northern Ethiopia. On September 20, 2022, a tweet issued from the Global Affairs Canada corporate account deplored the movement of Eritrean Defence Forces in northern Ethiopia and condemned the escalation of hostilities.Canada is deeply concerned for civilians and how they are being impacted by the renewed and escalating violence in northern Ethiopia. Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools, which include dialogue, capacity building, advocacy, multilateral engagement, and other diplomatic actions. Canada's United Nations Act enables the Canadian government to give effect to decisions passed by the United Nations Security Council. Canada imposed sanctions on Eritrea from April 2010 to July 2020, following a UN Security Council decision to terminate sanctions measures. The United Nations does not currently impose any sanctions against Eritrea or Ethiopia, nor does Canada.Canada is judicious in its approach about when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada reviews all of its policy options continuously and tailors its responses to the specifics of each unique situation. Canada will continue to work closely with like-minded governments in considering a broad range of response options related to the ongoing situation in northern Ethiopia. Canada continues to deploy diplomatic and political tools aimed at a peaceful resolution to the conflict.There is broad consensus that serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law by all parties took place in Tigray and other conflict-affected areas of Ethiopia, some of which may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, as outlined in the report of the Ethiopia Human Rights Commission and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Canada continues to press the Government of Ethiopia to investigate and prosecute those who have committed these violations and abuses, and we will continue to work through multilateral mechanisms to support accountability measures. The legal determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must be done by a competent court, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.
Civil and human rightsEthiopiaForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workers
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00498441-00498 (Health)LenWebberCalgary ConfederationConservativeABMay 19, 2022September 20, 2022May 10, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas: The opioid crisis is one of the most deadly public health emergencies of our lifetime, with a death taking place on average every two hours and a death toll of 22,828 in the past five and one quarter years (January 2016 to March 2021); andThe overdose crisis rages.We, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency and:Take steps to end overdose deaths and overdose injuries Immediately collaborate with provinces and territories to develop a comprehensive, pan-Canadian overdose action plan Ensure that any plan considers reforms that other countries have used, such as legal regulation of drugs to ensure safe supply, decriminalization for personal use, and changes to flawed drug policy and policing; and Ensure this emergency is taken seriously with adequately funded programming and supports.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Tragically, the most recent national data indicates that 29 052 apparent opioid toxicity deaths occurred between January 2016 and December 2021. Fentanyl and its analogues continue to be major drivers of the crisis with as many as 86% of accidental apparent opioid toxicity deaths in 2021 involving fentanyl.The Government of Canada also recognizes that this crisis has only become more complex due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade supply and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience, to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.With respect to the request to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency, the Emergencies Act is a federal law that can be used to respond to an urgent, temporary and critical national emergency that seriously endangers the lives, health or safety of Canadians, is of such proportions or nature that it exceeds the capacity or authority of a province to deal with it, and that cannot be dealt with effectively by any other law in Canada. The Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving opioid-related deaths and harms.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis and working with partners to save lives. At the federal level, legislation is not required to access important responses to the overdose crisis, which have included: reducing legislative and regulatory barriers; developing new prescription guidelines and marketing restrictions; launching a public awareness campaign; improving the knowledge base; supporting treatment, safe supply and harm reduction initiatives across Canada; and providing emergency funding to provinces and territories.Provinces and territories (PTs) have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. For example, PTs fund and deliver the majority of direct social and health interventions, such as naloxone distribution, and safer consumption sites, that are shown to effectively reduce opioid overdoses deaths and harms. PTs and municipalities also have the power to declare a public health emergency in response to a significant increase in overdose-related deaths, as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta declaring a public health crisis in May 2017. More recently, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency in January 2022. The declaration of a PT public health emergency allows a PT government to access and exercise extraordinary powers to address a crisis.Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach, and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. It includes four key pillars – prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and enforcement. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the Government of Canada has taken urgent action to address the overdose crisis through significant commitments of over $800 million. Recent examples in this area include:
  • over $282 million to the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) through the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, Budget 2021, and Budget 2022, in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide frontline services in a COVID-19 context, to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services;
  • $200 million, with $40 million per year ongoing, to enhance the delivery of culturally appropriate addictions treatment and prevention services in First Nations communities;
  • more than $20 million for Naloxone distribution, education and training; and,
  • $13 million over five years to launch a new national, multi-year public education campaign to help reshape Canadians’ attitudes and perceptions about people who use drugs.
In addition to these investments, in order to prevent and reduce substance-related harms, the Government of Canada has undertaken a broad range of policy, legislative and regulatory actions, such as:
  • approving exemptions to establish supervised consumption sites (since January 1, 2016, the number of supervised consumption sites operating in Canada has increased from 1 to 39), and providing provincial and territorial class exemptions to facilitate the establishment of Urgent Public Health Need Sites (commonly known as overdose prevention sites);
  • reducing barriers to providing people who use drugs with safer, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives to the toxic illegal drug supply and supporting 25 safer supply service delivery projects in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick, as well as a National Community of Practice, for a total investment of over $73.5 million (note: the number of active projects is subject to change as sites open and close);
  • providing guidance and leadership on the prescribing, dispensing, and delivery of opioids and other narcotics during the pandemic;
  • creating new regulatory pathways under the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations used to authorize medication used to treat addiction not otherwise available (e.g., approving diacetylmorphine hydrochloride as a supervised injectable opioid agonist therapy for adult patients with severe opioid use disorder and amending federal regulations to allow healthcare practitioners to provide diacetylmorphine-assisted treatment outside of a hospital setting, if permitted by their province or territory);
  • supporting the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which encourages people to seek emergency help at the scene of an overdose by providing some legal protection against simple drug possession charges;
  • introducing Bill C-5, which proposes amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act which, among other measures, would repeal mandatory minimum penalties for drug related-offences, and would require prosecutors to consider alternative measures to laying charges or prosecuting individuals for simple possession of drugs, including diversion to treatment programs; and,
  • at the request of the province of British Columbia, granting a time-limited exemption for three years under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs.
The Mandate Letter of the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health calls on the Minister to, “Advance a comprehensive strategy to address problematic substance use in Canada, supporting efforts to improve public education to reduce stigma, and supporting provinces and territories and working with Indigenous communities to provide access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction, as well as to create standards for substance use treatment programs.” The Government of Canada is continuing to work with provincial, territorial, Indigenous and municipal officials on options to address their regional needs. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Problematic Substance Use & Harms to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. We are also collaborating with provinces and territories to better understand the evolving crisis, and undertaking timely monitoring and reporting of opioid-related deaths and harms in Canada. Public health officers from the Public Health Agency of Canada have been deployed to support public health surveillance systems in provinces and territories.In addition, engagement with civil society organizations, direct care service providers, academics, people with lived and living experience, and other key stakeholders continues to inform federal actions to reduce opioid-related overdoses and deaths and improve the health and wellbeing of Canadians. For example, we continue to engage with stakeholders to inform them about safer supply and encourage them to look and work within their sphere of influence to remove barriers to this practice. Safer supply services provide a pharmaceutical alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply as a way to help prevent overdoses, improve the health of people who use drugs, and help connect people to trusted and supportive relationships in health and social services. Health Canada is supporting a number of safer supply projects through the Substance Use and Additions Program (SUAP). We have also taken action to increase access to safer supply services by:
  • helping to build the evidence base for safer supply by supporting the evaluation of pilot projects and seeking expert advice, including from health professionals and people who use drugs; 
  • making it easier to access needed medications, including issuing exemptions from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and,
  • sharing resources and guidance on treating substance use disorder for the use of healthcare practitioners.
The Government of Canada is also taking action to ensure that our enforcement response is focused on organized drug crime and the cross-border movement of illegal substances and the precursor chemicals that are used to make many of them. As Canada’s national police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detects, investigates, and disrupts the most serious and complex criminal threats to the safety and security of Canadians and Canadian interests, including transnational and serious organized crime (TSOC) and the illegal drug market. At our borders, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is working to reduce the flow of illegal opioids and related substances, precursor chemicals, and other controlled substances. Efforts to disrupt the involvement of organized crime groups in the production, trafficking, and sale of what are now increasingly toxic substances remain critical, including in support of public health measures to prevent, treat, and reduce the harms associated with the use of those substances. Recent and/or ongoing federal activities include:
  • acquisition of new infrastructure and tools required to assist in the safe examination and sampling of suspected highly toxic substances in addition to increasing intelligence, targeting, and training support;
  • investigating TSOC networks that traffic multiple commodities, within Canada and internationally, as well as online vendors and manufacturers;
  • providing an integrated policing response to drug trafficking and organized crime networks by working closely with local law enforcement agencies, as well as private industry partners, including chemical producers, retailers and distributors, to limit the chemicals used for legitimate purposes from being diverted for the illegal production of controlled substances; and,
  • maintaining strong relationships with international partners, including the United States of America, to support joint operations and investigations involving cross-border drug activity, as well as to facilitate productive policy dialogue and information exchange.
Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of illegal drugs for personal use can perpetuate stigma, increase risks of overdose and other harms, and increase barriers to care. Canada recognizes that drug use stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help ensure that stigma is not present in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides frontline law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and towards supportive and trusted relationships in health and social services. In addition to the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act in May 2017, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada issued guidance to prosecutors directing that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for personal possession offences, except when there are serious aggravating circumstances.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00869441-00869 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 24, 2022January 18, 2023May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, on the advice, guidance, and recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Government of Canada, including Transport Canada, put in place a range of measures to mitigate transportation safety and security risks associated with COVID-19.Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement a comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures, that have evolved throughout the pandemic, based on the best available science, as well as guidance from PHAC. The measures made a real difference in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and have kept Canadian travellers and transportation workers safe, ensuring the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.                                                                        Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation Sector: On June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. In addition, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors are no longer required to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees. Border Measures: On October 1, 2022, the Government of Canada removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, meaning that all travellers, regardless of citizenship, will no longer have to:
  • submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
  • provide proof of vaccination;
  • undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
  • carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada.
COVID-19 Requirements in the Transportation Sector: In alignment with PHACs adjustments to border measures, Transport Canada also removed all existing travel requirements as of October 1, 2022. As such, travellers are no longer required to undergo health checks for air and rail travel, or wear masks on planes and trains. All travellers are strongly recommended to continue wearing high quality and well-fitted masks during their journeys. Cruise measures were also lifted, and travellers are no longer required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use ArriveCAN. A set of guidelines remain in place to protect passengers and crew, which align with the approach used in the United States.The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate measures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure. 
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00561441-00561 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJune 13, 2022August 17, 2022May 4, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Pollinators, including honeybees, are a central element of our food system and a critical pillar of our ecology;The impact of honeybees extends far beyond the pollination of commercial agricultural crops, but the monetary value of just this service is estimated to be in the hundreds of billions of dollars globally each year;In the past decade, extreme declines in bee populations have been measured across North America and throughout Europe, prompting widespread concern from citizens, scientists, and many governments;Many theories have been put forward for this collapse of the bee population, but one of the most likely is a class of pesticides called neonicotinoids, which attack insects' central nervous systems causing paralysis and death, and have proven very harmful in sub-lethal quantities; andFollowing major scientific review of the risks associated with these pesticides, the European Commission began the process of implementing a full ban on the use of neonicotinoids in 2017.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the Government of Canada to, for the sake of our bees and our food security, follow Europe's lead, and adhere to the precautionary principle by banning the use of neonicotinoids in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MPPest control products are regulated in Canada through a federal and provincial regulatory network that delivers a program of pre-market scientific assessment, enforcement, education, and information dissemination. The registration and regulation of pesticides in Canada falls under the responsibility of Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) via the authority of the Pest Control Products Act.Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) works closely with the PMRA to help ensure that pesticides, when used according to directions, do not pose any unacceptable risks to humans and beneficial insects such as bees and other insect pollinators. AAFC supports the PMRA’s rigorous, science-based evaluations of pesticides.Following the August 4th, 2021 announcement to strengthen the capacity and transparency of review process for pesticides, $7 million has been invested for AAFC scientists to accelerate the research, development, and adoption of alternative pest management solutions. These funds support the Minister of Agriculture’s 2021 Mandate Letter commitment to “support food producers who choose alternative pest management approaches that reduce the need for chemical pesticides.”Federal and provincial governments have made investments to better understand and maintain healthy bee populations, including programs that support beekeepers, research geared towards maintaining healthy bee populations, and a national surveillance project to document the health profile of honeybee colonies in Canada:
  • Through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, AAFC works with the provinces to co-fund activities that support environmental sustainability, including bee health. For example, Ontario’s Honey Bee Health Management initiative funds beekeeper operational improvements to reduce biosecurity risks, overwinter loss and the spread of pests and disease for honeybees.
  • Among other projects, AAFC scientists are currently engaged in a Large Scale Applied Genomics Research Project along with several Canadian Universities to develop a new real-time bee health assessment and diagnosis platform using stressor-specific bio-markers. Valued at almost $10 million, this project is known as “BeeCSI” and measures gene expression in bees subjected to various pests, parasites and pesticides in both laboratory and field settings, in order to detect unique and detectable signatures of stress. By discovering expression biomarkers specifically related to pesticide exposure, including those from neonicotinoid insecticides, AAFC scientists are developing tools to more rapidly detect the effects of pesticides on honeybees thereby enabling more proactive management of bee health.
  • The Beekeepers Commission of Alberta in collaboration with the Manitoba Beekeepers Association is undertaking the National Honey Bee Health Survey project and will work closely with colleagues in other provinces as the project progresses, utilizing the National Bee Diagnostic Centre for sample analysis. The goal of the National Honey Bee Health Survey is to establish a bee health database in Canada to document the prevalence, intensity and distribution of pests, pathogens and chemical residues in Canadian honeybee colonies. Phase I of the project has been completed (2014-2017), while Phase II (2019-2022) is underway. Reports are produced annually by the Government of Canada, and are available at the following link. Prior to initiation of the National Honey Bee Health Survey in Canada, surveillance of this nature had only been done at the regional level; the sector is seeking to expand co-ordination and identify issues that present challenges to bee health across the country.
Each province has a provincial apiculturist who collects relevant data about beekeeping and honey production, including the population of honeybee colonies and number of beekeepers. This data shows that, in 2021, the second year marked by significant COVID-19 related challenges to agriculture, there were 13,105 beekeepers in Canada keeping a record high 810,496 colonies of honeybees. This represents a 9 percent increase in beekeepers over the previous year and a 6 percent increase in colonies over the previous year. Colony population data shows a 37 percent increase in Canadian honeybee colonies since 2007. The 2022 data will soon become available.Canadian beekeepers continue to work diligently to grow their beekeeping operations while addressing external and internal factors affecting bee health and AAFC is committed to their protection. 
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): ADAM VAN KOEVERDENThe Government is committed to the health and safety of Canadians, their food supply, and the environment. Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) will continue diligently ensuring that only pest control products meeting our stringent health and environmental standards will be approved for use in Canada. Pesticides are regulated under the Pest Control Products Act (PCPA), which is administered by Health Canada, to protect Canadians and the environment from risks associated with the use of pesticides. Health Canada is aware of the importance of bees and the beekeeping industry, as well as the issues regarding bee health, including concerns over the potential effect of chronic pesticide exposure. Bee health is a complex issue that could be impacted by many potential factors including: diseases, pests, climate, diet and pesticides. Departmental scientists collaborate with scientists from universities and other organizations to determine whether specific pesticides are contributing to pollinator declines. Before a pesticide is allowed to be used or sold in Canada, it must undergo a rigorous scientific assessment process that provides reasonable certainty that no harm to human health and the environment will occur when it is used according to label directions. Depending on the type of pesticide being evaluated, results from up to 200 scientific studies (or in some cases more) may be required to determine whether the pesticide would have any negative effect on people, animals (including beneficial insects, such as pollinators like bees), or plants, including organisms in the soil and water. Health Canada must also periodically re-evaluate pesticides that are on the market to determine whether they continue to meet the Department’s current health and environmental standards and hence, whether they should continue to be permitted for use in Canada. Health Canada has conducted several post-market reviews of neonicotinoid pesticides in recent years. In 2019, Health Canada published pollinator-focused (e.g., bees) re-evaluation decisions for clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam. In order to protect pollinators, Health Canada cancelled several uses of these pesticides and added further restrictions to other uses, such as prohibiting spraying of some crops before or during bloom. It should be noted that these decisions were made following the consideration of a large variety of published independent scientific data, including those reviewed by other internationally recognized regulatory agencies (such as the European Union). On May 19, 2021, Health Canada released the final re-evaluation decision for the neonicotinoid pesticide, imidacloprid. This followed the recent special review decisions related to aquatic organisms for two neonicotinoid pesticides, clothianidin and thiamethoxam, released by Health Canada on March 31, 2021. Previously, Health Canada had consulted publicly on a proposal to cancel all outdoor uses of these pesticides. Over 47,000 comments were received during neonicotinoid consultations, as well as a substantial amount of new information, including new studies and water monitoring data. In order to protect the environment, in this final decision, Health Canada cancelled some uses of imidacloprid, and introduced additional mitigation measures and restrictions on some of the uses that remain registered, which is consistent with the Special Review decisions for clothianidin and thiamethoxam. On February 24, 2022 the Special Review Decision SRD2022-02 on the potential environmental risk related to squash bee exposure to clothianidin, thiamethoxam and imidacloprid used on cucurbits, was published. All comments received on the proposed decision were considered. Based on the comments, an additional environmental risk assessment to address potential risk to squash bees that could be exposed to persistent neonicotinoid residues from seed treatments was conducted as part of the Special Review. Ultimately, the Special Review did not result in a change to the risk conclusions described in the 2019 pollinator re-evaluation decisions of these pesticides. Risks are considered acceptable when applied according to the existing mitigation measures. The full re-evaluations for clothianidin and thiamethoxam have also been initiated and Health Canada is targeting to publish the proposed re-evaluation decisions by spring 2023 for public 90-day consultation, as indicated in the published PMRA Re-evaluation and Special Review Work Plan 2021-2026. The Department will consider all comments received during this consultation period before finalizing its decisions. These full re-evaluations will also include looking at any new scientific data relating to potential impacts on pollinator insects (e.g., bees), that have been published since Health Canada’s 2019 pollinator-focused re-evaluation decisions. It is important to note that scientific data and information considered during these scientific evaluations may come from a variety of sources, such as from registrants, federal and provincial governments, academia and the research community, other internationally recognized regulatory agencies, as well as a large body of published, independent scientific studies. When the science-based assessment indicates that potential risk to human health or the environment is not acceptable when risk management measures are applied, Health Canada will cancel either specific uses or all uses of a pesticide, depending on the assessment. When all uses of a pesticide are cancelled, the pesticide is phased-out from the Canadian market. Health Canada cannot speak to the decision-making process in other countries with regards to neonicotinoids, as each country takes into account its own legislative requirements, policies, and scientific analysis before making a decision. Nevertheless, Health Canada continues to monitor for new information related to neonicotinoid pesticides, including regulatory action taken by other governments, and will take appropriate action if there are reasonable grounds to believe that use of the products is resulting in risks of concern to human health or the environment.
BeesNeonicotinoids
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00843441-00843 (Democratic process)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCNovember 14, 2022January 30, 2023May 13, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Canada's electoral system from its very inception has always been a "First-past-the-Post" (FPTP) system, unfairly resulting in either a Liberal or Conservative government with virtually no opposition, no impact on the popular vote leading to distorted Canadian values;
  • Proportional Representation (PR) is a principle that says that the percentage of seats a party has in the legislature should reflect the percentage of the people who voted for that party, so that if a party gets 40% of the popular vote, they should get 40% of the seats;
  • In the 2021 election the Liberals had 32.62% winning 160 seats, Conservatives 33.74% winning 119 seats, Bloc Quebecois 7.64% winning 32 seats, NDP 17.82% winning 25 seats, People Party 4.94% winning 0 seat and Green Party 2.33% winning 2 seats;
  • Under a FPTP system, like the current system in Canada, a party can win a majority of seats and all the power with less than half the popular vote;
  • Proportional Representation (PR) ensures that majority governments have an actual majority of the voters (popular vote) backing them;
  • Many other countries such as Germany, Italy, Ireland, New Zealand and the Netherlands have progressed from a FPTP system to a PR System; and
  • Many American States are seeking to implement "Ranked Choice Voting" so that all votes are calculated.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to move to a "Proportional Representation” system to bring credible representation to Canadians.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELLThe Government of Canada is committed to improving and strengthening our democracy. Our electoral system (i.e., the fundamental rules determining how votes are translated into seats in the House of Commons) is one of the most foundational pieces of our democracy – at its core is a question of how we, as Canadians, govern ourselves. The Government’s view has been clear: major reforms to the electoral system should not be made if they lack the broad support of Canadians.In 2016, the Government consulted broadly with Canadians on electoral reform. In fact, the electoral reform consultations were among the largest and farthest-reaching consultations ever undertaken by the Government of Canada.These public consultations included 57 parliamentary committee meetings that heard from 763 witnesses, 172 consultations undertaken by individual Members of Parliament (MPs), a cross-country Ministerial tour that made stops in 18 towns and cities across every province and territory, and online consultations that more than 360,000 people in Canada participated.The Government of Canada is thankful to all Canadians who took part in these consultations.The Government listened to Canadians carefully and gained valuable insights into what Canadian democracy means across the country. Canadians cherish their democracy and value the direct connection they have with their MPs. Canadians want their parliamentarians to work with each other and to cooperate on policy priorities. They want their government to be accountable. They want their MPs to act in the interests of their constituents. The Government agrees.A clear preference for a new electoral system, let alone a consensus, did not emerge from the consultations that took place. Consequently, the Government decided not to proceed with changing the electoral system.The first-past-the-post system has served this country for over 150 years and advances a number of democratic values Canadians hold dear, such as strong local representation, stability, and accountability.Building on these values, the Government has continued to take steps to modernize the electoral process and to make it more accessible, transparent and secure. The Elections Modernization Act, passed in 2018, represents a generational overhaul of the Canada Elections Act, allowing it to better address the realities facing our democratic institutions in the 21st century. Going forward, the Government of Canada will continue to protect and strengthen Canada’s democratic institutions, including the federal electoral process.
Electoral reformProportional representation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 8, 2023441-01336441-01336 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 25, 2023June 8, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01506441-01506 (Civil and human rights)PhilipLawrenceNorthumberland—Peterborough SouthConservativeONJune 5, 2023September 18, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01831441-01831 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 25, 2023December 11, 2023May 27, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezAs of June 20, 2022, the Government suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel, the federally regulated transportation sector, and federal government employees. Proof of vaccination is no longer required for travel within Canada or for those working in the federally regulated transportation sector; accommodations for remote communities are also no longer necessary.Other public health measures, under the authority of the Public Health Agency of Canada such as border entry restrictions, passenger testing, masking, quarantine and isolation requirements were also lifted on October 1, 2022.  
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2023441-01311441-01311 (National defence and military operations)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 19, 2023June 2, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination produced its final report in early 2022;Whereas the report calls for clergy from religions which have a different view on gender and sexuality than the Department of National Defence to be banned as chaplains in the Canadian Armed Forces;Whereas the report slanders even mainstream Canadian religions as discriminatory, misogynist, and sexist;Whereas all Canadians, including members and chaplains of the Canadian Armed Forces, are entitled to the Charter-guaranteed right of freedom of religion;Whereas Canadian Armed Forces chaplains serve all members of the Forces without distinction on the basis of religion, gender, or sexual orientation; andWhereas discrimination on the basis of religion is wrong and offensive to Canadians.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Reject the recommendations on chaplaincy in the Canadian Armed Forces in the final report of the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination; and2. Affirm the right of all Canadians, including Canadian Armed Forces chaplains, to freedom of religion.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayLast April, the Minister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination released a comprehensive set of recommendations to ensure Canada’s military is safe and welcoming for all. Work is underway to assess the implications of the Advisory Panel’s recommendations, including those on the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, and the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff is coordinating an analysis of each recommendation.The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service’s (RCChS) primary goal is the care of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, without exceptions. It is already the expectation that CAF chaplains uphold the values and ethos of the CAF, just like every other member of the military. When chaplains apply for their roles within the chaplaincy, they undergo a rigorous process to assess their ability to provide spiritual support within the context of CAF values. Anyone who successfully makes it through this assessment has demonstrated their ability to provide religious or spiritual counsel to CAF members of all or no faiths, without judgement or exception.To this end, the RCChS continues to embrace CAF values and ethos, and has taken significant steps in the past several years to strengthen its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For example, as of 2019, in order to better serve the CAF and represent the religious/spiritual diversity of Canadian society, the RCChS sought to include a wider number of traditions not previously represented in CAF chaplaincy. This resulted in the enrollment of chaplains from Sikh, Buddhist, and Humanist traditions. The RCChS also shifted from the historical requirement of “ordained” status to a more broadly defined status of “credentialed as a faith tradition leader.” In doing so, the RCChS has ensured wider opportunities for women from faith traditions where they cannot be ordained, but who meet qualification standards for CAF chaplaincy as credentialed faith tradition leaders. This is already the case for Roman Catholic and Muslim women, currently serving in the RCChS, and will now be an option for women from other faith traditions.To further promote diversity and inclusion, the RCChS has instituted several new advisor positions, including an Indigenous Advisor, 2SLGBTQi+ Advisor, Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Advisor, Gender Advisor, and Advisor to the Commander of Chief Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC) in an effort to raise awareness, educate, and innovate. These advisors play a critical role in providing strategic input and advice to ensure direction and guidance, and programs integrate diverse perspectives with a view to enhancing inclusive engagement on behalf of the RCChS. The CAF continues to take positive steps to ensure that the chaplaincy represents Canadian society and supports the needs of its broader membership.
Canadian ForcesChaplaincy services and chaplainsMinister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism, Discrimination with a focus on anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism, LGBTQ2+ Prejudice, Gender Bias and White SupremacyReligious discrimination
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01252441-01252 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 30, 2023May 15, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00816441-00816 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022June 7, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, on the advice, guidance, and recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Government of Canada, including Transport Canada, put in place a range of measures to mitigate transportation safety and security risks associated with COVID-19.Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement a comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures, that have evolved throughout the pandemic, based on the best available science, as well as guidance from PHAC. The measures made a real difference in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and have kept Canadian travellers and transportation workers safe, ensuring the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation Sector: On June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. In addition, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors are no longer required to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees. Border Measures: On October 1, 2022, the Government of Canada removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, meaning that all travellers, regardless of citizenship, no longer have to:
  • submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
  • provide proof of vaccination;
  • undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
  • carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada.
COVID-19 Requirements in the Transportation Sector: In alignment with PHACs adjustments to border measures, Transport Canada also removed all existing travel requirements as of October 1, 2022. As such, travellers are no longer required to undergo health checks for air and rail travel, or wear masks on planes and trains. All travellers are strongly recommended to continue wearing high quality and well-fitted masks during their journeys. Cruise measures were also lifted, and travellers are no longer required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use ArriveCAN. A set of guidelines remain in place to protect passengers and crew, which align with the approach used in the United States.The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate measures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure. 
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00095441-00095 (Justice)TakoVan PoptaLangley—AldergroveConservativeBCDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 8, 2022441-00432441-00432 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 10, 2022June 8, 2022June 15, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00064441-00064 (Justice)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00065441-00065 (Justice)BobZimmerPrince George—Peace River—Northern RockiesConservativeBCDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 19, 2022441-00361441-00361 (Justice)RobMorrisonKootenay—ColumbiaConservativeBCApril 6, 2022May 19, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 19, 2022441-00362441-00362 (Justice)BradRedekoppSaskatoon WestConservativeSKApril 6, 2022May 19, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00668441-00668 (Justice)LenWebberCalgary ConfederationConservativeABSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022June 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00995441-00995 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023July 17, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01036441-01036 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023May 30, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2022441-00798441-00798 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 24, 2022December 7, 2022November 29, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00993441-00993 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01088441-01088 (Parliament and politics)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the Government through rhetoric, policy, action, and inaction has led to a national unity crisis. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the Government to take the following actions to address the situation:1. That the Government take responsibly for creating a national unity crisis; and2. That the Government ensure that there are no bureaucratic or legislative roadblocks for provinces who wish to exercise their constitutionally allowed measures of autonomy.
Response by the Prime MinisterSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELLThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of maintaining national unity and is committed to working openly and collaboratively with every provincial and territorial government to serve and improve the lives of all Canadians. It recognizes and respects provinces’ autonomy to pass laws and implement policies within their areas of jurisdiction.Many of Canada’s most pressing challenges transcend borders and require intergovernmental cooperation, like reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, combatting climate change, and controlling inflation in a globalized economy. The Government of Canada favours a flexible view of federalism, best described as a modern cooperative federalism, that accommodates and encourages intergovernmental cooperative efforts.As such, the Government of Canada is committed to working with provincial and territorial governments to find solutions to common challenges that respect the division of powers and harness the ideas and expertise of each order of government. Through bilateral and multilateral forums, federal-provincial-territorial ministers and senior officials from their respective civil services meet regularly to advance intergovernmental initiatives in the interest of all Canadians.The Government of Canada values the contribution of provinces and territories in building and maintaining national unity through intergovernmental cooperation, which necessarily entails respectful dialogue and compromise.
Government accountabilityNational unityProvincial jurisdiction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00069441-00069 (Environment)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022February 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the reduction of global net carbon emissions is a critical endeavor in our fight against climate change;Whereas, the Liberal Government committed to net-zero emissions by 2050;Whereas, the Liberal Government committed to exceed Canada's 2030 goal by introducing new carbon reducing measures;Whereas, Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a leading measure to reduce global carbon emissions.Therefore we, the undersigned, Citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to introduce new tax incentives to attract CCUS investment to Canada.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of accelerating action to fight climate change and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This is why, in addition to a number of other incentives to support carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), Budget 2021 announced an investment tax credit for capital invested in CCUS projects. The government intends to make the investment tax credit available starting in 2022, with the goal or reducing emissions by at least 15 megatonnes of CO2 annually.Strengthened Climate PlanCanada’s strengthened climate plan, “A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy”, was announced in December 2020. It proposes measures to cut energy waste, provide clean and affordable transportation and power, build Canada’s clean industrial advantage, and support nature based climate solutions. It also proposes to put a rising price on pollution through to 2030. The plan is supported by an initial $15 billion in investments that will create jobs, grow the middle class, and support workers in a stronger and cleaner economy. This is in addition to the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s $6 billion for clean infrastructure that was announced in the fall.CCUS technologies will play a role in helping Canada exceed its 2030 Paris Agreement emissions reductions target. Under the proposed strengthened climate plan, CCUS projects can benefit from credits that are generated under carbon pricing regimes, and the Clean Fuel Standard if projects reduce the carbon intensity of fuels for fuel suppliers. The plan also provides direct support that may be available for CCUS investments through a new Net Zero Accelerator that will provide $8 billion over seven years via the Strategic Innovation Fund. The fund is expected to face high demand as it aims to rapidly expedite decarbonization projects with large emitters, scale-up clean technology, and accelerate Canada’s industrial transformation across all sectors. Budget 2021 also announced $319 million over seven years to Natural Resources Canada to support research, development, and demonstrations that would improve the commercial viability of CCUS. Certain projects could also be complemented by funding under the $1.5 billion Low-carbon and Zero-emissions Fuels Fund to increase the production and use of low-carbon fuels. As well, investments by Sustainable Development Technology Canada will support further advancement of pre-commercial clean technologies.As announced in the strengthened climate plan, work is underway to develop a comprehensive CCUS strategy and explore other opportunities to help keep Canada globally competitive in this growing industry. It is important that governments continue to work with stakeholders to determine the best approach to leveraging this technology in Canada.Tax SupportThe government intends for the new investment tax credit announced in Budget 2021 to be available for a broad range of CCUS applications across different industrial subsectors, including blue hydrogen projects and direct air capture projects. It is not intended that the investment tax credit be available for Enhanced Oil Recovery projects. The Department of Finance Canada is carrying out an extensive consultation on the investment tax credit that gave stakeholders from all industrial subsectors, provincial and territorial governments, as well as other interested parties or members of the public an opportunity to provide input on the design of the investment tax credit. On the same timeline, the government will consider how equivalent tax support could be provided to producers of green hydrogen. Active engagement with stakeholders is still ongoing.The Accelerated Investment Incentive that was announced in the 2018 Fall Economic Statement provides an enhanced first-year allowance for certain eligible property that is subject to Capital Cost Allowance rules. CCUS projects are typically capital intensive and can benefit from a more rapid expensing of capital for the purpose of calculating business income tax. The incentive applies to property acquired after November 20, 2018, and that is available for use before 2028. A phase-out will begin for property that becomes available for use after 2023.Support for Transitioning SectorsThe Government of Canada has also announced support for high emitting sectors of the economy to assist them with their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As part of the Government’s COVID economic response plan, $2.8 billion has been allocated for the energy sector to support workers and reduce emissions. This includes $750 million for the Emissions Reduction Fund to help oil and gas companies reduce methane emissions, $1.7 billion to the Western provinces and the Alberta Orphan Wells Association to support work to clean up orphan and inactive oil and gas wells, and $320 million for Newfoundland and Labrador to support workers in the offshore sector. This funding will sustain jobs in the energy sector while cleaning up the environment. In addition, the Government has committed $185 million to support communities and workers affected by the phase out of coal-fired electricity through measures aimed at skills development and economic diversification. The Government will continue to work with high emitting sectors as Canada transitions to a low-carbon economy.
Carbon capture, utilization and storageForeign investments in CanadaTax measures
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2022441-00758441-00758 (Taxation)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 18, 2022December 1, 2022February 12, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, the current pandemic is causing significant disruptions to business models; Whereas, during the 2019 Federal election, then federal environment minister said the carbon tax would be frozen at $50 a tonne annually as of 2022;Whereas, the Liberal Government has repeatedly told Canadians that the Carbon Tax would be revenue neutral for most taxpayers;Whereas, low- and middle-income Canadians are already overtaxed;Whereas, the first-ever annual carbon tax revenue report indicates tax collections were as much as 21% higher than rebates paid to taxpayers in four provinces - Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and New Brunswick;Whereas, the 'A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy' plan now proposes to increase the Carbon Tax to $170 per tonne as of 2030.Therefore we, the undersigned, Citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to keep its promise to Canadians and not increase the Carbon Tax beyond $50 per tonne.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada knows that climate change presents a threat to our long-term health and economic prosperity. Even in these challenging times, good environmental policy and addressing climate change matter.Putting a price on pollution is an important part of Canada’s future, and the Government is doing this in a way that maintains affordability for households and ensures the competitiveness of Canadian companies. All of the direct proceeds generated by the federal pollution pricing system are returned to the province or territory of origin. The price on pollution is revenue neutral to the federal government.In jurisdictions that have not proposed their own fuel charge consistent with the federal benchmark criteria – Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta – the federal price on pollution is in place. In those provinces, approximately 90 percent of direct proceeds from the fuel charge are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive payments. Most households get more in Climate Action Incentive payments than the increased costs they face from the federal pollution pricing system. The remaining fuel charge proceeds are used to support small businesses, Indigenous groups and farmers.The Government of Canada will continue to take further action as required to ensure that the health of Canadians is protected, that families and businesses are supported, and that the economy remains strong in the face of uncertainty.To this end, the Government of Canada recently proposed to increase the price on pollution through to 2030, and will continue to provide support to Canadians so that the majority of households will continue to be better off. Going forward, the federal price on pollution will continue to be revenue neutral for the Government of Canada. The government remains committed to ensuring that the federal price on pollution remains affordable, and to helping households to make investments to increase energy efficiency and further reduce emissions.
Carbon pricingCarbon tax
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00913441-00913 (Media and telecommunications)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 1, 2022January 18, 2023June 7, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) already has sweeping regulatory powers over traditional forms of media.Whereas, the original mandate of C-10 was to expand Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulatory powers to include online platforms such as Netflix and Hulu.Whereas, Liberal members of the Heritage Committee voted for an amendment to Bill C-10 that would include social media platforms and other internet platforms within the jurisdiction of CRTC regulation.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the government of Canada to:1. Respect Canadians' fundamental right to freedom of expression. 2. Prevent internet censorship in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government, and the Minister of Canadian Heritage, who is the Minister responsible for Bill C-11 (a revised version of the bill previously introduced in the 43rd Parliament as C-10), would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding issues of freedom of expression and Internet censorship.The Broadcasting Act is about promoting cultural expression, not inhibiting it. It ensures that Canadian cultural expression is fostered and promoted.Canadians’ rights and freedoms under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms are of paramount importance. Freedom of expression is already safeguarded in section 2(3) of the Broadcasting Act.The Broadcasting Act needs to reflect today’s digital reality. Canadian broadcasters and streaming services should play by the same rules. The Online Streaming Act (Bill C-11) will ensure that streaming services showcase Canadian music and stories, as well as support our creators and producers. Bill C-11 will also ensure that the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has the proper tools to put in place a modern and flexible regulatory framework.Bill C-11 clearly excludes users from being considered broadcasters in respect of the programs they post to a social media service. This means that the CRTC could not impose obligations on users of social media services. The ability of users to create online communities and to share information, ideas, personal messages and videos is not put into question by Bill C-11.This law would not control what Canadians can or cannot see online. Canadians will always be able to choose what to listen to and to watch.As it currently stands, Parliamentarians have proposed additional amendments to Bill C-11 to protect Canadians’ freedom of expression. The Government supports these amendments.
BroadcastingC-10, An Act to amend the Broadcasting Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other ActsFreedom of speechInternet
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00048441-00048 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 13, 2021January 31, 2022December 3, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive commercial, institutional and people-to-people ties.(1) The maintenance of Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, as expressed through the One Country, Two Systems framework, is a high priority for the Government of Canada. Under this framework, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. Canada remains committed to supporting Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy within the One Country, Two Systems framework, and to working with international partners to advance the goal of a free, stable and prosperous Hong Kong where human rights and fundamental freedoms under the Basic Law are guaranteed. We will continue to monitor developments in Hong Kong closely, including those relating to the territory’s judicial system, and reserve the right to undertake appropriate action in response to future developments.(4) In advance of the imposition of the National Security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on May 22, 2020, expressing deep concern over proposals to introduce national security legislation in Hong Kong. Another statement was issued with Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States on May 28, 2020, reiterating concerns over the anticipated introduction of the National Security Law. On June 17, 2020, Canada joined its G7 partners to release a joint statement urging China to reconsider its decision.Following the imposition and implementation of the National Security Law, Canada has worked in concert with international partners to support the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Hong Kong residents and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the Basic Law and the One Country, Two Systems framework. Canada also announced new immigration initiatives for Hong Kong and has sought to complement and align these initiatives with measures taken by our likeminded partners.Subsequently, following the adoption by the National People’s Congress of a package of changes to the electoral system in Hong Kong in March 2021, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union, also released a joint statement expressing grave concerns at the Chinese authorities’ decision. The joint statement made it clear such a decision strongly indicates that the authorities in mainland China are determined to eliminate dissenting voices and opinions in Hong Kong, while also stifling political pluralism, contrary to the aim of moving towards universal suffrage as set out in the Basic Law.The wider chilling effects of the National Security Law and the growing restrictions on freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, which are being felt across civil society is deeply concerning. On December 20, 2021 Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, noting the outcome of the Legislative Council elections in Hong Kong, expressed grave concern over the erosion of democratic elements of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s electoral system.While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Sean FraserForeign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Foreign charges and convictions are examined to see whether they would have been an offence under Canadian laws if they had occurred in Canada.Immigration officers determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted for that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specifics facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents—such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, they may consider, on a case-by-case basis, using relief mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00025441-00025 (Taxation)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCDecember 2, 2021January 31, 2022November 26, 2021Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account of 83% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regularjobs, $2.25 an hour.
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training, and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they lives; and
  • It would help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Private Members Bill C-264 and increase the tax exemption from $3,000 to $10,000 for lines 31220 and 31240 to help our essential volunteer firefighters and volunteer search and rescue people across the country.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government recognizes the contributions of all volunteers and the important roles they play in their communities. In light of this, reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by volunteers in the course of their duties may generally be reimbursed on a non-taxable basis. Additionally, emergency services volunteers are eligible for an income exemption of up to $1,000 if they received an honorarium from a government, municipality, or other public authority. The Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit provide tax recognition for eligible volunteers who do not receive an honorarium or who do not claim the income exemption.Our Government is committed to a tax system that is fair, and that works for the middle class. In this regard, we are increasing the amount of money Canadians can earn before paying federal income tax to $15,000 by 2023 for all but the wealthiest Canadians.As we enter a new phase of the pandemic, the Government of Canada remains focused on finishing the fight against COVID-19, supporting Canadians and Canadian businesses, and ensuring a strong recovery for everyone.
Emergency servicesTax creditsVolunteering and volunteers
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00011441-00011 (Human diseases)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 26, 2021January 31, 2022November 23, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that currently has no cure;
  • The expected lifespan of someone diagnosed with ALS is 2-5 years;
  • Successful clinical trials of ALS treatments and drugs have taken place in other countries;
  • ALS impacts not only the individual but also their families, friends and loved ones;
  • It took a short amount of time for COVID-19 vaccines to be approved by Health Canada; and
  • Health Canada has been slow in approving new ALS treatments.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Encourage Health Canada to swiftly review and approve AMX0035 within 3-6 months of its submission;2. Create a pilot project to reduce the delay in obtaining access to innovative Health Canada approved ALS treatments;3. Position Canada as a world leader in ALS research; and4. Allow Canadians to have access to peer country reviewed cutting edge ALS treatments, giving terminally ill patients access to these life saving drugs.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of patients having access to drugs that may help treat their serious or life-threatening conditions, including those with rare diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and is committed to supporting Canadians’ access to safe and effective health products.In Canada, the management of pharmaceuticals is a shared responsibility among the federal, provincial and territorial governments. The federal government is responsible for assessing the safety, efficacy and quality of drugs before authorizing them for sale in Canada, and for monitoring their safety after they enter the Canadian market. The provincial and territorial governments are responsible for the delivery of health care for their residents, including determining which drugs are reimbursed and under what conditions for their eligible populations.Once Health Canada authorizes a drug for sale in Canada, provincial and territorial drug plans then decide if the drug will be eligible for public reimbursement. To inform this decision, public drug plans use the recommendations from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) and Quebec’s Institut national d’excellence en santé et en services sociaux (INESSS).Prescription drugs and drug therapies are evolving quickly, and Canadians want access to the latest, most effective treatment options. The Priority Review of Drug Submissions Policy is available for drugs intended for the treatment, prevention or diagnosis of serious, life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses or conditions, with an accelerated review target date of 180 days instead of the usual 300 days. Additionally, the Notice of Compliance with Conditions pathway provides access to similar drugs which have promising clinical benefit; this pathway has a 200 day review target. Drug manufacturers requesting a Priority Review must demonstrate that their Drug Submission is for a serious, life-threatening or severely debilitating disease or condition for which there is substantial evidence of clinical effectiveness that the drug provides:
  • Effective treatment, prevention or diagnosis of a disease or condition for which no drug is presently marketed in Canada; or,
  • A significant increase in efficacy and/or significant decrease in risk such that the overall benefit / risk profile is improved over existing therapies, preventatives or diagnostic agents for a disease or condition that is not adequately managed by a drug marketed in Canada.
In the case of Amylyx Pharmaceuticals Inc.’s submission for AMX0035, the drug manufacturer was not able to meet these criteria; therefore, a Priority Review was not granted by Health Canada. Due to the serious nature of ALS, and despite not meeting the necessary criteria to be assigned priority review status, Health Canada has committed to reviewing the AMX0035 submission as quickly as possible, having planned for the review of this submission and allocated resources accordingly.To further accelerate access for Canadians to the therapies they require, Health Canada, along with CADTH and INESSS, have also introduced an option for sponsors to seek aligned reviews for drug submissions. Sponsors of qualifying submissions can opt in for an earlier health technology assessment (HTA) review up to 180 days before Health Canada makes its regulatory decision about the drug submission. This aims to reduce time lags between the Department’s market authorization and HTA recommendations, where possible. The current AMX0035 submission is being reviewed as part of an aligned review.In some circumstances, drugs not yet approved in Canada may be accessed through Health Canada’s Special Access Programme (SAP). The SAP provides practitioners with access to non-marketed drugs in order to treat patients with serious or life-threatening conditions when conventional therapies have failed, are unsuitable or offer limited options. Health Canada has been working to reduce the burden on SAP applicants and to secure access to products as rapidly as possible.The Government of Canada has made a commitment to improve access to medications. The Regulatory Review of Drugs and Devices Initiative, which began in 2017, consists of a series of projects to support access to medicines, including working closely with our international regulatory partners to jointly review new drugs.Health Canada is now advancing a Regulatory Innovation Agenda to make its regulations for drugs and devices more agile so that they support innovation while protecting the safety of Canadians. It is building on its experience in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, where agile regulatory approaches, along with extra surge capacity and funding, were used to help enhance timely access to needed  products. For example, Health Canada is modernizing its regulations for clinical trials and for market access, which will help bring more trials to Canada and further enable access to safe, new health innovations. Health Canada is also developing a Patient Involvement (PI) Strategy to ensure that patient expertise, experiences, perspectives, needs and priorities are incorporated into Health Canada’s policy and regulatory work around health products in a meaningful way. This strategy is expected to establish a systematic approach for engaging with patients on the topic of health products, including collecting input and integrating feedback in decision-making.As part of the PI Strategy, Health Canada hosted a Patient Listening Session with the ALS community on December 7, 2021, which allowed Health Canada to ask patient representatives important questions that could inform both its policy and regulatory work. The session was very meaningful and impactful for Health Canada staff, and was appreciated by the participating patient representatives. A summary report of the session will be posted on Health Canada’s website. Ideas generated during the session will be discussed and considered in future policy and regulatory work.The government recognizes the need to better understand the underlying mechanisms for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and investigate potential treatments. That is why, over the past five years, the federal government – through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) – has invested approximately $37 million in research relating to ALS. Some notable examples of this research include:
  • A $2.8M foundation grant, awarded to Dr. Jean-Pierre Julien of Université Laval to study the pathogenic pathways of ASL and to develop innovative treatment for ALS based on new therapeutic targets.
  • A $4.9M foundation grant, awarded to Dr. Guy Rouleau of McGill University to develop a drug discovery platform using ALS relevant cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells prepared from patients. His research will focus on the causative role for somatic mutations in the spinal cord to explain the cause of a significant fraction of sporadic ALS cases.
  • A $1M project grant, awarded to Dr. Honglin Luo and Dr. Neil Cashman of the University of British Columbia to study the role of enteroviral infection in ALS to identify new factors that contribute to the development of ALS and develop new treatments for ALS.
  • A $952K project grant, awarded to Dr. Jeehye Park at the Hospital for Sick Children to identify key disease-initiating events and investigate how and why these specific neuronal groups are more susceptible to degeneration. Identification of the disease-initiating events will provide important clues to the development of effective strategies for early disease prevention and therapeutic intervention for ALS.
Moreover, the Government, through CIHR, has a long history of collaborating with partners, such as the ALS Society to advance research on ALS ,and will continue to support national and international initiatives that provide the evidence we need to tackle this terrible disease.Finally, Budget 2019 proposed to invest up to $1 billion over two years, starting in 2022-2023, with up to $500 million per year ongoing, to help Canadians with rare diseases access the drugs they need. We recognize that, for many Canadians who require prescription drugs to treat rare diseases, the cost of these medications can be astronomically high.To support the development of a national strategy for drugs for rare diseases, a public and stakeholder engagement process was launched in early 2021 and concluded on March 26th, 2021. A What We Heard report summarizing key themes and feedback that emerged during the public and stakeholder engagement was published in July 2021.The Government of Canada will continue working with provinces, territories and other partners to improve access of medications. 
Amyotrophic Lateral SclerosisDrug review process
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2022441-00294441-00294 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 11, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, Following Azerbaijan's 44-day war against the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorono-Karabakh), a trilateral ceasefire agreement was signed between Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia - outside of the purview of the OSCE Minsk Group - ceasing all hostilities on the territory of the Republic of Artsakh.Whereas, while failing to address many challenges facing the region, the agreement specifically included a term relating to the return of prisoners of war and the exchange of the remains of fatalities.Whereas, despite such provisions, as many as 200 Armenian Prisoners of War (POW) illegally remain in Azerbaijani custody, without any transparent mechanisms in place to ensure their safe return.Whereas, since December 2020, Human Rights Watch has published two reports on the status of Armenian POW’s, confirming that they are being subjected to inhuman treatment, torture, humiliation, and other forms of abuse.Whereas, on February 1st, 2021, The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights released a statement, calling for the immediate release of POW’s.Whereas, on May 4, 2021, disturbing reports confirmed that close to 20 POW’s were mutilated and killed by Azerbaijani forces. This is a violation of international law by Azerbaijan, specifically as it relates to the provisions laid out in the Third Geneva Convention, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), all of which are signed by Azerbaijan.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Condemn Azerbaijan's illegal detention of Armenian POW’s and call for their immediate release;2. Use all the diplomatic tools available to advocate for the release of those held captive;3. Condemn the ongoing state-sponsored anti-Armenian hatred in Azerbaijan;4. Denounce all aggressive rhetoric from Turkey and Azerbaijan against Armenia and Artsakh;5. Provide the necessary humanitarian assistance to ensure the safety and viability of the population of Artsakh and facilitate the exchange of the remains of fatalities.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada is deeply concerned by ongoing tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and calls on all parties to continue engaging in dialogue and efforts toward a sustainable peace. Canada supports all UN Security Council Resolutions on Nagorno-Karabakh and the efforts of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. Canada supports a negotiated political solution to the conflict, as well as the continuation of dialogue between the parties towards promoting confidence-building measures. Armenia and Azerbaijan, and all external parties, must continue working together to build mutual confidence at this very sensitive time.Canada continues to monitor the situation related to the Armenian Prisoners of War (POWs) and other detainees, and is aware of the difficulties in securing their release. Canada has welcomed the release of detainees by Azerbaijan since May 2021, as well as the sharing of landmine maps by Armenia. Through both bilateral and multilateral channels, Canada continues to call for accelerating the immediate release of all detainees as a key step in the confidence-building process. The release of POWs and detainees remains one of Canada’s priorities, and Canada will continue to raise its concerns whenever the opportunity arises.Canada remains deeply concerned about the allegations of human rights violations facing Armenian POWs and detainees, and calls on the respective governments to fully abide by the simultaneous orders issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for provisional measures against both Armenia and Azerbaijan, including to take all necessary measures to prevent the incitement and promotion of racial hatred, including by officials and public institutions, and to protect persons captured by Azerbaijan during the conflict from bodily harm. Canada continues to call on respective governments to investigate human rights allegations diligently in compliance with international human rights law.The Government of Canada is working to address the post-conflict recovery and reconstruction of Nagorno-Karabakh in numerous ways. The Minister of Foreign Affairs is engaged with key partners. Canada maintains regular dialogue with the Government of Armenia and the Government of Azerbaijan, with the support of their embassies in Ottawa and Canada’s embassies to Armenia and Azerbaijan. Canada has provided an additional $1 million in humanitarian funding to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2021, in addition to the $450,000 provided in 2020 to support the ICRC’s budget extension for the region and address urgent needs that have arisen as a result of the conflict in a needs-based manner.Canada will continue to remain engaged and supportive of sustainable peace and security and will continue to assist with humanitarian efforts.
ArmeniaAzerbaijanForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workersPrisoners of war
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 25, 2022441-00161441-00161 (Government services and administration)RachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverNDPBCFebruary 9, 2022March 25, 2022December 8, 2021Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Savary Island in British Columbia had a Canada Post office between 1913-1980;
  • More than 100 full time residents of Savary Island do not receive mail at their primary address;
  • Canada Post is mandated to provide free mail service to all Canadians at their primary address; and
  • The residents of Savary Island have a right to be included in the free mail service to all Canadians.
We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to ensure residents of Savary Island in the Province of British Columbia are serviced by a corporate run post office in their community.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherCanada Post has accepted the petition and will review it.While Canada Post is required through the Canada Post Corporation Act to deliver to every address in Canada, Canada Post determines the mode of delivery which may include delivery to the door, a community mailbox, group mailbox, a rural mailbox, a postal box, general delivery at the post office or delivery to a central point in apartment/office buildings.Canada Post regularly reviews its postal network needs and many factors must be considered when determining the location of a Post Office, including Canada Post’s mandate to be financially self-sufficient. All of its decisions are taken while respecting its Service Charter requirements.
Canada Post CorporationPost offices and outletsSavary Island
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 4, 2022441-00198441-00198 (Environment)SeanCaseyCharlottetownLiberalPEFebruary 17, 2022April 4, 2022December 13, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) Canada announced new measures:
  • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
  • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
  • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 29, 2023441-01757441-01757 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 16, 2023November 29, 2023June 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezAs of June 20, 2022, the Government suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel, the federally regulated transportation sector, and federal government employees. Proof of vaccination is no longer required for travel within Canada or for those working in the federally regulated transportation sector; accommodations for remote communities are also no longer necessary.Other public health measures, under the authority of the Public Health Agency of Canada such as border entry restrictions, passenger testing, masking, quarantine and isolation requirements were also lifted on October 1, 2022.  
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00892441-00892 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 30, 2022January 18, 2023September 14, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00709441-00709 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCSeptember 27, 2022November 14, 2022September 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The U.S. Department of State's 20th Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report indicates that Canada "meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking";
  • The TIP Report notes that Canadian governments "did not provide comprehensive data” on investigations, prosecutions, convictions, or victims' services;
  • The range, quality, and timely delivery of trafficking-specific services varies across Canada, including persistent funding shortages;
  • Coordination between the federal and provincial governments on anti-trafficking measures is poor; and
  • The TIP Report urges Canadian governments to increase the use of proactive law enforcement techniques, increase training for prosecutors and judges, and increase partnerships with the private sector to prevent human trafficking.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: Strengthen the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act to address Canada's shortcomings as mentioned in the TIP Report so that Canada exceeds the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; and Cooperate and coordinate more closely with the provinces, the private sector, and other stakeholders to combat human trafficking in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe 2021 Annual Report on Trafficking in Persons, prepared by the US Government, recognizes that Canada, as a Tier 1 country, fully meets the standards set by the report to combat trafficking in persons and that Canada continues to demonstrate sustained and serious efforts. Combating trafficking in persons in Canadarequires concerted action by all levels of government and a broad range of stakeholders.The Government of Canada continues to demonstrate national leadership and is committed to ensuring a whole-of-government approach and comprehensive way forward to address human trafficking. The Criminal Code provides a robust framework for human trafficking with six specific human trafficking offences, including trafficking in adults, child trafficking, materially benefitting from human trafficking and withholding or destroying identity documents to facilitate this crime, with maximum penalties of up to life imprisonment. Additionally, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act includes a human trafficking-specific offence, which applies where victims are brought into Canada. This offence has a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Justice Canada provides training to law enforcement through the RCMP’s Human Trafficking Investigators Course, offered regularly through the Canadian Police College.The federal government works closely with provinces and territories to support victims of crime, including victims of human trafficking. Specifically, the Justice Canada Victims Fund makes grants and contributions funding available to provincial and territorial governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other eligible recipients for the creation and enhancement of services for victims of crime and to enhance the skills and capacity of those who work with victims of crime so that these professionals and volunteers can better meet victims’ needs.In support of the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking led by Public Safety Canada, Justice Canada makes $1 million per year available through the Victims Fund to NGOs to develop or enhance services for victims of human trafficking. In particular, Justice Canada is providing funding to nine projects in fiscal year 2022-2023 through the Victims Fund. These projects include the establishment or enhancement of services for victims of human trafficking, as well as the development and delivery of training for law enforcement officers and frontline service providers. A total of $1,164,157 in funding was committed in fiscal year 2022-2023 to support victims of human trafficking.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.The Government of Canada takes the issue of human trafficking seriously and is committed to the protection of children, women, girls, and other vulnerable members of society from all forms of exploitation and abuse, including sexual exploitation and labour trafficking in Canada and abroad.The protection of victims of human trafficking is a shared responsibility among all levels of government. Provinces and territories provide services such as health and social services, emergency housing, and legal aid to victims and survivors and in some cases have established their own local strategies and action plans to address human trafficking in their jurisdictions. Similarly, civil society and other non-governmental actors play a critical role in Canada’s response to this crime. The Government of Canada recognizes that human trafficking is a multifaceted issue which requires cooperation with the provinces and territories, the private sector and civil society actors.In 2019, the Government of Canada launched the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking (National Strategy), which brings together federal efforts under one strategic framework, and is supported by an investment of $57.22 million over five years and $10.28 million ongoing. The National Strategy includes measures aligned with the internationally recognized pillars of prevention, protection, prosecution and partnerships. Expanding on these pillars, the National Strategy includes empowerment as a fifth pillar to enhance supports and services to victims of human trafficking. As a whole-of-government approach, the National Strategy sets out a comprehensive way forward to address human trafficking and brings together all federal efforts that aim to address human trafficking under one strategic plan to ensure a collaborative and coordinated national response.Under the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, the Federal Government has developed an enhanced governance structure to enable a more coordinated response to human trafficking. The Human Trafficking Taskforce (HTT), comprised of all relevant federal departments, was established to ensure effective coordination, implementation and management of existing and enhanced efforts to address human trafficking in Canada and abroad. Further, the HTT serves to support the alignment of anti-human trafficking initiatives with other federal government priorities (i.e. Gender-Based Violence and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls). Public Safety Canada has also established robust mechanisms to bolster existing governance through the federal Human Trafficking Taskforce (HTT), these include an Assistant Deputy Ministers meeting, and a Director-General Steering Committee on Human Trafficking which provide oversight of the horizontal initiative.Collaboration and information sharing with federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments through the Public Safety Canada-led FPT Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Working Group remains central to the Government’s efforts. The Government of Canada also hosts a Justice Canada led-FPT Coordinating Committee of Senior Officials on Human Trafficking. These meetings facilitate information sharing and collaboration, and the sharing of best practices and lessons learned to inform policy and program development.Furthermore, under the National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to hosting stakeholder engagements to ensure ongoing outreach and information sharing and to address emerging trends. The purpose of these engagements is to bring together experts, civils society organizations, service providers and other external stakeholders to enhance knowledge and information sharing; better understand stakeholder concerns and priority issues; and, inform forward looking policy and program development. These meetings also provide Public Safety Canada and federal partners with an opportunity to strengthen key relationships and establish new ones as well as identify opportunities for new partnerships.The Government of Canada is committed to combating human trafficking and will continue to work diligently to better understand gaps in Canada’s collective response to this crime to build stronger and safer communities across Canada.
Human traffickingProtection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 14, 2022441-00825441-00825 (Social affairs and equality)Hon.RobertOliphantDon Valley WestLiberalONNovember 1, 2022December 14, 2022September 23, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament assembledWHEREAS:In November 2020 the Prince Edward Island Legislature Special Committee on Poverty tabled a report calling for the creation of a Guaranteed Livable Income pilot program for Prince Edward Island;This report has the support of all political parties in Prince Edward Island to establish a demonstration of a Guaranteed Livable Income (GLI) project in that province; andThe benefits of such a programme for Canadians would be immense, helping to form part of the country's post-COVID economic recovery, and help meet and solidify Canada's commitment to implement the UN Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Begin immediate negotiations with the Government of PEI for the development and implementation of a Guaranteed Livable Incomeproject for Prince Edward Island; and2) That during these negotiations, the Government of Canada ensure that all federal transfer payments that support provincially funded services and programs remain in place, regardless of any initiatives on a Guaranteed Livable Income that are implemented by the Government of Prince Edward Island.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKThe Government of Canada is taking crucial steps to help make life more affordable for more Canadians, while investing to grow the economy and create jobs.  It is important to acknowledge that income security is a shared responsibility across different levels of government. As such, the federal Government recognizes the importance of working with provinces and territories to find solutions to common challenges.This petition calls for negotiations between the Government of Canada and the Government of Prince Edward Island for the development and implementation of a provincial Guaranteed Livable Income, which can be viewed as equivalent to a basic income. The Government of Canada already has ongoing programs with features of a partial basic income, such as the Canada Child Benefit for families with children, and the Old Age Security pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement for seniors. In addition, existing programs such as the Canada Workers Benefit and Employment Insurance (EI) help low-income individuals with labour market attachment or those with insurable employment. These and other initiatives have contributed to progress on lifting Canadians out of poverty. These programs exist alongside provincial and territorial programs, including those that deliver social assistance.In 2022, the Government of Canada announced the Affordability Plan?, a suite of measures totaling $12.1 billion in new support in 2022 to help make life more affordable for millions of Canadians. Measures in the Affordability Plan include enhancing the Canada Workers Benefit, a 10 per cent increase to Old Age Security (OAS), affordable Early Learning and Child Care, helping Canadians afford their rent, dental care for Canadians, doubling the Goods and Services Tax Credit for six months, benefits that are indexed to inflation, and helping Canadians while fighting climate change.  These measures build on the strong action we have been taking since 2015 to make life more affordable and build an economy that works for all Canadians.The Government of Canada reintroduced framework legislation for the Canada Disability Benefit    (Bill C-22) in the House of Commons on June 2, 2022. The goal of the proposed benefit is to reduce poverty and support the financial security of working-age persons with disabilities. The Canada Disability Benefit is a key component of Canada’s first-ever Disability Inclusion Action Plan. In addition to the Benefit, the Disability Inclusion Action Plan also includes a robust employment strategy for Canadians with disabilities, as well as ongoing work to develop a better process to determine eligibility for federal disability programs and benefits.The Government of Canada continually undertakes research and analysis on potential basic income programs and other approaches that could positively impact Canada’s economy and society, as part of its efforts to tackle poverty and to ensure that all Canadians have a real and fair opportunity to succeed. Findings from this analysis underscore that a basic income program would represent a major change in Canada's social safety net, not only in scope and scale, but also in the way it would have to engage provincial and territorial jurisdictions over social assistance. Nevertheless, if a provincial or territorial government decides to proceed with a basic income pilot, the Government of Canada would be pleased to share federal-level administrative, survey, and tax data that could support program design and evaluation. As we move towards economic recovery, the Government is continuing to explore a variety of potential shorter and longer-term policy responses that could address the ongoing needs of Canadians. 
Guaranteed annual incomePrince Edward Island
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01561441-01561 (Justice)BlakeRichardsBanff—AirdrieConservativeABJune 14, 2023September 18, 2023November 29, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs;International investigations concluded that the Chinese communist regime has been committing mass killings of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience for their organs, which are sold for profit and many to international organ tourists. Legal experts say crimes against humanity have occurred; andThere is currently Bill S-223 before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00941441-00941 (Foreign affairs)AlexisBrunelle-DuceppeLac-Saint-JeanBloc QuébécoisQCDecember 8, 2022January 30, 2023November 29, 2022Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas: Abdul Rahman Khan, Emir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from it, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcibly displaced from their ancestral lands while many more thousands were forced to convert (from Shiism to Sunnism), raped and enslaved from 1891 to 1893;In August 1998, hundreds, if not thousands, of Hazara men, women, children and elders were massacred in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;The Hazaras have continued to face targeted and systemic persecution in Afghanistan since 2001, such as the murder of newborns in the maternity ward of Dasht-e-Barchi in May 2020 or the ongoing attacks on Hazara education centres targeting young women and future generations of Hazaras, as in September 2022, April 2022 and May 2021;Canada spent $3.6 billion on aid to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban; andAfghanistan has once again fallen under Taliban control since August 2021 and the Hazaras continue to be persecuted under this new regime.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following measures:
  • i. Formally recognize the 1891–1893 ethnic cleansing of the Hazaras as a genocide; and
  • ii. Designate September 25 as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu communities in Afghanistan. The Minister of Foreign Affairs publicly denounced the tragic attack of April 19, 2022, against Hazara students in Kabul. Canada was also deeply troubled by the attack of September 30, 2022, at the Kaaj education center in Kabul. Attacks such as this are reprehensible, and serve as a grave reminder of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities, in particular the Hazara, Sikh and Hinds communities, face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and persecution of the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again.Canada has repeatedly expressed deep concern about the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances.Canada has also consistently called on the de facto Taliban authorities to respect Afghanistan’s international commitments, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.So far, in 2022, Canada has allocated over $143 million in humanitarian assistance to respond to the needs of vulnerable populations in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries. Canada is supporting a multi-sectoral humanitarian response across Afghanistan, including a particular emphasis on the provision of life-saving food and nutrition assistance. For example, with Canadian support, humanitarian partners provided food and livelihoods support to 21.7 million people in need and acute malnutrition support to 5.2 million children and pregnant and lactating women between January and September 2022.Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, Sikh and Hindu, in every sphere of the Afghan society, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan. Over the last two decades, Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups. Canada was vocal in championing a strong human rights mandate for the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) during UNAMA’s last mandate renewal, and welcomed the appointment of Richard Bennett as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Afghanistan on April 1, 2022. Canada is also exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders. Through engagement with like-minded countries, international organizations, and civil society organizations, the Government of Canada has been able to access unbiased and verified accounts of human rights abuses in Afghanistan. Such information is essential to inform the international community’s analysis, advocacy and engagement with the Taliban, and to lay the groundwork for accountability for perpetrators of human rights abuses.Canada has committed to resettling at least 40,000 vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada, one of the largest commitments in the world, through special immigration programs. This includes a humanitarian immigration program which focuses on vulnerable Afghans, including women leaders, LGBTQ people, human rights defenders, journalists, and those who have helped Canadian journalists, members of religious and ethnic minorities, and family members of former Afghan interpreters. Thanks to these efforts, Canada has already welcomed more than 27,000 Afghans, including Hazaras and Afghan Sikh and Hindu to Canada.
AfghanistanGenocideHazarasInternational development and aid
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00918441-00918 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01079441-01079 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJanuary 30, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01083441-01083 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00891441-00891 (Justice)GregMcLeanCalgary CentreConservativeABNovember 30, 2022January 30, 2023October 20, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs;International investigations concluded that the Chinese communist regime has been committing mass killings of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience for their organs, which are sold for profit and many to international organ tourists. Legal experts say crimes against humanity have occurred; andThere is currently Bill S-223 before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00828441-00828 (Transportation)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONNovember 2, 2022January 18, 2023November 1, 2022Petition to the Minister of TransportationWhereas: Howe Island in the Township of Frontenac Islands (Ontario) is serviced by Frontenac Howe Islander Ferry (the "Vessel");Howe Island has been serviced by a ferry since at least 1898 and without incident by the current Vessel since 2004;As a result of an inspection by Transport Canada, the capacity of the ferry has been reduced by one-third a decrease of 15 cars to 10 cars), resulting in longer wait times, increased vehicle idling and reduced commerce for Island residents;The Vessel is owned by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation and operated by the County of Frontenac; andThe Vessel owner will require time to make modifications to Vessel in order to meet Transport Canada requirements.We, the undersigned residents of Howe Island, in the Township of Frontenac Islands (Ontario) call upon the Minister of Transportation to work directly with the Vessel's owner to develop a reasonable plan of action and time frame for adapting the Vessel and further, in the interim, that the Vessel's capacity be re-instated.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraThe safety and security of Canadians and of the transportation system are Transport Canada’s top priority. Transport Canada develops and implements policies and regulations, and administers the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 (CSA, 2001), among other pieces of legislation. Transport Canada oversees both recreational and commercial vessel safety, including commercial passenger vessels such as the Frontenac Howe Islander (the vessel).Transport Canada was informed by the vessel operator of passenger concerns regarding the ability, in the event of an emergency, to exit a vehicle once loaded aboard the vessel. Transport Canada inspected the vessel and identified non-compliance with certain provisions of the Hull Construction Regulations, made pursuant to the CSA, 2001. The Authorized Representative of the vessel was provided a reasonable time (30 days) to rectify the deficiency. It is the responsibility of the operator to evaluate prospective viable means to comply with the regulations. The owner and operator opted to reduce vehicle lanes on the vessel to achieve compliance.Transport Canada remains committed to engage with the Authorized Representative and operator to ensure safety of the vessel and its passengers. 
FerriesHowe Island
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 5, 2023441-01324441-01324 (Health)LoriIdloutNunavutNDPNUApril 21, 2023June 5, 2023January 24, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:Over 29,000 Canadians have died due to apparent opioid toxicity between January 2016 and December 2021. Those who have died as a result of the preventable drug toxicity crisis were loved and valued citizens of this country: our children, siblings, spouses, parents, family members, clients, friends; andCanada's current drug policies have proven to be ineffective in the prevention of substance use and exacerbate substance use harms and risks. The "war on drugs" has resulted in widespread stigma towards those who use controlled substances. The "war on drugs" has allowed organized crime to be the sole provider of most controlled substances. Problematic substance use is a health issue and that cannot be resolved through criminalizing personal possession and consumption. Decriminalization of personal possession is associated with significantly reducing drug toxicity deaths in the countries that have adopted progressive drug policy reforms.Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Reform drug policy to decriminalize simple possession of drugs listed in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;2. Provide a path for expungement of conviction records for those convicted of simple possession; and3. With urgency, implement a health-based National Strategy for providing access to a regulated safer supply of drugs and expand trauma-informed treatment, recovery, and harm reduction services, and public education and awareness campaigns throughout Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary Anandasangaree1. Bill C-5, An Act to Amend the Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, received Royal Assent and came into force on November 17, 2022. The Bill aims to ensure that responses to criminal offences are fair and effective, while ensuring that public safety is maintained. The amendments to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) reinforce the Government’s commitment to address the ongoing opioid crisis by providing space to treat substance use as a health issue, rather than as a criminal one. The law now requires police and prosecutors to consider options  such as issuing a warning, or divert people to treatment programs or other supportive services instead of proceeding with charges for simple drug possession, and enacts for the first time in the CDSA a declaration of principles to guide them in exercising discretion.2. Bill C-5 further addresses the stigma associated with having a criminal record by: (1) limiting the kind of information that may be kept in the police record of warning or referrals and the use that can be made of such records, as well as to whom these records may be disclosed; and, (2) providing that past and future records of convictions for this offence be kept separate and apart from other records of convictions after a certain period of time.3. The 2018 Expungement of Historically Unjust Convictions Act provides that the Governor in Council may list an offence as eligible for expungement if the activity no longer constitutes an offence, and the criminalization of the activity was a historical injustice. Bill C-5 did not repeal the offence of simple drug possession.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.The Government continues to deliver on its promise to work toward removing the stigma associated with convictions for simple possession of drugs.Expungement is intended for cases where the criminalization of an activity constitutes a historical injustice because, among other things, were it to occur today, it would be inconsistent with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Expungement was not intended to address changing societal norms, such as the legalization of cannabis or health and social issues such as the ongoing opioid crisis.However, originally introduced in Parliament on December 7, 2021, Bill C-5, an Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), was amended in September 2022 to address concerns about the ongoing stigma associated with a record of convictions for simple possession of drugs. It now specifies that past convictions under section 4(1) of the CDSA for possession of controlled drugs must be kept separate and apart from other criminal convictions within two years of the Bill’s coming into force. For convictions after the coming into force, the record of conviction must be kept separate and apart from other criminal convictions two years following sentence completion. This amendment is consistent with the underlying objective of the Bill to address the negative consequences associated with simple possession. The amendment acknowledges the calls from public health organizations and those who work with individuals with addictions. It helps address barriers to successful reintegration into society and also helps address a contributing cause of the ongoing opioid crisis, namely the stigmatization of people who use drugs. Bill C-5 received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022.Criminal records have a lasting impact on the ability of rehabilitated individuals to successfully reintegrate into society after overcoming personal challenges in their lives. Treating simple possession of drugs as a health and social issue means eliminating the stigma associated with convictions for simple possession.Public Safety Canada continues to work with other departments, including Health Canada and the Department of Justice, to support the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, and address the national drug crisis as part of its mandate to keep cities and communities safe.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe toxic drug and overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the crisis has only become more complex due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience (PWLLE), to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis as a health issue and is working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives.The Government of Canada recognizes that substance use is a public health issue, not an issue for the criminal justice system. We are committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant actions and made commitments of more than $1 billion to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • Close to $500 million through the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) since 2017 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services; and,
  • $45 million to develop national standards for mental health and substance use services, in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations and key stakeholders, to address long-standing challenges in the delivery of mental health and substance use services and supports across the country; and,
  • $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction.
Budget 2023 proposes to provide a total of $359.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $5.7 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to support a renewed Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, which would guide the government's work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians. This includes:
  • $144 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Health Canada for the Substance Use and Addictions Program to fund community-based supports, including safer supply, supervised consumption sites, and other evidence-based health interventions;
  • $20.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada for a new community-based program to prevent substance use among young people; 
  • $73.9 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $4.6 million ongoing, to Health Canada to streamline authorizations for supervised consumption sites and drug checking services, scale-up access to safer supply, and evaluate innovative approaches;
  • $50.8 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $1.1 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to Health Canada; and $16 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada to support vital data collection on substance-related harms and lab-based analysis of the illegal drug supply;
  • $4.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Safety Canada to develop an overdose monitoring app for paramedics and other first responders; and,
  • $42 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police; $6.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Services and Procurement Canada; and $1.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, sourced from existing resources, to Global Affairs Canada to take further action to work with our partners to tackle drug trafficking and stem the global flow of these devastating substances.
Of note, under SUAP, more than $26 million has been allocated to fund Naloxone distribution, education and training. In addition, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches for greater access to pharmaceutical-grade alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of May 2023, Health Canada has supported 31 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through SUAP representing total funding commitments of over $100 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects, and a National Safer Supply Community of Practice to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.Health Canada has supported the rapid expansion of supervised consumption services across Canada. Since January 2016, the number of federally approved supervised consumption sites offering services has grown from 1 to 40. Health Canada also proactively issued exemptions that allows provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing supervised consumption sites, shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Urgent Public Health Need Sites, unlike supervised consumption sites, are temporary locations that can be set up rapidly to address the overdose crisis. Both share the goal of reducing overdose deaths.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment and safer supply programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder; as well facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and  
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
The Government recognizes that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments to ensure that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.The Government of Canada is also working closely with provinces and territories to change the way our healthcare system delivers mental health and substance use services to Canadians. It is important for Canadians to have timely access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, quality mental health and substance use services that meet their needs, including underserved and equity-deserving individuals. That is why, on February 7, 2023, the Prime Minister announced that the federal government will invest $198.6 billion over ten years to bolster the health care system, notably: top-ups to the Canada Health Transfer to address immediate health care pressures; and $25 billion over 10 years to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements.In response to substance use harms and the opioid overdose crisis, the Government of Canada is regularly consulting with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. The Government regularly engages with PWLLE and organizations that represent them, including; regular bi-lateral meetings with key organizations; participation on projects teams; facilitating PWLLE engagement in government and ministerial events and meaningful consultations in order to better understand their perspectives of substance use; and, on-the- ground realities (e.g., roundtables, Knowledge Exchange Series, etc.).Health Canada established the PWLLE Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners.The Government of Canada continues collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, stakeholders and partners such as community-based organizations to reduce the harms associated with substance use and providing people with the culturally appropriate and trauma-informed support they need.Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of personal drug possession can, increase risks of overdose and other harms, increase barriers to care and perpetuate stigma. Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments encourage police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the CDSA to reflect the Government’s public-health-focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada directing prosecutors that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for the personal possession of drugs, except where public safety concerns arise.In May 2022, at the request of the Province of British Columbia, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health granted a time-limited exemption under the CDSA so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, where appropriate, individuals may be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they could also receive assistance to connect with those services. British Columbia requested this exemption, and it is an additional way that the federal government is supporting the province’s comprehensive approach to the overdose crisis. This time-limited exemption will be supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes. The results will help inform Canada’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance use harms. We have also received a request from Toronto Public Health, and we are working in close partnership to ensure both public health and public safety considerations are included. We will continue to work with willing jurisdictions to use all the tools at our disposal, including approaches related to decriminalization, to respond to this crisis.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abusePublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 31, 2023441-01151441-01151 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABFebruary 15, 2023March 31, 2023February 6, 2023Petition to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipWhereas:
  • The application backlog since 2015 has grown to over 2.2 million applications;
  • Work permit applications submitted under International Experience Canada have a service standard of 56 days, but only 24% met this standard;
  • Skilled Trades Programs applications via Express Entry have an 80% goal of reaching the service standard of 180 days, but only 8% met this standard;
  • New visitor visa applications have an 80% goal of reaching the service standard of 14 days, but only 27% met this standard;
  • New parent and grandparent Super Visa applications have an 80% goal of meeting the service standard of 112 days, but only 41% met this standard;
  • Certificate of identity applications have a 90% goal of meeting the service standard of 20 days, but only 15% met this standard;
  • Refugee travel document applications have a 90% goal of meeting the standard of 20 days, but only 15% met this standard; and
  • An updated immigration system, where reuniting families, allowing Canadian charities to have a more responsible role in bringing persecuted refugees to Canada, and addressing the nation's workforce needs through employer driven processes, is needed.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to update the immigration system to pave the way for efficient and streamlined processes that address Canada's ongoing needs.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.With unprecedented interest in Canada from people looking for a new place to work, study and build their lives with their families, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to receive high volume of applications across all our programs. We’ve had a record-breaking year in 2022, rendering more than 5.2 million final decisions for permanent residence, temporary residence and citizenship applications and nearly doubling the number of final decisions produced in 2021 (2.7 million).Nevertheless, the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and successive international humanitarian crises have led to increased processing times for many applicants, including long waits for application updates. We understand how difficult and frustrating this can be for our clients, sponsors, and representatives, and we are committed to improving the client experience.Over the past year, the Department has taken steady action to reduce application backlogs and help build a more modern, client-focused immigration system. We hired more than 1,250 employees1, introduced 100% online intake for key permanent residence lines of business2, digitized applications, and harnessed automation technologies to increase processing efficiency while protecting the safety and security of Canadians. In support of client service, the Department recently rolled-out client application status trackers for Express Entry applicants, in addition to those already in place for Family Class and Citizenship. This online service allows clients to securely view the status of their application. We have also made improvements to our client support centre, including hiring additional staff, and automating the triage of email correspondence.In 2023 and beyond, we will continue to implement various initiatives supporting our nation’s commitments to: reunite families, allow refugees and their families to find safe and permanent resettlement pathways, and address the needs of the rapidly changing Canadian labour market. Some planned initiatives include:
  • A policy review of Canada’s immigration system to better respond to the needs of a 21st century, as announced in Budget 2022.
  • A commitment of $50 million in funding for 2022–2023, a portion of which will be dedicated to address ongoing application backlogs, speed up processing and allow skilled newcomers to fill critical labour gaps faster.
  • Examination of broader regularization pathways for undocumented migrants and their families. Pathways to permanent residence will offer more opportunities for individuals to enter or stay in the job market and fill labour shortages. 
  • Reforms to Express Entry system which allow the Minister more flexibility to invite Express Entry candidates that meet Canada’s labour market needs.
  • Digital Platform Modernization to replace the Department’s aging IT platform, while redesigning business processes and advancing policy simplification, enabling us to improve the client experience and respond quickly to changing conditions and new priorities.
  • A commitment of  $6.2 million over three years (2022-2023 to 2024-2025) to Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) NGO partners that will increase their capacity to help refugees, and people in refugee-like situations, access economic immigration programs (e.g. client identification and referral).
As this work progresses, the Department will continue to engage key program stakeholders and update Canadians on its backlog and processing time reduction efforts, publishing monthly data on our website.1 Hired between spring and fall 2022 to help reduce inventories, with additional hires planned for 2023.2 Alternative formats remain available for all who request that option.   
Government servicesImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02058441-02058 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 1, 2024March 18, 2024February 8, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Irresponsible practices by industry and multi-national corporations have led to the destruction and denigration of much of Canada's waterways and watersheds;
  • Current laws do not sufficiently protect Canada's waterways and watersheds from such irresponsible practices; and
  • Protecting waterways and watersheds also protects Canada's forests, fisheries, land, and air.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Update Canada's water laws to ensure that no industry or corporation takes precedence over the health of Canada's waterways and watersheds, and by extension the health of the country's people, species, and land; and
  • Ensure Canada's water laws are updated under the guidance of professionals and specialists in the field of water conservation.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTA clean and safe freshwater supply is essential to the well-being of Canadians, the health and sustainability of the environment, and the economy. Hence, the Government of Canada has committed to:
  • establishing a federal Canada Water Agency to work with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to find the best ways to keep Canada’s water safe, clean, and well-managed;
  • implementing a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to support monitoring, assessment, and restoration work in the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, St. Lawrence River, Fraser River, Saint John River, Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe;
  • investing in the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research; and
  • following the establishment of a Canada Water Agency, advancing the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality including climate change and Indigenous rights.
To advance these commitments, Budget 2023 allocated:
  • $650 million over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to support monitoring, assessment, and restoration work in the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, St. Lawrence River, Fraser River, Saint John River, Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe.
  • Opportunities are currently open for eligible applicants to apply for funding under five Freshwater Ecosystem Initiatives, including Great Lakes, Lake of the Woods, and Lake Winnipeg Basin (this call for applications closes on February 15, 2024) and Lake Simcoe and the Wolastoq/Saint John River (this call for applications closes on March 22, 2024).
  • The EcoAction Community Funding Program, which supports freshwater projects across Canada, is also now accepting applications until March 22, 2024.
  • Budget 2023 also allocated:
    • $22.6 million over three years, starting in 2023-24, to support better coordination of efforts to protect freshwater across Canada.
    • $85.1 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $0.4 million in remaining amortization and $21 million ongoing thereafter to support the creation of the Canada Water Agency, which will be headquartered in Winnipeg.
Budget 2022 provided:
  • $25.0 million over five years, starting in 2022-2023, for the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research.
On June 12, 2023, the government created the Canada Water Agency as a branch within Environment and Climate Change Canada. The Agency is the federal focal point for fresh water working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples, provinces, territories, and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration on fresh water.On November 30, 2023, the government introduced legislation that will fully establish the Canada Water Agency as a standalone entity. To learn more about the Canada Water Agency, please consult the Agency website at https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/water-overview/canada-water-agency.html.Another way that the Government of Canada protects and conserves Canada’s water resources is by administering laws that control pollution such as the Fisheries Act.Environment and Climate Change Canada is the lead department responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Fisheries Act pollution prevention provisions (except for their application to aquaculture and the control and eradication of aquatic invasive species and aquatic pests, which are under the responsibility of the Department of Fisheries and Ocean). Subsection 36(3) prohibits the deposit of any deleterious substances in water frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Deleterious substances include any substance that, if added to water, would degrade, alter or form part of a process of degradation or alteration of the quality of water so that it is rendered deleterious to fish or fish habitat or to the use of fish by humans. Any regulations developed under section 36 set strict requirements on deposits to water. These regulations can impose conditions such as limits on the maximum quantities of deleterious substances released into water, and can include environmental effects monitoring and other reporting requirements for facilities. Modern Fisheries Act regulations include the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations, the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations, and the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations.Environment and Climate Change Canada is developing proposed regulations to address deposits to water from coal mining and is investigating risk management approaches for tailings ponds from oil sands operations.To learn more about these proposed regulations, as well as upcoming improvements to existing regulations, please consult the Fisheries Act Forward Regulatory Plan 2023-2025 available at: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/corporate/transparency/acts-regulations/forward-regulatory-plan/2023-2025/fisheries-act.html.Environment and Climate Change Canada enforces the subsection 36(3) prohibition, as well as regulations under the Fisheries Act according to the Compliance and Enforcement Policy for Habitat Protection and Pollution Prevention Provisions of the Fisheries Act: www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-enforcement/publications/compliance-enforcement-policy-fisheries-act.html 
Environmental protectionInland watersWatersheds
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2023441-01306441-01306 (Democratic process)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCApril 19, 2023June 2, 2023February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • An Angus Reid poll conducted in September found that: 85% of respondents supported a Citizens' Assembly to deliberate on electoral reform; 79% greed that a National Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform be formed after the 2019 federal election regardless of which party formed government; 90% agreed that parties should cooperate; and 80% agreed that parliament should reflect how people voted;
  • The distorted results from the recent federal election clearly illustrate the need for electoral reform;
  • An Angus Reid poll in November found consensus support for proportional representation from a majority of voters in every province, all age groups and all major political parties;
  • Citizens' Assemblies have been used successfully in Canada, Australia, Belgium, France, Ireland, Scotland and the U.K. to tackle difficult issues; and
  • A National Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform would: give citizens a leadership role in determining electoral reform for Canada; provide meaningful deliberation on electoral reform by a representative group of citizens free from partisan influence and interests; build consensus for any recommended changes to our electoral system; and need to be established as soon as possible to allow time for their recommendations to be adopted before the next federal election.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Establish a National Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform;
  • Require the Citizens' Assembly to complete its work within 12 months; and
  • Adopt any recommended changes to our electoral system before the next federal election.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is committed to strengthening Canada’s democratic institutions. Our electoral system (i.e., the fundamental rules determining how votes are translated into seats in the House of Commons) is one of the most foundational pieces of our democracy. Among many things it provides Canadians with a direct connection to their Members of Parliament (MP), who must work with each other in developing national policy and making political decisions, while engaging and remaining accountable to their constituents in an increasingly digital and connected Canada.The first-past-the-post system is not perfect – no system is – but it has served Canada well for over 150 years and continues to advance the democratic values that Canadians want reflected in their system of government. This includes strong local representation, stability, and accountability. How Canadians vote and how we govern ourselves is fundamentally important and impacts us all. Given this, the Government’s view has been very clear – any major reforms to the electoral system should not be made without the broad support of Canadians.However, there are a number of ways in which the Government continues to seek to improve Canada’s federal electoral process. Notably, in 2018, the Government introduced the Elections Modernization Act, which represented a significant reform of the Canada Elections Act, which modernized the electoral process, making it easier for Canadians to participate in elections and further bolstering Canadians’ trust and confidence in Canada’s world class electoral system.In a healthy democracy, there is always more work to do, but Canadians have many reasons to be proud of their electoral system. The Government of Canada will continue to work to strengthen and protect our democratic practices and institutions to ensure they uphold Canadian values.
Electoral reformNational Citizens' Assembly on Electoral ReformPublic consultation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 24, 2023441-01181441-01181 (Media and telecommunications)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBMarch 9, 2023April 24, 2023February 20, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:
  • Access to reliable, high-speed internet service is essential;
  • Many Canadians purchase costly Internet services, only to realize that the quality and speed they expected to receive - is not what they actually receive;
  • Advertised theoretical speeds and performance metrics for internet services, don't always reflect the actual internet quality delivered to consumers;
  • Data released by the Canadian Internet Registration Authority, found that only one-third of Canadians believe their household receives the 'up to' speed included in their home internet package 'all or most of the time'; and
  • Canadians deserve access to accurate and transparent broadband information.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:
  • Pass bill C-288, An Act to amend the Telecommunications Act (transparent and accurate broadband services information).
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HON. FRANÇOIS-PHILIPPE CHAMPAGNEThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views on the importance of high-speed Internet connectivity. Now more than ever, Canadians are relying on telecommunications services for work, school, finances, health care and staying connected with friends and family.As telecommunications services have become more essential, consumers are demanding accurate, transparent and standardized information about the quality of the telecommunications services they purchase.  The Government of Canada supports a competitive marketplace where consumers are treated fairly and supports efforts to provide Canadians with transparent and accurate information about their telecommunications services. That is why the Government of Canada has launched several initiatives that support this objective and provide important information about broadband performance to Canadians.For example, in 2016, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) launched a voluntary program called Measuring Broadband Canada to conduct broadband performance testing. The testing was carried out by SamKnows, a global leader in broadband performance measurement that has provided similar testing studies for countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States.  The approach in Canada was that SamKnows deployed testing equipment to a sample of households across the country. The equipment tested various aspects of the household’s connectivity including download and upload speeds, the impact of peak times, latency, packet loss and webpage loading times for the Internet service plans with the highest subscription rates, therefore representing a majority of Canadian fixed-line broadband users.  In 2019, the CRTC undertook a second phase of SamKnows broadband performance measurement using the same approach. The CRTC published the test results for both studies, which concluded that the major participating service providers were delivering average download speeds that met or exceeded the maximum advertised speeds.However, there is a strong rationale for additional testing, as the first two phases of the SamKnows studies focused on the larger providers in Canada and on the common wireline technologies, like fibre to the home, which are found mostly in urban areas.  While these tests provided important information on the experience of the majority of broadband subscribers, they did not include fixed wireless technology that is commonly used for home Internet in rural and remote areas. Fixed wireless and satellite technologies are a promising and important part of the Government of Canada’s plans of connecting 100% of Canadians to high-speed internet. That is why, with support from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), the CRTC recently launched Phase 3 of Measuring Broadband Canada. This phase will specifically assess the performance of Internet service plans using fixed wireless access technology that advertise as providing ‘up to’ 50/10 Megabits per second download and upload speeds.  The CRTC is currently seeking volunteers to participate in testing and ISED will closely monitor this important project.Meanwhile, the Government of Canada has taken action to require the regular testing of broadband performance as part of a broader proposal to increase competition and consumer rights in the telecommunications market. On February 13, 2023, the government issued a new policy direction to the CRTC on a renewed approach to telecommunications policy. The policy direction is legally binding and requires the CRTC to regulate in a manner consistent with the government’s priorities in telecommunications. The policy direction instructs the CRTC to, among other things, regularly collect, report publicly and make broadband performance information available to consumers. Further, it requires that service providers regularly participate in testing the performance of the broadband Internet services they offer. The policy direction also explicitly instructs the CRTC to include broadband Internet services based on commonly used technologies in rural areas in these tests. The policy direction also has other related requirements. For example, it requires that the CRTC develop and implement a standardized and robust approach for reporting mobile wireless coverage, and it requires the CRTC to take measures to promote clarity and transparency of pricing information and service plan characteristics in service providers’ marketing materials so that consumers can better understand their choices in the Internet market.Further, currently Canadians who are not receiving the internet performance that they are paying for can contact the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-Television Services (CCTS) for assistance in resolving the issue. The CCTS is an independent organization that provides consumers with recourse and neutral dispute resolution services when they are unable to resolve disagreements directly with their telecommunications service provider. Complaints about quality of service are already part of the mandate of the CCTS. The Policy Direction also contains measures to strengthen the CCTS by increasing its operational capacity, improving compliance with its rules, and increasing public awareness of its complaint-resolution process to ensure that Canadians know where to turn if they are being treated unfairly by a provider.The Government of Canada supports Bill C-288 as it reinforces the actions underway to improve broadband performance transparency for Canadians. The proposed amendments to the Telecommunications Act would require carriers, or the service providers that own and operate telecommunications networks, to make publicly available service quality metrics regarding the internet services they provide. Additionally, the bill requires the CRTC to hold public hearings to determine other requirements and implementation details based on consultations.The Government of Canada is committed to protecting consumer rights and ensuring they have the information they need to make informed decisions about their purchases of telecommunications services.
Access to informationBroadband Internet servicesC-288, An Act to amend the Telecommunications Act (transparent and accurate broadband services information)Internet service providers
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 5, 2023441-01318441-01318 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABApril 20, 2023June 5, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of April 28, 2023, we have welcomed 30,455 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic minority communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021 and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.We are working with our partners, both internationally and within the Government of Canada, to find comprehensive solutions, as we know many persecuted minorities remain in Afghanistan. There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2023441-01206441-01206 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABMarch 28, 2023May 11, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of March 24, 2023, we have welcomed 29,325 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021 and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.We are working with our partners, both internationally and within the Government of Canada, to find comprehensive solutions, as we know many persecuted minorities remain in Afghanistan. There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2023441-01304441-01304 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABApril 19, 2023June 2, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of April 20, 2023, we have welcomed 30,455 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic minority communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021, and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.We are working with our partners, both internationally and within the Government of Canada, to find comprehensive solutions, as we know many persecuted minorities remain in Afghanistan. There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca.
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01362441-01362 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023March 14, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 6, 2023441-01326441-01326 (Citizenship and immigration)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABApril 24, 2023June 6, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of May 5th, 2023, we have welcomed 30,680 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic minority communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021 and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca.More information about potential other pathways for Afghan nationals to explore can be found on the Departmental website at Immigrate to Canada - Canada.ca
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 16, 2023441-01413441-01413 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABMay 3, 2023June 16, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of May 26, 2023, we have welcomed 31,910 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic minority communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021, and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca.More information about potential other pathways for Afghan nationals to explore can be found on the Departmental website at Immigrate to Canada - Canada.ca
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01374441-01374 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023April 11, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01480441-01480 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBMay 30, 2023September 18, 2023May 12, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. Our Government recently announced an additional $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) that will help municipalities and Indigenous communities prevent gun and gang violence by tackling root causes of crime. We had previously announced $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $500 Million. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada recently met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, P.C, K.C., M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.The MCC was established by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, as an independent public inquiry tasked to examine the tragedy that took place in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19, 2020. On May 31, 2023, the federal Minister of Public Safety, and Nova Scotia Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the appointment of Linda Lee Oland as Founding Chair of the Progress Monitoring Committee. In addition to this appointment, the Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the recommendations of the MCC final report, recognizing that the findings and recommendations are applicable to all Canadian jurisdictions.Furthermore, in the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01563441-01563 (Culture and heritage)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCJune 16, 2023August 16, 2023May 30, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS
  • In April 2022, the Government of Canada announced it would be contributing $454,112 and the Province of British Columbia would be providing $9,545,888 towards a new regional aquatic centre in the District of Kent;
  • In the months since this announcement, inflation and supply chain challenges have increased the cost of construction by approximately 30 per cent and the District is in need of additional funding;
  • The Government of Canada has been open to funding flexibility when it comes to projects in rural communities and in support of reconciliation;
  • Indigenous families living on-reserve in the areas surrounding Kent District utilize many services in the community and would be well served by this aquatic centre; and
  • The District of Kent received written support for the project from surrounding communities, including the Seabird Island, Cheam, Stó:lo, Sts'ailes, Sq'éwlets, Skawahlook, Popkum and Peters First Nations, the Village of Harrison Hot Springs and the Fraser Valley Regional District Electoral Areas 'C' and 'D'.
THEREFOREWe, the undersigned residents of the District of Kent, Harrison Hot Springs, the Seabird Island, Cheam, Stó:lo, Sts'ailes, Sq'éwlets, Skawahlook, Popkum and Peters First Nations and the Fraser Valley Regional District Electoral Areas 'C' and 'D', call upon the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities to provide additional funding to support the construction of the Lets'emot Regional Aquatic Centre.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is committed to renewing the relationship between Canada and Indigenous peoples based on the recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership, as well as implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. This includes making significant infrastructure investments in Indigenous communities that improve socio economic conditions and community well being.Since 2016, the Government of Canada has made significant infrastructure investments in British Columbia, with more than $5.5 billion in Federal funding provided for projects in the province, which includes just under $2.86 billion under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. Over $240 million has been allocated to community, culture, sport and recreation projects through Infrastructure Canada’s various programs.On March 2, 2022, Infrastructure Canada approved $454,112 in funding for the District of Kent Aquatic Centre. The project was prioritized through the final provincial intake under the Community, Culture, and Recreation stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, which is managed by British Columbia’s Ministry of Municipal Affairs. This final intake allocated all remaining funding under the Community, Culture and Recreation stream in British Columbia. The combined federal and provincial funding totals $10 million, representing a 73% cost share on the District of Kent Aquatic Centre project.With respect to infrastructure projects experiencing cost overruns, it is important to note that Infrastructure Canada provides a contribution toward the total estimated eligible cost of a project, and that contribution is capped at a maximum amount at the time of approval. Infrastructure Canada is not in a position to increase federal funding to cover cost overruns.As of March 31, 2023, no further projects can be submitted by British Columbia under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, and the program allocation available for projects in the province has been fully committed.Nevertheless, following the March 31, 2023 project submission deadline for provinces, new time-limited authorities may be available to redistribute funding that remains unused in projects as a result of cancellations, cost savings or descoping. For example, provinces may request the decommitment of unused funding for its reallocation to other projects to accommodate scope increases and, in exceptional cases, revised cost estimates. These authorities are time-limited. All requests for decommitments and reallocations should be submitted by the Province of British Columbia through established program communication channels. Any such requests would be reviewed by Infrastructure Canada and approved at Canada’s discretion.These authorities acknowledge the ongoing volatility in the construction sector, and are intended to ensure the ongoing availability and maximal use of federal funding for provinces and municipalities.Additional federal funding may be available for the project under the Canada Community Building Fund, which is managed by the Union of British Columbia Municipalities. Please note that the maximum funding from all federal sources for municipal projects approved under the Community, Culture and Recreation stream of the Investing in Canada Instructure Program cannot exceed forty percent of total eligible costs. For questions related to the current availability of funds in British Columbia under the Canada Community Building Fund, it is recommended that you contact the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.As some of Infrastructure Canada’s largest infrastructure funding programs have reached full allocation, the department is taking stock of existing programs and gaining an understanding of needs, which will help to inform the development of the next suite of federally-led infrastructure programming. Infrastructure Canada recognizes that infrastructure programs will need to be efficient and flexible, and attuned to regional and local priorities, while delivering the economic, social, and environmental outcomes that Canadians expect.
AgassizSport and recreation facilities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01829441-01829 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 25, 2023December 11, 2023May 30, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • There are no laws that require makers, distributers or advertisers of commercial pornographic material to ascertain and document the consent and age of those depicted in the material;
  • Recommendation #2 from the 2021 Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Report on MindGeek states: "That the Government of Canada mandate that contenthosting platforms operating in Canada require affirmation from all persons depicted in pornographic content, before it can be uploaded, that they are 18 years old or older and that they consent to its distribution";
  • Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act adds two offences to the Criminal Code: to create pornographic material for a commercial purpose without verifying the age and consent of the individuals shown, and to distribute pornographic material without verifying the age and consent of those depicted and also removing material if in writing, consent has been withdrawn; and
  • Organizations including Defend Dignity, the National Council of Women of Canada, London Abused Women's Shelter, Montreal Council of Women, Parents Aware and the National Centre on Child Exploitation have all expressed support for Bill C-270.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to swiftly adopt Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThere is no room in Canada for sexual exploitation. Our Government is committed to ensuring that all individuals are safe from sexual exploitation, including online. It is for this exact reason that the Minister of Canadian Heritage’s December 2021 mandate letter commits to introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content, taking into consideration the feedback received from the Canadian public in 2021.In 2022, we took it a step further, which included an expert advisory group, a Citizens’ Assembly, Indigenous engagement, which involved a sharing circle and one-on-one interviews, and 20 Ministerial roundtables across Canada. Our Government is committed to putting in place a regulatory framework to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful content online. Online services have a role to play to make the Internet a safer place for all users in Canada.Furthermore, the Criminal Code includes a strong and comprehensive approach that protects against sexual exploitation, including offences that prohibit non-consensual distribution of intimate images (section 162.1), as well as child-specific sexual offences, including child pornography (section 163.1), making sexually explicit material available to a child (section 171.1) and luring a child (section 172.1). Canada’s laws addressing child sexual offending also apply extra-territorially, which means that prosecutions can happen in Canada for crimes allegedly committed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents abroad.An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide Internet service came into force on December 8, 2011. This Act requires a Canadian provider of Internet services to report to police when they have reasonable grounds to believe that their Internet service is being or has been used to commit a child pornography offence, such as making child pornography available, or distributing child pornography. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) is responsible under the Act for another measure to protect the Canadian public. It receives, and processes, reports of child pornography and child abuse on the Internet from Canadian providers of Internet services. C3P is a registered charitable organization that operates Cybertip.ca, which receives and processes tips from the public about potentially illegal material online related to child sexual exploitation and then refers any potentially actionable reports to the appropriate authorities. C3P also provides public education and awareness materials, as well as support and referral services for those who need it. In addition, C3P operates Project Arachnid, an automated web crawler, which scans the internet and automatically detects and processes tens of thousands of images per second and sends take down notices to online service providers to remove child sexual abuse material globally. When service providers, subject to the Act, are advised of a location on the Internet where child pornography may be made available to the public, the providers are required under this Act to report to C3P. All of these efforts together make C3P an effective organization that provides tools to protect children and combat child sexual exploitation.
C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material)ConsentLegal agePornography
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01614441-01614 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023May 30, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The U.S. Department of State's 20th Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report indicates that Canada "meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking";
  • The TIP Report notes that Canadian governments "did not provide comprehensive data” on investigations, prosecutions, convictions, or victims' services;
  • The range, quality, and timely delivery of trafficking-specific services varies across Canada, including persistent funding shortages;
  • Coordination between the federal and provincial governments on anti-trafficking measures is poor; and
  • The TIP Report urges Canadian governments to increase the use of proactive law enforcement techniques, increase training for prosecutors and judges, and increase partnerships with the private sector to prevent human trafficking.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: Strengthen the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act to address Canada's shortcomings as mentioned in the TIP Report so that Canada exceeds the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; and Cooperate and coordinate more closely with the provinces, the private sector, and other stakeholders to combat human trafficking in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.The Government of Canada takes the issue of human trafficking seriously and is committed to the protection of children, women, girls, and other vulnerable members of society from all forms of exploitation and abuse, including sexual exploitation and labour trafficking in Canada and abroad.The protection of victims of human trafficking is a shared responsibility among all levels of government. Provinces and territories provide services such as health and social services, emergency housing, and legal aid to victims and survivors and in some cases have established their own local strategies and action plans to address human trafficking in their jurisdictions. Similarly, civil society and other non-governmental actors play a critical role in Canada’s response to this crime. The Government of Canada recognizes that human trafficking is a multifaceted issue which requires cooperation with the provinces and territories, the private sector and civil society actors.In 2019, the Government of Canada launched the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking (National Strategy), which brings together federal efforts under one strategic framework, and is supported by an investment of $57.22 million over five years and $10.28 million ongoing. The National Strategy includes measures aligned with the internationally recognized pillars of prevention, protection, prosecution and partnerships. Expanding on these pillars, the National Strategy includes empowerment as a fifth pillar to enhance supports and services to victims of human trafficking. As a whole-of-government approach, the National Strategy sets out a comprehensive way forward to address human trafficking and brings together all federal efforts that aim to address human trafficking under one strategic plan to ensure a collaborative and coordinated national response.Under the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, the Federal Government has developed an enhanced governance structure to enable a more coordinated response to human trafficking. The Human Trafficking Taskforce (HTT), comprised of all relevant federal departments, was established to ensure effective coordination, implementation and management of existing and enhanced efforts to address human trafficking in Canada and abroad. Further, the HTT serves to support the alignment of anti-human trafficking initiatives with other federal government priorities (i.e. Gender-Based Violence and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls). Public Safety Canada has also established robust mechanisms to bolster existing governance through the federal HTT, these include an Assistant Deputy Ministers meeting, and a Director-General Steering Committee on Human Trafficking which provide oversight of the horizontal initiative.Collaboration and information sharing with federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments through the Public Safety Canada-led FPT Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Working Group remains central to the Government’s efforts. The Government of Canada also hosts a Justice Canada led-FPT Coordinating Committee of Senior Officials on Human Trafficking. These meetings facilitate information sharing and collaboration, and the sharing of best practices and lessons learned to inform policy and program development.Furthermore, under the National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to hosting stakeholder engagements to ensure ongoing outreach and information sharing and to address emerging trends. The purpose of these engagements is to bring together experts, civils society organizations, service providers and other external stakeholders to enhance knowledge and information sharing; better understand stakeholder concerns and priority issues; and, inform forward looking policy and program development. These meetings also provide Public Safety Canada and federal partners with an opportunity to strengthen key relationships and establish new ones as well as identify opportunities for new partnerships.In addition, Public Safety Canada launched a Human Trafficking public awareness campaign targeting Canadian youth (16-19) and young adults (20-25), including Indigenous peoples, as well as parents/ caregivers of youth. The goal of this campaign is to increase awareness of human trafficking, address public misconceptions of the crime, and raise awareness of warning signs and ways to report suspected incidences. The Government of Canada is committed to combating human trafficking and will continue to work diligently to better understand gaps in Canada’s collective response to this crime to build stronger and safer communities across Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe 2022 Annual Report on Trafficking in Persons, prepared by the US Government, recognizes that Canada, as a Tier 1 country, fully meets the standards outlined in the report to combat trafficking in persons and that Canada continues to demonstrate sustained and serious efforts. Combating trafficking in persons in Canada requires concerted action by all levels of government and a broad range of stakeholders.The Government of Canada continues to demonstrate national leadership and is committed to ensuring a whole-of-government approach and comprehensive way forward to address human trafficking. The Criminal Code provides a robust framework for human trafficking with six specific human trafficking offences, including trafficking in adults, child trafficking, materially benefitting from human trafficking and withholding or destroying identity documents to facilitate this crime, with maximum penalties of up to life imprisonment. Additionally, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act includes a human trafficking-specific offence, which applies where victims are brought into Canada. This offence has a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Justice Canada provides training to law enforcement through the Human Trafficking Investigators Course, offered regularly through the Canadian Police College.The federal government works closely with provinces and territories to support victims of crime, including victims of human trafficking. Specifically, the Justice Canada Victims Fund makes grants and contributions funding available to provincial and territorial governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other eligible recipients for the creation and enhancement of services for victims of crime and to enhance the knowledge and capacity of those who work with victims of crime so that these professionals and volunteers can better meet victims’ needs.In support of the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking led by Public Safety Canada, Justice Canada makes $1 million per year available through the Victims Fund to NGOs to develop or enhance services for victims of human trafficking. In particular, Justice Canada is providing funding to nine projects in fiscal year 2022-2023 through the Victims Fund. These projects include the establishment or enhancement of services for victims of human trafficking, as well as the development and delivery of training for law enforcement officers and frontline service providers. A total of $1,164,157 in funding was committed in fiscal year 2022-2023 to support victims of human trafficking.
Human traffickingProtection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 15, 2024441-02180441-02180 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCFebruary 15, 2024May 30, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The U.S. Department of State's 20th Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report indicates that Canada "meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking";
  • The TIP Report notes that Canadian governments "did not provide comprehensive data” on investigations, prosecutions, convictions, or victims' services;
  • The range, quality, and timely delivery of trafficking-specific services varies across Canada, including persistent funding shortages;
  • Coordination between the federal and provincial governments on anti-trafficking measures is poor; and
  • The TIP Report urges Canadian governments to increase the use of proactive law enforcement techniques, increase training for prosecutors and judges, and increase partnerships with the private sector to prevent human trafficking.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: Strengthen the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act to address Canada's shortcomings as mentioned in the TIP Report so that Canada exceeds the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; and Cooperate and coordinate more closely with the provinces, the private sector, and other stakeholders to combat human trafficking in Canada.
Human traffickingProtection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01551441-01551 (Transportation)SoniaSidhuBrampton SouthLiberalONJune 14, 2023August 16, 2023June 6, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • There is a rising demand from residents in Brampton to have a direct flight from Toronto to India;
  • Brampton has a significant Indo-Canadian population;
  • No airline currently provides direct flight service between Toronto, Ontario and Amritsar, Punjab; and
  • By establishing a route between Toronto and Amritsar, Punjab, the overall distance traveled will be reduced, leading to shorter travel time and better travel experience for passengers in addition to fuel savings and a significant reduction in carbon emission.
As Canadian residents, we, the undersigned, urge the Government of Canada to consider and support the establishment of direct international flights from Toronto to destinations in India, particularly to Amritsar, Punjab and New Delhi, and to collaborate with airlines and stakeholders to make these flights a reality.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Annie KoutrakisThe Government of Canada takes note of the campaign advocating for direct flights between Canada and Amritsar, Punjab, and New Delhi, India, and is aware of the importance of this issue for many Canadians, especially those with ties to Punjab.At the outset, it should be noted that Air Canada and Air India operate non-stop flights between Toronto and New Delhi. Furthermore, other Canadian and/or Indian airlines are free to introduce direct service on this route should they wish to do so.The Government of Canada is responsible for negotiating bilateral air transport agreements with foreign governments. These agreements govern the operation of scheduled air services and provide the legal framework within which airlines make decisions based on their own commercial priorities, actual market demand, and the operational viability of routes. This is an important point as the locations that Canadian airlines decide to serve are business decisions.The Government of Canada expanded its air transport agreement with India in 2022, and was able to remove limits on capacity (i.e., the number of flights that can be operated). Currently, Canadian air carriers can operate own-aircraft services to Bangalore (Bengaluru), Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai, while Indian air carriers can operate own-aircraft services to Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, Vancouver, and two additional points to be selected by India. While agreement was not reached on access to additional cities during the negotiations in 2022, officials from both countries remain in contact to discuss further expansion of the air transport agreement.In the meantime, when operating code-share services, which is a type of marketing arrangement, Amritsar is available to Canadian carriers. Additionally, the agreement does not preclude Indian airlines from operating direct services to/from anywhere in India, including Amritsar, to Canada.Bilateral agreements cannot be unilaterally amended, and thus far an agreement has not been reached with India with respect to access to additional cities. However, Canadian Ministers have pressed Canada’s air transport interests during meetings with their Indian counterparts. The Minister of Transport has pursued the addition of cities in Punjab in the air transport agreement on multiple occasions, including with India’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya Scindia, in May of 2022, where he sought an expanded air transport agreement that also includes direct access to Amritsar for Canadian airlines.Over the past year, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has met with her counterpart, India’s External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, on a number of occasions, which is a reflection of the countries’ strong and growing economic, cultural and people-to-people ties. The Ministers have continually taken these opportunities to reaffirm their commitment to deepening cooperation in these and all facets of the bilateral relationship.Most recently, these Ministers met on March 3, 2023, and discussed, among other things, Canada’s interests in obtaining market access for direct air services to a greater number of cities in India (including in Punjab).Subsequently, on March 24, 2023, Canada’s High Commissioner to India wrote to Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, reiterating Canada’s interest in exchanging the right for Canada’s respective airlines to operate services to any point or points in the other country’s territory. The Government of Canada has not yet received a reply. ChandigarhThe Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development has also recently spoken with her counterpart, the Indian Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, on May 8, 2023 regarding this issue. The Minister of Transport also met with Minister Goyal the same day to further press Canada’s interest in access to Punjab.The Minister of Transport has also asked Canada’s Chief Air Negotiator to continue to engage with her Indian counterpart to request a further expansion of the air transport agreement to include direct access to additional points, including to Amritsar and Chandigarh. 
Air transportationIndiaToronto
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01673441-01673 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023June 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 8, 2023441-01657441-01657 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBSeptember 25, 2023November 8, 2023June 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledOctober 19, 2023441-01600441-01600 (Foreign affairs)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABSeptember 18, 2023October 19, 2023June 6, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas:
  • Various media outlets reported that the Communist Party of China (CCP) took efforts to interfere in Canada's federal elections;
  • Classified reports from the CSIS claim that a former CCP consular official in Canada celebrated and took credit for the defeat of two parliamentarians;
  • The Prime Minister's National Security Adviser, Jody Thomas, informed MPs that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was routinely briefed about election interference attempts by Beijing;
  • The Trudeau Foundation board of directors and CEO have resigned after a $200,000 donation from a businessman linked to the CCP was made to the organization;
  • The parliamentary committee investigating foreign interference voted to establish a public inquiry into foreign interference;
  • The Liberal government continues to block the creation of a public inquiry and denying its immediate necessity;
  • The Special Rapporteur appointed by the Prime Minister is in a hopeless conflict of interest having served as a member of the Trudeau Foundation, and is a personal friend of the Prime Minister;
  • The CCP engages in relationships with Canada as a strategic adversary such as hostage diplomacy with the unjust jailing of Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig;
  • The CCP has used this adversarial stance to conduct economic warfare on Canadian exports like agricultural products of grain and oil seeds that puts Canadian producers at risk; and
  • Canadians deserve democratic institutions they can trust that serve Canadians, and without interference from foreign agents.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:conduct a full open, independent, public inquiry into Beijing's election interference to give Canadians the transparency they need in order to restore the trust in Canada's civic and parliamentary institutions.
Response by the Prime Minister of CanadaSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is committed to protecting and continuously strengthening Canada’s democracy, including its institutions and processes, in the face of evolving threats. This is why, in the summer of 2023, the Prime Minister asked the then Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities to work to determine a way forward to shine light into the matter of foreign interference in Canada’s elections, and to determine who may be best suited to lead this public work.Following extensive consultations with all recognized parties in the House of Commons, the now Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs on September 7, 2023, announced that a public inquiry into foreign interference in Canada’s federal electoral processes and democratic institutions would be established under the Inquiries Act. All parties have agreed to the Terms of Reference and the appointment of the Commissioner.The Honourable Marie-Josée Hogue, puisne judge of the Quebec Court of Appeal, has been appointed as the Commissioner to lead the public inquiry. Her mandate began on September 18, 2023. Appointed under the Inquiries Act, the Commissioner operates independently from the government and has a full range of powers, including the power to compel witnesses and testimony on matters within federal jurisdiction, and broad access to classified and unclassified documents.The Commissioner is mandated to examine and assess interference by China, Russia and other foreign states or nonstate actors, including any potential impacts, to confirm the integrity of, and any impacts on, the 43rd and 44th federal general elections at the national and electoral district levels.The Commissioner is also mandated to assess the capacity of federal entities to detect, deter and counter foreign interference targeting Canada’s democratic processes, and to make any recommendations she deems appropriate to better protect Canada’s democratic processes from foreign interference, including in relation to the creation and dissemination of intelligence, relevant supports and protections for members of diasporas, and the mechanisms that were in place to protect the integrity of 43rd and 44th elections.The Commissioner is directed to submit her first report no later than February 29, 2024, and her second report no later than December 31, 2024. As outlined in the Terms of Reference (https://www.canada.ca/en/democratic-institutions/general/terms-reference.html), to foster transparency and a better understanding of the findings, leaders of all parties recognized in the House of Commons with appropriate clearance will be invited to review classified versions of the Commissioner’s reports. The Government of Canada looks forward to receiving the Commissioner’s reports and any recommendations contained therein.The National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) and the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA) each have ongoing, parallel, reviews to assess the state of foreign interference in Canada’s federal electoral processes and the flow of information from national security agencies to decision makers during the 43rd and 44th general elections. The Government of Canada looks forward to receiving NSICOP’s and NSIRA’s findings and reports.The Government of Canada also continues to reinforce its efforts to counter any form of foreign interference in our electoral processes and to strengthen trust in Canada’s democratic institutions.  On March 6, 2023, the Prime Minister of Canada announced measures to further these objectives. This included the establishment of a National Counter Foreign Interference Coordinator at Public Safety Canada to coordinate efforts to combat foreign interference; the development of a plan to address recommendations from NSICOP and from the independent assessments of the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol by Mr. Morris Rosenberg and Mr. James Judd, and the investment of $5.5 million to strengthen the capacity of civil society partners to counter disinformation.Following the Prime Minister’s announcements, the Government released its report, Countering an evolving threat: Update on recommendations to counter foreign interference in Canada’s democratic institutions, which outlines the recommendations made in the reports to protect Canadian democratic institutions and processes; summarizes the actions that have been taken or are in progress to address the recommendations; and proposes further steps for consideration to bolster Canada’s response to foreign interference threats.These efforts demonstrate the Government’s continued efforts to protect our democratic institutions, including our electoral processes, from any possible threats, and to ensure Canada’s democracy remains one of the strongest in the world. Thank you for taking the time to submit this important petition and for being an active and engaged participant in our democracy.
ChinaForeign influenced activitiesInquiries and public inquiries
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01523441-01523 (Foreign affairs)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABJune 9, 2023August 16, 2023June 6, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas:
  • Various media outlets reported that the Communist Party of China (CCP) took efforts to interfere in Canada's federal elections;
  • Classified reports from the CSIS claim that a former CCP consular official in Canada celebrated and took credit for the defeat of two parliamentarians;
  • The Prime Minister's National Security Adviser, Jody Thomas, informed MPs that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was routinely briefed about election interference attempts by Beijing;
  • The Trudeau Foundation board of directors and CEO have resigned after a $200,000 donation from a businessman linked to the CCP was made to the organization;
  • The parliamentary committee investigating foreign interference voted to establish a public inquiry into foreign interference;
  • The Liberal government continues to block the creation of a public inquiry and denying its immediate necessity;
  • The Special Rapporteur appointed by the Prime Minister is in a hopeless conflict of interest having served as a member of the Trudeau Foundation, and is a personal friend of the Prime Minister;
  • The CCP engages in relationships with Canada as a strategic adversary such as hostage diplomacy with the unjust jailing of Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig;
  • The CCP has used this adversarial stance to conduct economic warfare on Canadian exports like agricultural products of grain and oil seeds that puts Canadian producers at risk; and
  • Canadians deserve democratic institutions they can trust that serve Canadians, and without interference from foreign agents.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:conduct a full open, independent, public inquiry into Beijing's election interference to give Canadians the transparency they need in order to restore the trust in Canada's civic and parliamentary institutions.
Response by the Prime Minister of CanadaSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada takes very seriously all allegations of foreign interference in electoral processes and is committed to the continuous strengthening of Canada’s democratic institutions and their protection from foreign interference. This is why the Prime Minister tasked the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, with leading consultations on what an upcoming process to shed light on the matter of foreign interference in Canadian elections could look like, and to determine who may best be suited to lead this public work. Canadians can rest assured that this is a priority of the Government of Canada and that the selected process will correspond to their needs and to the sensitivity of the intelligence.The Government of Canada also continues to reinforce its efforts to counter any form of foreign interference in our electoral processes and to strengthen trust in Canada’s democratic institutions.  On March 6, 2023, the Prime Minister of Canada announced measures to further this objective. This included the establishment of a National Counter Foreign Interference Coordinator at Public Safety Canada to coordinate efforts to combat foreign interference; the development of a plan to address  recommendations from the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) and from the independent assessments of the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol by Mr. Morris Rosenberg and Mr. James Judd, and the investment of $5.5 million to strengthen the capacity of civil society partners to counter disinformation.Following the Prime Minister’s announcements, the Government released its report, Countering an evolving threat: Update on recommendations to counter foreign interference in Canada’s democratic institutions, which outlines the recommendations made in the reports to protect Canadian democratic institutions and processes; summarizes the actions that have been taken or are in progress to address the recommendations; and proposes further steps for consideration to bolster Canada’s response to foreign interference threats.The Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructures and Communities has also announced additional details with regards to the $5.5 million investment to strengthen defences against online disinformation.These efforts demonstrate the Government of Canada’s continued efforts to protect our democratic institutions, including our electoral processes, from any possible threats.Additionally, both NSICOP and the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA) have indicated their intention to undertake reviews with regards to foreign interference and in accordance with their mandates. NSICOP has announced it will launch a review of foreign interference in Canada’s federal democratic processes pursuant to section 8(1)(a) of the NSICOP Act, and NSIRA has announced it will a review of the production and dissemination of intelligence on foreign interference with respect to the 43rd and 44th federal elections. The Government’s next steps will be taken in close consideration of the findings and recommendations of both bodies. Finally, when they are well informed and engaged, Canadians can be the best line of defence in our efforts to fight foreign interference in our democratic processes. As such, I wish to thank you for this petition, which I see as a clear commitment to democracy. Indeed, petitions are a direct form of democratic participation and contribute to the dialogue between citizens and their elected decision-makers.
ChinaForeign influenced activitiesInquiries and public inquiries
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01578441-01578 (Transportation)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONJune 21, 2023July 19, 2023June 14, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • VIA Rail Canada is a Crown corporation and operates Canada's national passenger rail service on behalf of the Government of Canada;
  • Before 2020, Via Rail Train 82 took morning commuters from Brantford to Toronto before 9:00 AM;
  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, Via Rail cancelled Train 82 and is refusing to reinstate it;
  • This decision has left hundreds of people stranded without a reliable mode of commuting from southwestern Ontario to Toronto and has had a significant impact on the daily lives of commuters who relied on this train line to get to work, school, or appointments;
  • This decision has not only increased travel time for commuters but also put additional strain on our already congested highways;
  • This has also caused many to leave southwestern Ontario or face unemployment;
  • According to Statistics Canada, the number of commuters travelling between Brantford and Toronto has been steadily increasing over the past decade; and
  • Commuting by train is more environmentally friendly than driving, and with climate change being an urgent global issue and traffic congestion causing significant economic losses, it is imperative that we prioritize sustainable transportation options, such as commuter trains.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Work with the management of Via Rail to expedite its decision-making process;
  • Explain to them the benefits, including profitability, of reinstating Train 82; and
  • Encourage Via Rail to reinstate Train 82 immediately.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraAs with the broader transportation industry, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on VIA Rail’s operations across the country, with reduced frequencies and schedule changes on most routes, including Train 82. When the number of travellers increased following the gradual easing of public health measures in 2021, VIA Rail implemented a return-to-service strategy based on consumer demand, as well as staff and fleet availability. This strategy demonstrates sound financial management by VIA Rail throughout what has been the most difficult period in its history.The Government of Canada has made a significant investment in passenger rail with the purchase of VIA Rail’s new fleet, which is now entering operation in the Quebec City - Windsor Corridor. As additional capacity comes into service, VIA Rail continues to evaluate its scheduling and frequency across its national network. With respect to Train 82, VIA Rail is working to return it back to service, along with Train 83. VIA Rail is currently in discussion with their infrastructure partners and is confident that these trains will once again be connecting communities along the route, including Brantford and Toronto by Fall 2023.VIA Rail is an independent Crown corporation that operates at arm’s length from the Government of Canada. Part of the Minister of Transport’s role is to determine VIA Rail’s broad policy while respecting its operational autonomy, including the scheduling and frequencies of trains, as well as overall service operations. 
Rail passenger transportationVIA Rail Canada Inc.
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01582441-01582 (Foreign affairs)LucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableConservativeQCJune 21, 2023September 18, 2023June 12, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed numerous war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation and its forces have repeatedly engaged in violent, indiscriminate attacks on civilian centres in Ukraine, including preschools and kindergartens, hospitals, and apartment complexes;
  • The Russian Federation deliberately targets Ukraine's energy system with its missile strikes to shut down the power grid and cause a humanitarian disaster during the winter;
  • The European Parliament, the PACE, and the NATO Parliamentary Assembly have declared the Russian Federation to be sponsoring acts of terrorism in Ukraine;
  • Canada's House of Commons has unanimously recognized that Russia's acts in Ukraine amount to genocide; and
  • Canada is committed to upholding the principles of international law and international humanitarian law.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately and publicly designate the Russian Federation as a state sponsor of terrorism.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mélanie JolyCanada remains unwavering in its commitment to employ all appropriate means to hold Russia to account for its actions, including war crimes committed in Ukraine.Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year, Canada has used a broad range of tools to respond to Russia’s illegitimate and illegal actions. Canada has imposed an unprecedented number of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine. Under the Special Economic Measures Act, and since 2014, Canada has sanctioned over 2,600 individuals and entities in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and Moldova. In addition, numerous measures have been imposed to increase economic pressure on the Putin regime and its allies. These measures include import and export prohibitions on a variety of goods and services, denying Russian ships access to Canadian waters and ports, removing Most Favoured Nation Status, and denying access to Canadian airspace to aircraft operated by or for the benefit of persons connected with the Russian Federation or Belarus.As part of a wider effort to hold Russia accountable for its atrocities and crimes Canada has advocated for international and domestic Ukraine accountability efforts and provided tangible support to the latter. This includes the investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Commission of Inquiry established by the UN Human Rights Council, and expert investigations under the OSCE Moscow Mechanism. Canada increased the number of RCMP deployments to 10 officers to support the ICC’s investigations, and is providing $2 million to an ICC Trust Fund to increase the Court’s capacity to investigate sexual and gender-based crimes and crimes against children. Canada has also allocated $9.7 million to improve accountability for human rights violations in Ukraine, with a particular emphasis on cases of sexual and gender-based violence.On July 4, 2023, Canada and the Netherlands filed joint written observations on the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice in Ukraine’s case against Russia, in which Ukraine seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take military action in Ukraine on the basis of unsubstantiated allegations of genocide. This filing follows the joint declaration of intervention put forth by Canada and the Netherlands in this case in December 2022, which the Court decided was admissible in its order dated June 5, 2023.In addition, Canada recently joined the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group for Ukraine (ACA) alongside the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union. The ACA will directly support the efforts of the War Crimes Units of the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine to document, preserve, and analyze evidence of war crimes and other atrocities committed in Ukraine.Regarding state supporters of terrorism, the State Immunity Act, is a narrowly defined legal instrument. A state may be considered for listing if there are reasonable grounds to believe the state has provided “support” to a terrorist entity listed under the Criminal Code. “Support” is defined as an act or omission committed in relation to a listed terrorist entity that, had it been committed in Canada, would be punishable under specific counterterrorism provisions of the Criminal Code. This legislation, together with the Justice of Victims of Terrorism Act, lifts state immunity to allow victims of terrorism, who have substantial connection to Canada, to sue for loss or damages resulting from an act of terrorism by the listed state. The legal criteria for listing do not cover acts of human rights abuses by a military. Atrocity crimes are covered by other Canadian legislation, such as the Crimes against Humanity and War Crimes Act.Canada was the first G7 country to adopt new authorities to allow the government to seize and forfeit the assets of sanctioned individuals or entities in Canada. Proceeds of forfeiture may be used to restore international peace and security, to compensate victims of human rights abuses, or to reconstruct states that have been adversely impacted by a grave breach of international peace and security. Canada will make full use of these new authorities with a view to support the victims of Russia’s unprovoked aggression.The Minister of Foreign Affairs has stated that events in Ukraine constitute war crimes and possible crimes against humanity, and has regularly rebutted Russia’s false claims.Canada will continue to work with its allies to hold Russia accountable for its actions and to support the people of Ukraine.
RussiaSupporters of terrorismUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01869441-01869 (Environment)Lisa MarieBarronNanaimo—LadysmithNDPBCNovember 2, 2023December 12, 2023October 12, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada Whereas:
  • Canadians care deeply about the health of the ocean, and depend on a thriving ocean ecosystem;
  • In 2019, over one million cruise ship passengers travelled off British Columbia on their way to Alaska;
  • These ships generate significant amounts of pollutants that are harmful to human health, aquatic organisms and coastal ecosystems;
  • Canada's regulations under the Canada Shipping Act addressing the discharge of sewage and greywater are much less stringent than those in US Pacific coastal states;
  • Canada permits sewage to be discharged with 18 times greater fecal coliform counts than does Alaska;
  • Canada does not require that ships built before 2013 treat greywater discharges;
  • 22 of the 25 cruise ships sailing off British Columbia in 2019 were built before 2013;
  • The Salish Sea in Washington State is a no-discharge zone prohibiting the discharge of sewage in order to protect public health, water quality, and sensitive marine resources;
  • Canada has zero no-discharge zones off British Columbia;
  • Canada does not require third party independent observers on board cruise ships as is required by Alaska; and
  • Canada's less stringent regulations encourage cruise ships to discharge their waste off British Columbia.
We, the undersigned, concerned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Set standards for cruise ship sewage and greywater discharges equivalent to or stronger than those in Alaska;2. Designate no-discharge zones to stop pollution in marine protected areas, the entirety of the Salish and Great Bear Seas, and in critical habitat for threatened and endangered species; and3. Require regular independent third-party monitoring while ships are underway to ensure discharge requirements are met.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezPart 1: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution.On June 23, 2023, Transport Canada announced mandatory environmental measures to address discharges of greywater and sewage from cruise ships, effective immediately within Canada’s territorial waters. These substances were previously included in voluntary measures but will now be enforceable under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 to provide stronger protection to Canada’s oceans and marine ecosystems. For more information, please refer to Ship Safety Bulletin No. 14/2023. These measures exceed international standards, strengthen Canada’s existing discharge regime, and place Canada amongst the countries with the most stringent requirements for these types of discharges in the world.The announcement of these new mandatory measures for sewage and greywater discharges in Canadian waters is a first step towards strengthening Transport Canada’s environmental regime. The mandatory measures also reflect work undertaken by Transport Canada to address concerns raised by the Canadian public and environmental organizations with respect to vessel-sourced pollution in Canadian waters.Transport Canada is currently working to make these changes permanent through amendments to the Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemicals Regulations. Transport Canada will also continue to collaborate with the United States and other like-minded jurisdictions to support the implementation of a strong environmental regime that takes in to account our respective and unique jurisdictions.Part 2: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and our marine environments from coast to coast to coast, to build a new world class environmental regime. Strengthening marine environmental protection requires a whole of government approach. Transport Canada is working closely with the Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada towards this shared objective.On February 8, 2023, the Government of Canada unveiled its 2023 Marine Protected Area Protection Standard, which, among other things, seeks to enhance restrictions on certain vessel discharges that occur within marine protected areas, including those located within the Salish and Great Bear Seas. Subject to further consultations with stakeholders, additional limitations or prohibitions are proposed for: oily engine bilge; sewage (blackwater); greywater; food waste; and scrubber washwater.In compliance with international regulations and law, voluntary measures for these substances, with the addition of garbage (including food wastes) and noxious liquid substances, will be also pursued in the Exclusive Economic Zone, 12–200 nautical miles from shore, where possible.Transport Canada also continues to support the ongoing work at the International Maritime Organization on these and related subjects. Part 3: Transport Canada has a robust marine oversight regime and is responsible for carrying out compliance and enforcement activities in accordance with the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and its regulations. The Department’s compliance and enforcement activities apply to Canadian and foreign vessels in Canadian waters. In instances where deficiencies or non-compliance are suspected or known, Transport Canada inspectors and investigators are authorized to take appropriate action to bring vessels into compliance. This may include directing corrective actions, issuing warnings or Administrative Monetary Penalties and Notices, or pursuing detentions and prosecutions through the Public Prosecution Service of Canada and the courts. Transport Canada compliance and enforcement actions are guided by the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and its regulations. Transport Canada will take into consideration new and/or additional methods to support oversight, as needed, as it continues to develop enhanced measures to strengthen Canada’s discharge requirements.Transport Canada will continue to engage with industry and interested parties to determine how to further strengthen the marine environmental regime, where needed. This would include consideration towards the compliance and enforcement regime.   
British ColumbiaCruise shipsSewage treatment and disposalWater quality
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01824441-01824 (Justice)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABOctober 25, 2023December 11, 2023October 12, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled and to the Minister of JusticeWe the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas:
  • As a growing number of adults experience divorce and the nature of unions in our country rapidly evolves, there is a clear need for a review of the Divorce Act;
  • Canada now has the highest rate of common law relationships among G7 countries, with the share of co-residing common-law couples increasing from 6% in 1981, to 23% in 2021;
  • Nearly 4 in 10 children live with a lone parent, stepparents, parents in a commonlaw relationship, or other non-traditional unions;
  • More than a quarter of adults in a relationship are in their second marriage or common-law relationship, and these relationships often last more than a decade and result in children;
  • However, despite the evolving nature of unions within our country, the Federal Child Support Guidelines created under the Divorce Act fail to reflect the diversity and complexity of unions in 2023; and
  • Canadian parents, especially fathers who are responsible for almost 97% of child support payments, are struggling to deal with convoluted guidelines which fail to consider lifestyle decisions of former spouses in new relationships and changing family situations such as the birth of children in blended families.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Justice to initiate a statutory review of the Divorce Act, specifically concerning the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which takes into account the evolving reality of blended families, variance of income over time, and better reflects the needs of children in shared custody situations.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyFamily law is an area of shared responsibility between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments. The Divorce Act and Federal Child Support Guidelines (Federal Guidelines) apply when people divorce or are divorced. Provincial and territorial family laws and child support guidelines apply when unmarried couples separate (common law partners) or when married couples separate but do not divorce. Federal, provincial, and territorial governments work together on an ongoing basis to monitor the application of the law and to improve the family justice system responses to the many complex issues that may arise during separation and divorce.Child support is the right of the child. The Federal Guidelines, a set of rules and tables, have the following goals: establish a fair standard of support for children so that they continue to benefit from both parents’ incomes after separation; reduce conflict between parents by making the calculation of child support more objective; ensure that parents and children in similar situations are treated the same; and make the legal process more efficient and encourage settlements.The guiding principle of the Federal Guidelines is that both parents share the responsibility to financially support their children based on their ability to do so. This responsibility continues even if parents remarry or have another relationship. Children should continue to benefit from both parents’ financial means after separation or divorce, just as they would if the family were still together.The way child support is calculated under the Federal Guidelines depends on the parenting time arrangement. In shared parenting time arrangements, the situation can vary significantly from one family to another. As a result, the method to calculate support in shared parenting time cases is discretionary. Child support is determined on a case-by-case basis by considering the following factors: (1) the amount in the tables that each parent would pay, based on each parent’s income; (2) the increased costs of shared parenting time; (3) the condition, means, needs and other circumstances of each parent and child.The Federal Guidelines recognize that in some cases, a child support amount, combined with other circumstances, could create undue hardship for a parent or child. Such circumstances could include the obligation to support children from another relationship. If an undue hardship claim is successful, a court may order a different child support amount.Child support is based on income. As income can vary overtime, so should child support amounts. Provincial child support services are administrative services that can calculate or recalculate child support amounts. These services can adjust child support amounts, either up or down, to reflect updated income information.The Government is committed to making the family justice system as fair as possible for all Canadians and to strengthening the family justice system. For example, Divorce Act amendments came into force in 2021 with the goal of promoting children’s best interests, addressing family violence, helping reduce poverty, and improving the efficiency and accessibility of the family justice system. In addition, work continues on various topics relating to Canadian families. The Department of Justice Canada recently undertook research on international child support models, including as it relates to shared parenting time, as well as on the experience of divorced and separated parents with child support and related issues. Information is published on the Department’s website. It is important for the Government of Canada to be aware of Canadians’ concerns about the family justice system so that work can continue with provincial and territorial governments to find ways to improve it.
Divorce ActMarriage and divorceStatutory reviewSupport of children
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01843441-01843 (Justice)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABOctober 27, 2023December 11, 2023October 12, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled and to the Minister of JusticeWe the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas:
  • As a growing number of adults experience divorce and the nature of unions in our country rapidly evolves, there is a clear need for a review of the Divorce Act;
  • Canada now has the highest rate of common law relationships among G7 countries, with the share of co-residing common-law couples increasing from 6% in 1981, to 23% in 2021;
  • Nearly 4 in 10 children live with a lone parent, stepparents, parents in a commonlaw relationship, or other non-traditional unions;
  • More than a quarter of adults in a relationship are in their second marriage or common-law relationship, and these relationships often last more than a decade and result in children;
  • However, despite the evolving nature of unions within our country, the Federal Child Support Guidelines created under the Divorce Act fail to reflect the diversity and complexity of unions in 2023; and
  • Canadian parents, especially fathers who are responsible for almost 97% of child support payments, are struggling to deal with convoluted guidelines which fail to consider lifestyle decisions of former spouses in new relationships and changing family situations such as the birth of children in blended families.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Justice to initiate a statutory review of the Divorce Act, specifically concerning the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which takes into account the evolving reality of blended families, variance of income over time, and better reflects the needs of children in shared custody situations.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyFamily law is an area of shared responsibility between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments. The Divorce Act and Federal Child Support Guidelines (Federal Guidelines) apply when people divorce or are divorced. Provincial and territorial family laws and child support guidelines apply when unmarried couples separate (common law partners) or when married couples separate but do not divorce. Federal, provincial, and territorial governments work together on an ongoing basis to monitor the application of the law and to improve the family justice system responses to the many complex issues that may arise during separation and divorce.Child support is the right of the child. The Federal Guidelines, a set of rules and tables, have the following goals: establish a fair standard of support for children so that they continue to benefit from both parents’ incomes after separation; reduce conflict between parents by making the calculation of child support more objective; ensure that parents and children in similar situations are treated the same; and make the legal process more efficient and encourage settlements.The guiding principle of the Federal Guidelines is that both parents share the responsibility to financially support their children based on their ability to do so. This responsibility continues even if parents remarry or have another relationship. Children should continue to benefit from both parents’ financial means after separation or divorce, just as they would if the family were still together.The way child support is calculated under the Federal Guidelines depends on the parenting time arrangement. In shared parenting time arrangements, the situation can vary significantly from one family to another. As a result, the method to calculate support in shared parenting time cases is discretionary. Child support is determined on a case-by-case basis by considering the following factors: (1) the amount in the tables that each parent would pay, based on each parent’s income; (2) the increased costs of shared parenting time; (3) the condition, means, needs and other circumstances of each parent and child.The Federal Guidelines recognize that in some cases, a child support amount, combined with other circumstances, could create undue hardship for a parent or child. Such circumstances could include the obligation to support children from another relationship. If an undue hardship claim is successful, a court may order a different child support amount.Child support is based on income. As income can vary overtime, so should child support amounts. Provincial child support services are administrative services that can calculate or recalculate child support amounts. These services can adjust child support amounts, either up or down, to reflect updated income information.The Government is committed to making the family justice system as fair as possible for all Canadians and to strengthening the family justice system. For example, Divorce Act amendments came into force in 2021 with the goal of promoting children’s best interests, addressing family violence, helping reduce poverty, and improving the efficiency and accessibility of the family justice system. In addition, work continues on various topics relating to Canadian families. The Department of Justice Canada recently undertook research on international child support models, including as it relates to shared parenting time, as well as on the experience of divorced and separated parents with child support and related issues. Information is published on the Department’s website. It is important for the Government of Canada to be aware of Canadians’ concerns about the family justice system so that work can continue with provincial and territorial governments to find ways to improve it.
Divorce ActMarriage and divorceStatutory reviewSupport of children
44th Parliament223Government response tabledFebruary 28, 2024441-02014441-02014 (Employment and labour)WarrenSteinleyRegina—LewvanConservativeSKJanuary 29, 2024February 28, 2024November 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01963441-01963 (Fisheries)RachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverNDPBCNovember 28, 2023January 29, 2024October 30, 2023Petition to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardWhereas:
  • Migrating juvenile wild salmon stocks are under threat from pathogens, pollutants, and sea lice originating from open net-cage fish farms;
  • Wild salmon support First Nations' cultural traditions and complex ecosystems, including contributing to coastal forests, which produce the oxygen we breathe; and
  • Pacific salmon runs on the British Columbia coast are in a state of emergency.
We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard to:
  • Acknowledge the expression of support for the closure of the Discovery Island fish farms, and urge the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, to continue saving Pacific Wild Salmon by not issuing any more licenses to open-pen fish farms.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Diane LebouthillierThe Government of Canada is committed to working closely with First Nations, industry, and other partners to protect and restore oceans and waterways, and to ensure the long-term sustainability of wild Pacific salmon for their significance to the environment, economy, and culture of Indigenous communities and British Columbians. The Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative (PSSI), launched in 2021, is the Government’s long-term strategy to stem serious declines in Pacific salmon populations through a series of science-based approaches and represents a historic $686M investment over five years into Pacific salmon programming and activities. The PSSI is now in full implementation, and there are several significant projects underway. These include: international high seas science and monitoring to better understand the ocean phase of the salmon life cycle; deployment of Canada’s first high seas fisheries enforcement mission to protect against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; enhanced salmon ecosystem monitoring and targeted harvest enforcement efforts; and initiation of new collaborative integrated planning and salmon rebuilding processes for salmon in both British Columbia and the Yukon.Our Government is committed to work with the Province of British Columbia and Indigenous communities on a responsible plan to transition from open-net pen salmon farming in coastal British Columbia waters. The transition plan will rely on input received from First Nations, industry, local governments, stakeholders, and British Columbians. As such, the consultation period has been extended to allow sufficient time for all interested parties to be meaningfully engaged. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is the regulatory lead in British Columbia and remains committed to ensuring that aquaculture is conducted in a sustainable and responsible manner, with the highest standards of environmental protection and animal health. A rigorous regulatory framework is in place that requires fish farmers to comply with strict rules and conditions, such as monitoring and reporting of fish health, sea lice levels, and environmental impacts.The proposed vision of the open-net pen transition plan is to advance innovation and growth of sustainable aquaculture in British Columbia while also taking into account social, cultural and economic objectives. Once a transition plan is finalized, we will further engage with First Nations and stakeholders on the next phases of plan implementation. Together, we can work towards a shared vision of a sustainable and prosperous future for the wild Pacific salmon and the aquaculture sector in British Columbia.
AquacultureBritish ColumbiaFisheries licencesWild salmon
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 26, 2024441-02202441-02202 (Health)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 26, 2024October 30, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Liberals are threatening access to Natural Health Products through new rules that will mean higher costs and fewer products available on store shelves;
  • New so-called 'cost recovery' provisions would impose massive costs on all consumers of Natural Health Products and undermine access for Canadians who rely on these products; and
  • Provisions in the latest Liberal omnibus budget have given the government substantial new arbitrary powers around the regulation of Natural Health Products.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to reverse the changes made in the latest Liberal budget regarding Natural Health Products.
Natural health products
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02038441-02038 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKJanuary 31, 2024March 18, 2024November 21, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program. 
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02039441-02039 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKJanuary 31, 2024March 18, 2024November 22, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program. 
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01981441-01981 (Employment and labour)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABDecember 7, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 8, 2024441-02107441-02107 (Information and privacy)BrianMasseWindsor WestNDPONFebruary 8, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:The Report on cyber security and national security concerns has confirmed the need to address cyber systems security (see "Special Report on the National Security and Intelligence Activities of Global Affairs Canada", made public in Feb 2023. More info at: https://e4pinc.ca/legislation/);Cyber security will require international agreements better suited for Federal Government negotiation;International agreements will be better informed by national Cyber System Security licensing body to directly advise the Federal Government;Canada must have trustworthy and competent cyber professionals to protect our national infrastructure and security, including those of public safety;The Immigration Consultants Act establishes a precedent for creating professional licensing at the Federal Government level;Cyber security is part of communications, a federal responsibility;Professional self-governance is unique to Canada with well-established long-standing principles;Canada's ransomware, on attack per population, is the second highest in the world, while Global Cybercrime was 7 trillion $ in 2022, 3.5x the Canadian economy;The Canada Revenue Agency was Ransomware attacked with potential impact on all Canadians; andCanada needs at least 25,000 Cyber professionals amid increasing cyberattacks on Canadians and our critical infrastructure.Therefore, we, the undersigned, concerned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to establish a National Cyber Security licensing body to govern Canadian cyber security professionals in order that the interests of the public are served and protected.e-SecurityOversight mechanism44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01989441-01989 (Justice)BobZimmerPrince George—Peace River—Northern RockiesConservativeBCDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Trudeau government has attempted to ban and seize the hunting rifles and shotguns of millions of Canadians;
  • The targeting of farmers and hunters does not fight crime; and
  • The Trudeau government has failed those who participate in the Canadian traditions of sport-shooting.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to stop any and all current and future bans on hunting and sport-shooting firearms.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighborhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners.A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21, which received Royal Assent on December 15, 2023 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control. The new law includes a new forward-looking technical definition of a prohibited firearm that contains the characteristics of an assault-style firearm.Firearms that match the characteristics and requirements of this new technical definition will be prohibited. That is, a firearm that is not a handgun and that fires centre-fire ammunition in a semi-automatic manner, was originally designed with a detachable magazine with a capacity of six cartridges or more, and that is designed and manufactured on or after the day the definition comes into force. As this new definition is forward looking, it applies to firearms that are designed and manufactured on or after December 15, 2023. This ensures that new firearms that exceed safe civilian use are not introduced into our communities. .This definition does not apply to firearms that were on the market prior the passage of C-21. No firearms legally owned by Canadians today will be affected.To stop the growth of handgun ownership, which grew from 500,000 in 2010 to more than 1 million in 2020, Bill C-21 codified the handgun freeze in statute. While current handgun owners can continue to use their handguns, Bill C-21 prevents most individuals from transferring or acquiring new handguns, with narrow exemptions, including for sport shooting. Individuals who are training, competing or coaching in a handgun discipline on the programme of the Olympic or Paralympic Committees and who are recognized as such by the national or provincial-territorial sport shooting governing body can continue to acquire or import handguns. Public Safety Canada will conduct consultations regarding the process for these athletes to acquire handguns for their sport and to support the development of regulations related to this exemption.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada. This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence.The Government has also invested over $1.3B since 2016 to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase firearms tracing capacity and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country. 
FirearmsHunters
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01969441-01969 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONDecember 5, 2023January 29, 2024November 30, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Frontenac Secondary School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02119441-02119 (Employment and labour)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2024441-02071441-02071 (Media and telecommunications)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCFebruary 5, 2024March 20, 2024January 19, 2024Petition to the Government of Canada WHEREAS:
  • Current penalties for violations of telemarketing rules and data usage as per Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation are weak and largely ineffective;
  • The federal government has failed to protect the 68,061 Canadians that fell victim to fraud in 2021;
  • The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reported $383 million lost to fraud in the last year; and
  • A significant number of Canadians are harassed by spam phone calls and text messages every day.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately implement a comprehensive Anti-Spam Strategy and stop the harassment of unsolicited and fraudulent phone calls and text messages to Canadian consumers.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable François-Philippe ChampagneReceiving spam phone calls and text messages, including scam calls and messages, is a serious concern for many Canadians. That is why the Government of Canada has introduced a variety of measures to help Canadians in that regard.Telemarketing and unwanted callsThe Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), as Canada’s national telecommunications regulator, enforces rules under the Telecommunications Act that help Canadians reduce the number of unsolicited communications that they receive. The National Do Not Call List (DNCL) Rules allow Canadians to add their telephone numbers to a list of numbers that telemarketers are not allowed to call. The DNCL has been in operation for 15 years and includes 14.7 million telephone numbers. Furthermore, the CRTC enforces other rules that address, among others, the time of day when telemarketing is permitted, as well as the need for telemarketers to identify themselves. Additional rules apply when telemarketers deliver a pre-recorded message, sometimes referred to as ‘robocalls’. The CRTC takes violations of these rules very seriously and can issue penalties if a telemarketer breaks them. During the 2022–2023 fiscal year, the CRTC issued over $600,000 in financial penalties against telemarketers.To combat scammers, the CRTC also works with telecommunications service providers (TSPs) to block and trace such calls. For example, the CRTC requires TSPs to block calls when caller identification (ID) either exceeds 15 digits or when it isn’t in a Canadian format, e.g., 000-000-0000. Additionally, in December 2021, the CRTC approved a request from Bell Canada to permanently implement a call blocking solution that uses artificial intelligence to prevent scam calls originating from outside of Canada from reaching Canadians. From July 2020 to November 2023, it prevented over 2.8 billion calls from doing so. Similarly, the CRTC is working with TSPs to develop a way to trace scam calls back to their point of origin.The CRTC also works with industry to alert Canadians if an incoming call may be part of a scam. This is important given the rise of caller ID spoofing, where the caller ID is falsified. On November 30, 2021, TSPs implemented a new approach, referred to as STIR/SHAKEN, to combat such calls. This approach works by notifying Canadians whether an incoming call originates from a real number. While it is not currently possible to authenticate all incoming calls, it is expected that, over time, this approach will become more effective as TSPs upgrade their networks and more Canadians use telephones that are compatible with this approach.There are also other steps that Canadians can take to reduce the number of telemarketing and spam calls that they receive, such as to file a complaint directly with the DNCL Operator at http://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/en/Consumer/File-a-complaint or by calling 1-866-580-3625. The best way for Canadians to assist the CRTC in identifying violations is to file complaints. Such complaints help the CRTC to gather intelligence, identify high-impact cases to investigate, and take enforcement action against violators. Canadians are also encouraged to speak with TSPs about any call management or call blocking options they offer that could be helpful. CASLCanadians deserve an effective law that protects them from spam and other electronic threats that lead to harassment, identity theft and fraud. Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) plays an important role in building trust in the digital environment, which is essential for continued economic growth: CASL helps protect Canadians from spam and other electronic threats, while ensuring that businesses can continue to compete in the global marketplace. A 2015 Cloudmark study found that within a year of CASL being introduced, there was a 37% reduction in spam originating from Canada and 29% less spam email in Canadians’ inboxes.CASL prohibits, among other things, sending unsolicited commercial electronic messages (email and text messages spam, for example, but not voice spam calls which fall under the DNCL), altering transmission data, and the installation of computer programs (such as malware) without user’s consent. It does this to protect Canadians from spam and other electronic threats, while ensuring that businesses can continue to compete in the global marketplace.CASL is enforced by three federal agencies. The CRTC, an independent  administrative tribunal that operates at arm’s length from the federal government, is responsible for interpreting and enforcing CASL provisions related to spam and other electronic threats that can lead to harassment, identity theft, and fraud. The CRTC can issue administrative monetary penalties (AMPs) for violations of sections that prohibit the sending of unsolicited commercial electronic messages, the alteration of transmission data and the installation of software without consent. The Competition Bureau can seek AMPs or criminal sanctions under the Competition Act for acts of false or misleading representations and deceptive marketing practices in the electronic marketplace. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada also has powers under an amended Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) related to the collection of personal information through illicit access to other people’s computer systems and the harvesting of electronic addresses. AMPs that could be imposed under CASL can be substantial. The maximum amount of an AMP to be imposed by the CRTC, per violation, for an individual is $1 million. For a business, it is $10 million.The CRTC has taken action against several violators of the anti-spam provisions, often in collaboration with domestic and international law enforcement.  Recently, The CRTC’s Chief Compliance and Enforcement Officer announced penalties totalling $300,000 to four Canadians for their involvement in the Dark Web marketplace CanadianHQ. To date, the CRTC’s CASL  enforcement efforts have resulted in over $3.2 million issued in AMPs.Canadians can also contribute to fighting spam by reporting spam messages to the Spam Reporting Centre. Each submission provides valuable information and is an essential part of the intelligence the Spam Reporting Centre gathers on spam and other electronic threats. The information provided may be used to investigate serious cases and take necessary action concerning contraventions to CASL, which can include imposition of AMPs. Submissions to the Spam Reporting Center can be made online at: https://www.fightspam.gc.ca/eic/site/030.nsf/frm-eng/MMCN-9EZV6S.Scam calls and messagesIf Canadians receive a call that appears to be part of a scam, they are encouraged to report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). The CAFC is jointly operated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Ontario Provincial Police and the Competition Bureau, and works as the central agency in Canada to collect information and criminal intelligence on scams. More information on how Canadians can identify and report scams can be found on the CAFC website at http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
Allegations of fraud and fraudSpamTelephone systems and telephony
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02065441-02065 (Health)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONFebruary 2, 2024March 18, 2024January 19, 2024Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence - can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;Whereas the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence - including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Whereas Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Whereas online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights;Whereas anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andWhereas online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02191441-02191 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 16, 2024March 22, 2024December 19, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02118441-02118 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02114441-02114 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02116441-02116 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2024441-02078441-02078 (Business and trade)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 5, 2024March 20, 2024January 26, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:Back on September 22, at a time of War the President of Ukraine came to Canada to sign the modernized Canada Ukraine Free Trade Agreement;Bill C-57 will put into law the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement that will assist Ukraine in rebuilding after they defeat the illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress has called on the Parliament of Canada to swiftly adopt this legislation; andMisinformation regarding Canada's carbon pricing scheme having an effect on this agreement has been widely debunked.THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons and all parliamentarians to re-affirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine by swiftly adopting the updated Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement.
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuThe Government of Canada condemns Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war is a blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and a threat to global peace and security. President Putin’s war of choice is a war on freedom, democracy, and the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on Russian leadership. The Government of Canada’s support to Ukraine has been comprehensive. With a long relationship dating back to the end of the Cold War, Canada drew on a strong foundation of bilateral assistance and diplomatic ties when Russia launched a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Since 2022, the Government of Canada has committed over $13.3 billion in multifaceted assistance to Ukraine. Assistance is diverse and all-encompassing, including military, development, humanitarian, security and stabilization and financial assistance.  Support through financial assistance, expertise, sanctions, and diplomacy also addresses vitally important challenges such as constraining Russia's ability to finance its war, holding Russia to account for massive violations of international law and violations of human rights in Ukraine, as well as countering Russian disinformation, and addressing the global impact of the war on food security and energy.Diplomatically, Canada has played a central role in supporting the six United Nations General Assembly resolutions denouncing the war as illegal and issuing statements and other actions across multiple multilateral organizations to hold Russia to account. Canada has also played a key leadership role across G7, G20, NATO, and other groupings, leading to an unsurpassed level of collective action and coordination.Another form of Canadian support to Ukraine is through the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), a comprehensive, high-standard agreement that, once implemented, will strengthen the foundation on which Canadian and Ukrainian businesses can work together in the economic reconstruction of Ukraine. Building on the original 2017 CUFTA which was a comprehensive goods-focussed agreement, Canada and Ukraine launched negotiations to modernize the agreement to include various new chapters on trade in services, investment, and other areas. The final modernized CUFTA was signed by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in Ottawa on September 22, 2023. The Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Ukraine, Bill-C57, was later introduced in Parliament where opposition to the Bill has been raised regarding the inclusion of carbon pricing in the CUFTA Environment chapter.The Environment chapter recognizes that trade has an important role in addressing the threat to climate and includes several provisions to facilitate cooperation between Canada and Ukraine on matters of mutual interests regarding trade and the environment, including on carbon pricing. These provisions, which are cooperation-based in nature and not binding on either party, are included to facilitate cooperation between our two countries and would only apply if Canada and Ukraine agree to cooperate after considering factors such as national priorities, circumstances, and availability of resources. However, it should be noted that the Agreement does not include any provisions requiring the implementation of a carbon tax. Additionally, carbon pricing has been in place since 2019 in Canada while Ukraine introduced a carbon tax in 2011, which covers all types of fuels, to address CO2 emissions from industry, power, and buildings sectors.
C-57, An Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and UkraineCanada-Ukraine Free Trade AgreementTrade agreementsUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02063441-02063 (Business and trade)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 2, 2024March 18, 2024January 26, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:Back on September 22, at a time of War the President of Ukraine came to Canada to sign the modernized Canada Ukraine Free Trade Agreement;Bill C-57 will put into law the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement that will assist Ukraine in rebuilding after they defeat the illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress has called on the Parliament of Canada to swiftly adopt this legislation; andMisinformation regarding Canada's carbon pricing scheme having an effect on this agreement has been widely debunked.THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons and all parliamentarians to re-affirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine by swiftly adopting the updated Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement.
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuThe Government of Canada condemns Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war is a blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and a threat to global peace and security. President Putin’s war of choice is a war on freedom, democracy, and the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on Russian leadership. The Government of Canada’s support to Ukraine has been comprehensive. With a long relationship dating back to the end of the Cold War, Canada drew on a strong foundation of bilateral assistance and diplomatic ties when Russia launched a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Since 2022, the Government of Canada has committed over $13.3 billion in multifaceted assistance to Ukraine. Assistance is diverse and all-encompassing, including military, development, humanitarian, security and stabilization and financial assistance.  Support through financial assistance, expertise, sanctions, and diplomacy also addresses vitally important challenges such as constraining Russia's ability to finance its war, holding Russia to account for massive violations of international law and violations of human rights in Ukraine, as well as countering Russian disinformation, and addressing the global impact of the war on food security and energy.Diplomatically, Canada has played a central role in supporting the six United Nations General Assembly resolutions denouncing the war as illegal and issuing statements and other actions across multiple multilateral organizations to hold Russia to account. Canada has also played a key leadership role across G7, G20, NATO, and other groupings, leading to an unsurpassed level of collective action and coordination.Another form of Canadian support to Ukraine is through the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), a comprehensive, high-standard agreement that, once implemented, will strengthen the foundation on which Canadian and Ukrainian businesses can work together in the economic reconstruction of Ukraine. Building on the original 2017 CUFTA which was a comprehensive goods-focussed agreement, Canada and Ukraine launched negotiations to modernize the agreement to include various new chapters on trade in services, investment, and other areas. The final modernized CUFTA was signed by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in Ottawa on September 22, 2023. The Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Ukraine, Bill-C57, was later introduced in Parliament where opposition to the Bill has been raised regarding the inclusion of carbon pricing in the CUFTA Environment chapter.The Environment chapter recognizes that trade has an important role in addressing the threat to climate and includes several provisions to facilitate cooperation between Canada and Ukraine on matters of mutual interests regarding trade and the environment, including on carbon pricing. These provisions, which are cooperation-based in nature and not binding on either party, are included to facilitate cooperation between our two countries and would only apply if Canada and Ukraine agree to cooperate after considering factors such as national priorities, circumstances, and availability of resources. However, it should be noted that the Agreement does not include any provisions requiring the implementation of a carbon tax. Additionally, carbon pricing has been in place since 2019 in Canada while Ukraine introduced a carbon tax in 2011, which covers all types of fuels, to address CO2 emissions from industry, power and buildings sectors.
C-57, An Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and UkraineCanada-Ukraine Free Trade AgreementTrade agreementsUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02053441-02053 (Business and trade)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 1, 2024March 18, 2024January 26, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:Back on September 22, at a time of War the President of Ukraine came to Canada to sign the modernized Canada Ukraine Free Trade Agreement;Bill C-57 will put into law the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement that will assist Ukraine in rebuilding after they defeat the illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress has called on the Parliament of Canada to swiftly adopt this legislation; andMisinformation regarding Canada's carbon pricing scheme having an effect on this agreement has been widely debunked.THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons and all parliamentarians to re-affirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine by swiftly adopting the updated Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement.
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuThe Government of Canada condemns Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war is a blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and a threat to global peace and security. President Putin’s war of choice is a war on freedom, democracy, and the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on Russian leadership. The Government of Canada’s support to Ukraine has been comprehensive. With a long relationship dating back to the end of the Cold War, Canada drew on a strong foundation of bilateral assistance and diplomatic ties when Russia launched a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Since 2022, the Government of Canada has committed over $13.3 billion in multifaceted assistance to Ukraine. Assistance is diverse and all-encompassing, including military, development, humanitarian, security and stabilization and financial assistance.  Support through financial assistance, expertise, sanctions, and diplomacy also addresses vitally important challenges such as constraining Russia's ability to finance its war, holding Russia to account for massive violations of international law and violations of human rights in Ukraine, as well as countering Russian disinformation, and addressing the global impact of the war on food security and energy.Diplomatically, Canada has played a central role in supporting the six United Nations General Assembly resolutions denouncing the war as illegal and issuing statements and other actions across multiple multilateral organizations to hold Russia to account. Canada has also played a key leadership role across G7, G20, NATO, and other groupings, leading to an unsurpassed level of collective action and coordination.Another form of Canadian support to Ukraine is through the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), a comprehensive, high-standard agreement that, once implemented, will strengthen the foundation on which Canadian and Ukrainian businesses can work together in the economic reconstruction of Ukraine. Building on the original 2017 CUFTA which was a comprehensive goods-focussed agreement, Canada and Ukraine launched negotiations to modernize the agreement to include various new chapters on trade in services, investment, and other areas. The final modernized CUFTA was signed by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in Ottawa on September 22, 2023. The Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Ukraine, Bill-C57, was later introduced in Parliament where opposition to the Bill has been raised regarding the inclusion of carbon pricing in the CUFTA Environment chapter.The Environment chapter recognizes that trade has an important role in addressing the threat to climate and includes several provisions to facilitate cooperation between Canada and Ukraine on matters of mutual interests regarding trade and the environment, including on carbon pricing. These provisions, which are cooperation-based in nature and not binding on either party, are included to facilitate cooperation between our two countries and would only apply if Canada and Ukraine agree to cooperate after considering factors such as national priorities, circumstances, and availability of resources. However, it should be noted that the Agreement does not include any provisions requiring the implementation of a carbon tax. Additionally, carbon pricing has been in place since 2019 in Canada while Ukraine introduced a carbon tax in 2011, which covers all types of fuels, to address CO2 emissions from industry, power, and buildings sectors. 
C-57, An Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and UkraineCanada-Ukraine Free Trade AgreementTrade agreementsUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02117441-02117 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02047441-02047 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBJanuary 31, 2024March 18, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community. Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017. Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices. The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities. In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action. 
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02026441-02026 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024December 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Trudeau government has attempted to ban and seize the hunting rifles and shotguns of millions of Canadians;
  • The targeting of farmers and hunters does not fight crime; and
  • The Trudeau government has failed those who participate in the Canadian traditions of sport-shooting.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to stop any and all current and future bans on hunting and sport-shooting firearms.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighborhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners.A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21, which received Royal Assent on December 15, 2023 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control. The new law includes a new forward-looking technical definition of a prohibited firearm that contains the characteristics of an assault-style firearm.Firearms that match the characteristics and requirements of this new technical definition will be prohibited. That is, a firearm that is not a handgun and that fires centre-fire ammunition in a semi-automatic manner, was originally designed with a detachable magazine with a capacity of six cartridges or more, and that is designed and manufactured on or after the day the definition comes into force. As this new definition is forward looking, it applies to firearms that are designed and manufactured on or after December 15, 2023. This ensures that new firearms that exceed safe civilian use are not introduced into our communities. This definition does not apply to firearms that were on the market prior the passage of C-21. No firearms legally owned by Canadians today will be affected.To stop the growth of handgun ownership, which grew from 500,000 in 2010 to more than 1 million in 2020, Bill C-21 codified the handgun freeze in statute. While current handgun owners can continue to use their handguns, Bill C-21 prevents most individuals from transferring or acquiring new handguns, with narrow exemptions, including for sport shooting. Individuals who are training, competing or coaching in a handgun discipline on the programme of the Olympic or Paralympic Committees and who are recognized as such by the national or provincial-territorial sport shooting governing body can continue to acquire or import handguns. Public Safety Canada will conduct consultations regarding the process for these athletes to acquire handguns for their sport and to support the development of regulations related to this exemption.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada. This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence.The Government has also invested over $1.3B since 2016 to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase firearms tracing capacity and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country. 
FirearmsHunters
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 21, 2024441-02258441-02258 (Justice)ShannonStubbsLakelandConservativeABMarch 21, 2024December 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Trudeau government has attempted to ban and seize the hunting rifles and shotguns of millions of Canadians;
  • The targeting of farmers and hunters does not fight crime; and
  • The Trudeau government has failed those who participate in the Canadian traditions of sport-shooting.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to stop any and all current and future bans on hunting and sport-shooting firearms.
FirearmsHunters
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02061441-02061 (Food and drink)MartinShieldsBow RiverConservativeABFebruary 2, 2024March 18, 2024December 13, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Provincial farmers' market nutrition coupon programs are successful with multiple impacts including strengthening food security, sustaining local farmers and foodlands, providing nutritionally vulnerable households access to healthy locally grown foods, promoting community inclusion and reducing social isolation, and positively impacting the physical and mental health of participants by increasing the amount and diversity of fresh fruits, vegetables and proteins they eat;
  • In 2022 18.5% of all Canadians experienced food insecurity, up from nearly 16% in 2021;
  • The Government of Canada introduced its Food Policy for Canada in 2019, the Emergency Food Security Fund in 2020, and the Local Food Infrastructure Fund in 2020, yet Canada's food insecurity rates continue to rise;
  • Since 2012, the British Columbia Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program has increased access to healthy, nutritious food at farmers' markets while directly supporting BC farmers and supporting food security across the province;
  • Other provinces including Nova Scotia (since 2019) and Manitoba (since 2020) and their provincial farmers' market organisations have also implemented highly successful programs;
  • 100% of coupon dollars redeemed in farmers' market nutrition coupon programs directly benefit Canadian farmers and producers;
  • Demand for food security measures is soaring in Canada; and
  • A federal nutrition coupon program fund would assist in meeting this demand, encourage provinces without a provincial nutrition coupon program to create one, and support those provinces who have a provincial nutrition coupon program to expand to meet demand.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, petition to call upon the Government of Canada to create a national nutrition coupon program fund that will strengthen and grow all existing and proposed provincial and territorial farmers' markets nutrition coupon programs across Canada.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, PC, MPOn June 17, 2019, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) launched the first Food Policy for Canada, a whole-of-government approach supporting the vision that “All people in Canada are able to access a sufficient amount of safe, nutritious and culturally diverse food. Canada’s food system is resilient and innovative, sustains our environment, and supports our economy.”The Food Policy for Canada is an ambitious initiative, the product of consultation and collaboration with Canadians across the country. The Government of Canada heard from more than 45,000 Canadians, including agricultural producers and processors, experts in environment, health and food security, Indigenous groups, non-government organizations, and community advocates.Recognizing the importance of helping communities access healthy food, AAFC is delivering the Local Food Infrastructure Fund, a Food Policy initiative with $70 million in funding to strengthen local food systems and to facilitate access to safe and nutritious food for at-risk populations.To date, the Local Food Infrastructure Fund has committed $64.8 million to support over 1,100 vital food security projects across Canada, such as: community gardens and kitchens; refrigerated trucks and storage units for donated food; greenhouses in remote and Northern communities; and more.The Government of Canada also delivered the $330 million Emergency Food Security Fund by providing funding to national and regional organizations, which in turn supported food banks and local food organizations across Canada. This emergency fund helped improve access to food for people experiencing food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.In British Columbia, the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program (FMNCP) is supported by the Province of British Columbia, the Provincial Health Services Authority, and community donors. The Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) Healthy Canadians and Communities Fund (HCCF) program, which was previously known as the Multi-sectoral Partnerships Program to Promote Healthy Living and Prevent Chronic Disease, supported a similar initiative with an investment of $1.5M from 2019 to 2025 to expand Community Food Centres Canada’s Market Greens initiative to 30 locations across Canada. The Market Greens initiative supports increased access to low-cost fresh produce markets and offers fruit and vegetable vouchers/coupons that can be used at participating local affordable markets.The HCCF program supports projects that increase access to healthy foods through supportive food environments, which are important determinants of healthy eating behaviours. Projects such as FMNCP that address social and physical environments affecting the accessibility and types of healthy foods available to communities are eligible for funding through HCCF.Through the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership, the Government of Canada contributes to cost-shared programming for provinces and territories to advance regional priorities, which can include nutrition coupon programs at farmers markets. For example, in 2023, a grant of $1.1M through the Province of Manitoba under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership supported Direct Farm Manitoba in delivering an expanded Manitoba Community Food Currency Program to empower Manitobans facing food insecurity to purchase locally produced fruit, vegetables, meat and processed foods at farmers’ markets.Thank you for the sharing your proposal to improve Canadians’ access to healthy, local foods through farmers markets and FMNCPs. The Government of Canada remains committed to considering all opportunities to improve food security for Canadians and a vibrant, productive agriculture sector in Canada.
Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon ProgramFarmers marketsFood and drinkFood supply
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 14, 2024441-02158441-02158 (Business and trade)ChurenceRogersBonavista—Burin—TrinityLiberalNLFebruary 14, 2024February 14, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:Bill C-57 is an important update to the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement that will assist Ukraine in rebuilding after they defeat the illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress has called on the Parliament of Canada to swiftly adopt this legislation; andMisinformation regarding Canada's carbon pricing scheme having an effect on this agreement has been widely debunked.THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons and all parliamentarians to re-affirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine by swiftly adopting the updated Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement.Canada-Ukraine Free Trade AgreementTrade agreementsUkraine44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02103441-02103 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024November 22, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01913441-01913 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONNovember 9, 2023January 29, 2024November 8, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Holy Cross Secondary School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-02002441-02002 (Employment and labour)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024November 3, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01874441-01874 (Health)Hon.Judy A.SgroHumber River—Black CreekLiberalONNovember 6, 2023January 29, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the House of Commons WHEREAS:
  • Over 8 million people are suffering from eye diseases and 1.2 million live with vision loss or blindness;
  • 75% of vision losses cases, if diagnosed and treated early, are preventable;
  • Historically, the federal government has lacked any substantive framework on the matter of public eye health care and the current structure has created huge gaps in access to care;
  • Systematic tackling of the issue will improve lives of millions of Canadians; and
  • It is necessary to establish a proper coordination framework between federal and provincial governments, increase capacity, provide sufficient funding for eye care, make vision care more affordable and inclusive, raise awareness of the importance of the vision care.
THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt bill C-284, an Act to establish a national strategy for eye care, as soon as possible.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandVision care is beneficial through all stages of life. Healthy vision is important for young children’s development, and helps to make many careers and activities of daily life easier. As people age, maintaining good eye health can reduce the odds of facing blindness and vision loss, as well as improve outcomes associated with eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma.Vision loss in Canada can be caused by several common eye diseases, including macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. According to a report from Deloitte and the Canadian Council of the Blind, more than eight million Canadians had a common eye disease in 2019 and were at serious risk of losing their vision. More than 1 in 10 older adults had some degree of vision loss.Regular eye exams can identify early issues with eye health and also screen for a range of health conditions including high blood pressures, diabetes, macular degeneration, and various blood diseases.While provinces and territories have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services, the federal health portfolio is leading and supporting a range of activities related to eye disease prevention and treatment.The Government of Canada is committed to investing in our health care system and supporting provinces and territories in delivering better health care for Canadians. The 2023 Federal Budget committed close to $200 billion over ten years in health funding to provinces and territories. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding, $25 billion of which has been designated to address four shared health priorities:
  • expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • modernizing the health care system with standardized health data and digital tools.
This funding builds on the 2017 investment of $11 billion over ten years to help provinces and territories improve home and community care, and mental health, and $3 billion to strengthen long-term care from Budget 2021. Addressing health workforce shortages and surgical backlogs, including for vision-related surgeries, is a key part of the Government of Canada’s plan for the health care system. Budget 2023 included a $2 billion one-time top-up to provinces and territories to address urgent pressures in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and pediatric hospitals.Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits Program also provides vision care to eligible First Nations and Inuit beneficiaries where not otherwise covered by other plans or programs. The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program’s vision care coverage includes eye exams, corrective eyewear, and eyeglass repairs.The Government of Canada recognizes that supporting research is key to a fulsome understanding of eye health, including how to prevent vision loss. Since 2018, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research have invested approximately $61 million in vision-related research. This research spans the spectrum of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various vision-related conditions.Health Canada also regulates drugs and medical devices, including those intended to be used for eye diseases and conditions. Where warranted, Health Canada has existing expedited review pathways that can be used to facilitate quicker access to health products that treat, prevent, or diagnose serious or life-threatening disease and conditions. Health Canada is also working closely with key stakeholders to identify and mitigate critical shortages of ophthalmic products when they occur.Finally, the Government of Canada is committed to the prevention and treatment of eye disease, and fully supports Canada’s public health system, which provides coverage for any vision care service that must be performed in a hospital.Private Member’s Bill C-284 will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-284, An Act to establish a national strategy for eye careNational Strategy for Eye CareVision health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01870441-01870 (Environment)RichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayNDPBCNovember 2, 2023December 12, 2023October 23, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned Canadians, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • the impacts of climate change are accelerating in Canada and around the world;
  • Canada has endorsed the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 °C in order to avoid the most disastrous effects of climate change, yet greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have failed to decline in Canada;
  • Canada's current GHG reduction targets are not consistent with doing our fair share to meet the global goals agreed upon in Paris to mitigate climate change;
  • our fossil fuel extraction industries are significant contributors to Canada's GHG emissions;
  • subsidizing fossil fuel production, export and expansion, including new pipelines, are not compatible with the stated goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and
  • the government's continued support of the fossil fuel industry, in spite of scientific evidence of the cumulative damage of emissions, puts our future in danger.
THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to take urgent cooperative action to fulfill Canada's obligations under the Paris Agreement, through:
  • a just transition off of fossil fuel that leaves no-one behind;
  • eliminating federal fossil fuel subsidies; and
  • halting the expansion of fossil fuel production in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTIn 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45 per cent below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Act also holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets, based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada published the first Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target as a concrete milestone that improves transparency and accountability on the way to net-zero. The 2030 ERP includes a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, $9.1 billion in new investments, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Achieving further emissions reductions, in line with Canada’s 2030 and 2050 commitments, will require significant and ongoing effort. The Government of Canada is optimistic that, together, Canadians can achieve real and lasting emission reductions, while sharing and exporting our climate solutions to the world and supporting the workers and communities affected by the global transition towards a low-carbon future.Looking forward, the transition to a cleaner future will bring new, dynamic opportunities across our labour force. To put workers across Canada at the forefront of building a net-zero emissions economy, the Government of Canada is committed to help Canadians have the skills they need to succeed and to enable the economy to have the workers it needs to thrive. Building on Budget 2021 investments in skills development, including through the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program, Skills for Success, and the Apprenticeship Service, the Government is proposing to invest $250 million to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy through the 2022 Fall Economic Statement.On July 24, 2023, the Government of Canada released the Inefficient Fossil Fuel Subsidies Government of Canada Self-Review Assessment Framework and the Inefficient Fossil Fuel Subsidies Government of Canada Guidelines, which were jointly developed by Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Department of Finance Canada. The Guidelines apply to all federal departments and agencies.The Framework and Guidelines fulfill our domestic, G7 and G20 commitments to phase out and rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. Canada is the first country to release a rigorous analytical guide that both fulfills this commitment and transparently supports action. The Guidelines will be used to prevent the creation of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies in the future.     
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous low-carbon economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reduction targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the generational economic opportunities that a net zero emissions future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonization technology in the conventional energy sector.Budget 2023 makes transformative investments to build Canada’s clean economy, fight climate change, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and Canadian workers. This includes significant measures that will deliver cleaner and more affordable energy, support investment in our communities and the creation of good-paying, high-quality jobs, and ensure Canadian workers are able to produce and provide the goods and resources that Canadians and our global partners need. These investments are underpinned by a set of clear and predictable investment tax credits, low-cost strategic financing, and targeted investments and programming, where necessary, to respond to the unique needs of sectors or projects of national economic significance. Since 2016, the federal government has committed over $120 billion to clean growth and emissions reduction measures, including over $80 billion in investment tax credits.Canada also joined other countries at COP26 in committing to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. On December 8, 2022, the Government released policy guidelines that lay the foundation for federal departments and agencies to put in place the measures that deliver on Canada’s commitment at COP26. By ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada will ensure its investments abroad are aligned with its domestic and international climate goals, which means investing in clean energy and renewables.In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated the timeline to do so this year. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also announced in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan that it will cap and cut emissions from the oil and gas sector. This commitment was reiterated and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.With a highly skilled and educated workforce, and with the abundant natural resources and energy sources critical for a net-zero future, Canada is uniquely positioned to benefit from a low-carbon economy. The Government is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero emissions future.  The interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, released in February 2023, lays out a comprehensive approach as part of Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth.This plan, drafted in consultation with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society, outlines the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, renewable energy, low-carbon building products, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and small modular reactors, Canada has a major opportunity to build a net-zero future that works for everyone. There are also significant opportunities for sustainable jobs in conventional energy industries that are working to lower their emissions in line with Canada’s climate policy, enabling producers to be low-emissions suppliers of products to a world rapidly shifting to a net-zero economy.Recognizing the importance of helping Canadians access job training for the net-zero future, the Government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including for sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers transition to and take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced funding to establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, among other things.As committed to in the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, the Government introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, in June 2023. The legislation proposes establishing a federal governance, engagement, and accountability framework to advance economic prosperity and ensure workers benefit from the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. The bill would also require the Government to:
  • establish a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide independent advice to Government on sustainable jobs measures;
  • create a Secretariat to lead the Government’s sustainable jobs approach; and
  • release a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years beginning in 2025.
These legislated mechanisms would guide and organize efforts to support workers and communities as Canada shifts to a low-carbon economy, ensuring equitable, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth across the country.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables (Regional Tables) are a key initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables are helping to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, in collaboration with Indigenous partners, and with the input of experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for implementing joint strategies to leverage energy and resource opportunities to realize each region of Canada’s comparative advantage in a net-zero emissions economy.To date, the federal government has jointly launched nine Regional Tables across the country, with British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and the four Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador) as well as the Northwest Territories and Yukon. Most recently, the Government of Canada and British Columbia, in collaboration with First Nation partners, released the foundational British Columbia Regional Energy and Resource Table Collaboration Framework, which sets the stage for a shared longer-term vision. On the other side of the country, plans for a similar framework with Newfoundland and Labrador and Ontario are not far behind.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a low-carbon world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Environmental protectionFossil fuelsParis Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01809441-01809 (Health)MelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapConservativeBCOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023September 26, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada and the Minister of HealthWhereas: Health Canada is proposing to significantly change natural health product (NHPs) regulations; We rely on NHPS, which include basic everyday products such as supplements, toothpaste, vitamins, probiotics, and mineral SPF, as part of our proactive healthcare;If we don't act immediately, consumer prices will rise significantly, and consumer choice will decline drastically, when inflation is at an all-time high and access to healthcare is at an all-time low;Health Canada recently proposed new and significant fees to import, manufacture, and sell NHPs at the same time they are implementing new labelling laws;This is unfair, unrealistic, and so costly to industry that it will force many small to medium-sized businesses to shut down Canadian operations;The burden of these costs for those that can afford the changes will be passed down to the consumer, and these are not changes or fees Canadians can afford;Increasing fees and additional labelling does not promote safety for taking NHPs, it makes products more expensive; andIn fact, this overregulation will force consumers to seek out products online which could lead people purchasing non-compliant, unregulated NHPs from outside of Canada.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Health to work with the industry to embrace modern labelling and adjust Health Canada's proposed cost recovery rates to accurately reflect the size and scope of the industry; and that new regulatory changes should only be implemented once the Self-Care Framework is adjusted and backlogs are cleared, operations run efficiently, and there are policies and procedures in place to ensure the stable operations continue.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandHealth Canada recognizes that natural health products (NHPs) are important to Canadians to help support and maintain their health and is committed to supporting access to natural health products that are safe and of high quality.While NHPs are generally lower risk products, that does not mean they are without risk, especially if products are contaminated, or used improperly.In 2021, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development completed an audit of Health Canada’s NHP program and found both strengths and areas for improvement. Health Canada committed to undertaking a number of initiatives to improve the oversight of these products.In an effort to make natural health products safer for consumers and support Canadians in making informed choices, Health Canada recently introduced two important regulatory and legislative changes:
  • In July 2022, after extensive consultation and feedback from stakeholders, Health Canada introduced new regulatory requirements to make natural health product labels easier for Canadians to read and understand. This includes, for example, increased font size and improved colour contrast.
  • In June 2023, Parliament passed legislation enabling Health Canada to take more action if a serious risk to health is identified with a natural health product. This legislation allows Health Canada to order recalls or add warnings to labels, if necessary, which the Department could not do before.
Presently, NHPs are the only line of health products where the regulatory activities are fully funded by Canadian taxpayers.Health Canada knows that many NHP companies are small businesses and is committed to supporting them. The Department is considering measures to help alleviate the impact of fees on businesses.  This includes fee reductions of 25% to 50% and a full waiver of pre-market evaluation fees for small businesses marketing their first product.Health Canada is actively reviewing thousands of comments received on its fee proposal, including those relating to the proposed fee reductions for small businesses, as part of an open and transparent consultation process with Canadians and businesses. At this time,  Health Canada is considering how best to adjust the  proposed approach to address concerns raised prior to further engagement with stakeholders.Ultimately, this initiative is about ensuring Canadians have access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality, while supporting small businesses through this process.
Natural health products
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2023441-01770441-01770 (Environment)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONOctober 18, 2023December 1, 2023September 15, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS: Enbridge Line 5 has been operating for 70 years, over which time it has repeatedly spilled oil in Wisconsin and Michigan, and helped turn Sarnia, Ontario into the most polluted place in North America;Continued operation of this decrepit tar sands pipeline is posing an imminent threat to the Bad River and Lake Superior, with rapid erosion at a meander bringing the River frighteningly close to the pipeline;A pipeline rupture at this location would destroy the Kakagon and Bad River Sloughs, home of wild rice beds, the physical, cultural, and spiritual foundation of the Lake Superior Chippewa peoples;Continued operation of Line 5 would further degrade the global climate; and the biodiversity, ecosystems, and cultures of the Great Lakes watershed; and gravely threaten 21% of the world's freshwater and the drinking water of 40 million people;Enbridge no longer has legal permission to operate Line 5 in the Bad River Reservation or Straits of Mackinac, since the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and State of Michigan revoked their easements in 2013 and 2020, respectively;The Bay Mills Indian Community issued a "Banishment of Enbridge Energy, Inc. Line 5 Dual Pipelines from the 1836 Treaty of Washington Ceded Territory, Waters of the Great Lakes, and the Straits of Mackinac";The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues has called for decommissioning Line 5;The Agreement between the Government of Canada and the Government of the United States of America Concerning Transit Pipelines (henceforth "the 1977 Agreement") provides for environmental protection against pipelines;Treaties with the US authorize the Lake Superior Chippewa to prevent the re-routing and elongation of Line 5 in Wisconsin, and tunnel for Line 5 in Michigan, that Enbridge has proposed;The International Energy Agency and Secretary General of the United Nations oppose construction of any new fossil fuel infrastructure, such as the aforementioned re-routing, elongation, and tunnel;The Government of Canada did not acknowledge any of the facts stated above when invoking the Agreement on October 4th, 2021 and again on August 29th, 2022 to keep Line 5 in operation; andNearly 300 organizations and more than 5,000 individuals have signed a letter calling on government ministers to stop invoking the Agreement in this way.WE, THE UNDERSIGNED residents of Canada, CALL UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA TO retract any and all use of the 1977 Agreement to keep Enbridge Line 5 in operation.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Pam DanoffClimate change is an undeniable reality. That’s why the Government of Canada introduced Canada’s most comprehensive climate plan, making historic investments to build job-creating clean energy projects, and implementing a price on pollution which returns all proceeds to Canadians while significantly cutting pollution across the country. More than ever, the Government is firmly committed to ensuring Canada’s energy and economic security, while taking important steps to fight climate change and protect the environment for future generations.Canada has invoked the dispute settlement mechanism of the 1977 Transit Pipelines Treaty (the “Treaty”) twice concerning Line 5, first on October 4, 2021 on the pipeline segment in the Straits of Mackinac (Michigan), and again on August 29, 2022 on the pipeline segment on the Bad River Band Reservation (Wisconsin). This treaty ensures the uninterrupted transmission of hydrocarbons in transit—in the case of Line 5, light crude oil and natural gas liquids—from one place in Canada to another place in Canada, transiting through the United States.Line 5 not only helps provide energy that is essential for empowering a resilient Canadian economy, it also supplies energy to business owners and residents in the Midwestern United States, including Wisconsin. Canada and the United States share a vision for a sustainable and inclusive economic growth that strengthens the middle class, creates more opportunities for them, and ensures people have good jobs and careers on both sides of the border. Both Canadians and Americans expect their governments to strengthen Canada-U.S. supply chain security and work to reinforce this deeply interconnected and mutually beneficial economic relationship.The economic and energy disruption and damage to Canada and the U.S. from a Line 5 shutdown would be widespread and significant:
  • Line 5 is a key west-to-east outlet for Alberta and Saskatchewan production of light crude oil and natural gas liquids.
  • Line 5 supplies six refineries in Ontario and Quebec, including the refinery and petrochemical complex in Sarnia. In the U.S., Line 5 supplies four refineries in Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania. A 2021 third-party study of impacts in the U.S. Midwest indicated a shutdown would threaten more than 33,000 U.S. jobs and jeopardize US$20 billion in economic activity.
  • Line 5 also supplies three propane production facilities, in Wisconsin, Michigan and Sarnia (Ontario), which supply critical rural and agricultural needs in the Great Lakes region, on both sides of the border.
  • A Line 5 shutdown would also impact energy prices, such as propane for heating homes and the price of gas at the pump. As global market forces and inflation continue to hit Canadians, the Government must avoid putting additional pressure on the monthly budgets of Canadian families.
  • Furthermore, such a closure would directly impact the energy security of both Canada and the United States. At a time of heightened concern over energy security and supply, including during the energy transition, maintaining and protecting existing infrastructure should be a top priority. Canada has raised these concerns with the U.S. on numerous occasions.
Canada is committed to the process of reconciliation and protecting the rights of Indigenous peoples in Canada, including as recognized in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This includes respecting the rights of the Bad River Band, such as in relation to governance of its Reservation.Alongside many U.S.-based local, state, and national organizations, Canada strongly supports the proposed replacement infrastructure solution, which would re-route Line 5 outside the Bad River Band Reservation and is currently undergoing state and federal permitting review.In the case of the Line 5 segment in the Straits of Mackinac, Canada, along with many U.S.-based partners, supports the Great Lakes Tunnel Project. This solution, also undergoing state and federal permitting reviews, will replace the existing Line 5 segment in the Straits by placing it within a tunnel under the Straits.These infrastructure solutions will keep Line 5 operating, further protect the environment including the iconic waters of the Great Lakes, meet critical energy needs in both Canada and the U.S. as we fight climate change and build net-zero economies, while responding to concerns expressed by Indigenous peoples, and fulfilling the Bad River Band’s desire to remove the pipeline segment from its Reservation.
Environmental protectionOil and gasPipeline transportation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01671441-01671 (Citizenship and immigration)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023September 15, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • An increasing number of small and rural businesses in Lillooet and surrounding areas have had to significantly reduce their services or shut down their doors altogether due to labour shortages;
  • Statistics Canada found that job vacancies surged to an overwhelming one million vacancies, nation-wide last year;
  • Farms greatly benefit annually from the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program to address labour shortages that are both cyclical and industry specific; so too can the hospitality and tourism sectors greatly benefit from a program to fill the gaps in labour needs; and
  • Rural communities, such as Lillooet, B.C., quickly reach capacity due to staffing shortages.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call the Government of Canada to expand the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Project to include Lillooet to address severe labour shortages, boost faltering local economic development, and help communities thrive.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Paul Chiang, M.P.The Government of Canada is committed to attracting the best talent from around the world to fill skill shortages and drive local economies in rural Canada, for the benefit of all Canadians.Testing a new community-based economic development approach, the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is a Ministerial Instructions (MI) pilot that supports smaller and more remote communities to access the economic and demographic benefits of immigration. These pilots are designed to test innovative approaches to meet specific needs, provide learnings to help shape future immigration programs and policies, and are typically issued for limited periods of time.RNIP communities were selected at the outset of the pilot through an expression of interest process, open to all communities across Canada and that looked into characteristics such as economic vitality and growing economy, economic development plans, support from local stakeholders, existing infrastructure, and settlement and integration capacity. The 11 selected communities required extensive training and onboarding support at the beginning of the pilot.Given the above, and that the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act sets a limit of five years on pilots, there are no plans to add additional communities to the pilot at this point.Recognizing that the pilot is set to expire in August 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is reviewing the performance of the RNIP to assess whether it is meeting its objectives of attracting and retaining newcomers to participating communities to support local economic development.The Government of Canada remains focused on supporting immigration strategies that spread the benefits of immigration to communities across the country, including rural and northern communities, to grow their economies and enhance their social and demographic vitality. Specifically, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) provides provinces and territories, including British Columbia, a means to address their local economic development needs and distributes the benefits of immigration across Canada. The PNP has skilled worker and international graduate streams to fill labour needs at all skill levels and has been proven to be an invaluable tool in filling labour market needs in communities of all sizes.
Immigration and immigrantsLillooetRural and Northern Immigration Pilot
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01948441-01948 (Democratic process)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONNovember 22, 2023January 29, 2024September 15, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:1. The record-low voter turnout of 43% in the last Ontario election demonstrates a trend of increasing voter disengagement;2. The distorted results from the most recent federal election clearly illustrate the need for electoral reform;3. Polls consistently show that a majority of voters in every province, all age groups and all major political parties support the principle of proportional representation;4. Citizens' Assemblies have considerable legitimacy and public trust because they are non-partisan, truly randomly-selected, representative bodies of citizens with no vested interest in the outcome;5. Citizens' Assemblies allow for more nuanced public deliberation than simple yes/no referenda, and are immune from manipulation by disinformation campaigns;6. Citizens' Assemblies have been used successfully in Canada, Australia, Belgium, France, Ireland, Scotland and the U.K. to tackle difficult issues; and7. A Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform would give citizens a leadership role in building consensus on a specific model for electoral reform for Canada, and would need to be established as soon as possible to enable their recommendations to be adopted before the next federal election.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Establish a Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform, consisting of randomly-selected citizens and reflecting the diversity of Canadian society;
  • Mandate the Citizens' Assembly to craft a specific, detailed design for an electoral system tailored to Canada's needs and which makes every vote count, and to complete its work within 12 months; and
  • Collaborate across party lines to table and pass legislation to enact the changes recommended by the Assembly, well before the next federal election.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELLThe Government of Canada is committed to strengthening Canada’s democratic institutions. Our electoral system (i.e., the fundamental rules determining how votes are translated into seats in the House of Commons) is one of the most foundational pieces of our democracy. Among many things it provides Canadians with a direct connection to their Members of Parliament (MP), who must work with each other in developing national policy and making political decisions, while engaging and remaining accountable to their constituents in an increasingly digital and connected Canada.The first-past-the-post system is not perfect – no system is – but it has served Canada well for over 150 years and continues to advance the democratic values that Canadians want reflected in their system of government. This includes strong local representation, stability, and accountability. How Canadians vote and how we govern ourselves is fundamentally important and impacts us all. Given this, the Government’s view has been very clear – any major reforms to the electoral system should not be made without the broad support of Canadians.However, there are a number of ways in which the Government continues to seek to improve Canada’s federal electoral process. Notably, in 2018, the Government introduced the Elections Modernization Act, which represented a significant reform of the Canada Elections Act, which modernized the electoral process, making it easier for Canadians to participate in elections and further bolstering Canadians’ trust and confidence in Canada’s world class electoral system. The Government will continue to look for opportunities to consider improvements to Canada’s electoral system as it has always done, ensuring continuous improvement within an already robust system. In a healthy democracy, there is always more work to do, but Canadians have many reasons to be proud of their electoral system. The Government of Canada will continue to work to strengthen and protect our democratic practices and institutions to ensure they uphold Canadian values.
Electoral reformNational Citizens' Assembly on Electoral ReformPublic consultation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01639441-01639 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBSeptember 20, 2023November 3, 2023June 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action. 
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 22, 2024441-02263441-02263 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 22, 2024May 31, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • There are no laws that require makers, distributers or advertisers of commercial pornographic material to ascertain and document the consent and age of those depicted in the material;
  • Recommendation #2 from the 2021 Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Report on MindGeek states: "That the Government of Canada mandate that contenthosting platforms operating in Canada require affirmation from all persons depicted in pornographic content, before it can be uploaded, that they are 18 years old or older and that they consent to its distribution";
  • Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act adds two offences to the Criminal Code: to create pornographic material for a commercial purpose without verifying the age and consent of the individuals shown, and to distribute pornographic material without verifying the age and consent of those depicted and also removing material if in writing, consent has been withdrawn; and
  • Organizations including Defend Dignity, the National Council of Women of Canada, London Abused Women's Shelter, Montreal Council of Women, Parents Aware and the National Centre on Child Exploitation have all expressed support for Bill C-270.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to swiftly adopt Bill C-270, The Stopping Internet Exploitation Act.
C-270, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (pornographic material)ConsentLegal agePornography
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01510441-01510 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 5, 2023August 16, 2023May 26, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and international engagement.Canada is strongly committed to working with governments, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations, to promote inclusive and accountable governance around the world. Canada is consistently a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values.Canada’s leadership in the fight against arbitrary detention demonstrates its steadfast commitment to upholding universal human rights and the rules-based international order.The Government of Canada maintains an active and open dialogue with the Turkish, Pakistani and Bahraini Governments concerning human rights, as part of Canada’s commitment to promote democracy and uphold human rights and the rule of law globally.Global Affairs Canada officials met with the Turkish families that reported of their arrest in Pakistan and Bahrain and eventual detention in Türkiye, before moving to Canada. Global Affairs Canada officials have also received a submission from these families, requesting sanctions against specific Turkish officials in relation to their previous detention in Türkiye.Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order – sanctions are a key component of this approach. We also consider the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security, combatting corruption, and promoting respect for norms and values, including human rights. Canada carefully considers the bilateral consequences that any sanction measures could have. To that end, Global Affairs Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Wherever possible, Canada coordinates closely with likeminded allies, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, to maximize the effectiveness of sanctions.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02030441-02030 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024April 3, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Ms. Chow, Hang Tung, a vice chairwoman of the Hong Kong Alliance, has been committed to advocacy work on human rights issues in China and Hong Kong for many years and has diligently fought for democracy and encouraged Hongkongers to participate in the pro-democracy social movement;Ms. Chow was arrested on June 4th, 2021, charged with incitement to subversion under the National Security Law on Sept. 9th, 2021, and sentenced to jail for 22 months on Jan. 4th, 2022, as part of an effort to crush dissent in Hong Kong; andMs. Chow was awarded the Outstanding Democracy Award by the Chinese Democracy Education Foundation (CDEF) on Dec 4th, 2021, formally recognizing her admirable commitment to human rights and the pro-democracy movement.Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to urge the Hong Kong Government to drop all charges against, and immediately release from custody, Ms. Chow, Hang Tung.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada remains deeply concerned about the 291 people arrested for suspected breaches of the National Security Law (NSL) imposed by Beijing in 2020, including Ms. Chow Hang-tung (Vice-Chairwoman of The Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements in China).Canada strongly supports the rights of political opposition, civil society, and human rights defenders everywhere to operate in an environment free from intimidation and harassment by state authorities. Canada is well aware that the NSL has significantly eroded rights and freedoms, silenced political opposition, and undermined the independence of public institutions as promised under the Sino-British Joint Declaration (1984). The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has also expressed serious concerns over the NSL. The 2022 UN Human Rights Committee’s fourth periodic human rights report on Hong Kong stated that the law violates Hong Kong’s commitments made under the International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights and called for repealing the law. Furthermore, four UN Special Rapporteurs (Special Rapporteurs on the independence of judges and lawyers;  on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism; on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association; and, on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression) jointly published a statement in October 2023 to express their concerns about the use of mass trials in NSL cases and how it may negatively affect the safeguards in place that ensure due process and the right to a fair trial.Since the imposition of the NSL, Canada has taken concrete actions such as suspending its extradition agreement with Hong Kong, imposing export control measures, updating travel advice, and issuing a travel advisory for Hong Kong, and launching new immigration measures for Hong Kong residents. Canada is also aware that the human rights situation continues to deteriorate despite our advocacy and broader efforts. With this overall situation in mind, during China’s Universal Period Review (UPR) of its human rights record in January 2024 at the UN Human Rights Council, Canada called on China to repeal the NSL and discontinue all cases against individuals in Hong Kong charged for exercising their human rights and freedoms, which includes that of Ms. Chow Hang-tung.Moving forward, Canada will continue to express its concern over the continued erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy and rights through individual and joint efforts with like-minded countries, and monitoring all trials related to NSL charges.
ChinaHong KongPolitical prisoners
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01749441-01749 (Consumer protection)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBOctober 6, 2023November 20, 2023April 25, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, residents of the Province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is reporting a rise in money laundering and fraud with the set-up of synthetic or false bank accounts where money is being sent from duped seniors' savings accounts and potentially going towards terrorist financing;The Government of BC estimates that $46.7 billion was laundered through the Canadian economy in 2018;FINTRAC (Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada) states requirements are not sufficient to prevent fraudsters from moving money illegally under the pretense of legitimacy through the wire transfer system in Canada;Our growing retiree population in Canada are increasingly becoming the target of fraud given they have built up wealth over a lifetime to help them support their retirement years and are vulnerable due to lack of controls and protection through the transmission of money within the Canadian banking system; andSeniors are seeing their savings built up over years removed due to the sophistication and disguised deceit and trickery foisted on them by professional fraudsters to exploit them and the current Canadian banking system.We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to undertake a serious and comprehensive review of the current transit system of Canadian citizens' money in this country with the aim of putting more stringent procedures, protocols, and safeguards in place to protect seniors in particular from losing their lifetime savings and wealth to fraud.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada is committed to a strong and comprehensive Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing (AML/ATF) Regime. The government continually reviews the Regime to ensure that it is responsive to evolving risks. Since 2019, the government has made investments of over $319.9 million and a number of legislative and regulatory changes to enhance the effectiveness of the Regime.Budget 2023 made legislative amendments to strengthen the investigative, enforcement, and information sharing tools of Canada’s AML/ATF Regime. These amendments complement the government’s Budget 2022 commitment to establish a new Canada Financial Crimes Agency to become the lead enforcement agency against financial crime.On June 6, 2023, a public consultation was launched that will examine ways to improve Canada's AML/ATF Regime, as well as examine how different orders of government can collaborate more closely. This consultation will support the parliamentary review required under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. Details of these consultations can be found here: Consultation on Strengthening Canada's Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing Regime - Canada.ca.Illicit funds laundered by criminal actors are often generated illegally through fraud, including fraud that targets seniors. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting Canadians from these types of crimes. One major way it does so is through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, which is the central repository for fraud information and intelligence in Canada, and is jointly operated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police and the Competition Bureau of Canada. As a National Police Service function, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre gathers intelligence on fraud affecting Canadians, and assists all law enforcement agencies across Canada with fraud prevention and enforcement.The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has a Senior Support Unit entirely supported by volunteers who are dedicated to reducing the impact of fraud across Canada. The Senior Support Unit is a critical component of the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, providing advice, education and reassurance to vulnerable Canadians targeted by fraudsters. The Senior Support Unit receives reports referred by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s Intake Unit, after identifying that further assistance for a senior or vulnerable individual is needed.
Banks and bankinge-SecuritySenior citizens
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01272441-01272 (Health)BlakeDesjarlaisEdmonton GriesbachNDPABMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023March 20, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada Whereas:Opioid crisis is one of the most deadly public health emergencies of our lifetime, with approximately 21 deaths every day and an overall death toll of 30,843 in the past six and one quarter years (January 2016 to March 2022); andThe overdose crisis rages.We, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency and:Take steps to end overdose deaths and overdose injuries;Immediately collaborate with provinces and territories to develop a comprehensive, pan-Canadian overdose action plan;Ensure that any plan considers reforms that other countries have used, such as legal regulation of drugs to ensure safe supply, decriminalization for personal use, and changes to flawed drug policy and policing; andEnsure this emergency is taken seriously with adequately funded programming and supports.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe toxic drug and overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the crisis has only become more complex due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience (PWLLE), to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis as a health issue and is working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives. Provinces and territories have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. For example, provinces and territories fund and deliver the majority of direct social and health interventions, such as naloxone distribution and supervised consumption sites, which are shown to effectively reduce overdoses deaths and harms. Provinces, territories and municipalities also have the power to declare a public health emergency in response to a significant increase in overdose-related deaths, as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta declaring a public health crisis in May 2017. More recently, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency in January 2022. The declaration of a provincial and territorial public health emergency allows a provincial and territorial government to access and exercise extraordinary powers to address a crisis. In addition to provincial and territorial emergency declarations, some First Nations communities have also declared emergencies in response to rising substance use-related harms and deaths, including Ehattesaht First Nation in British Columbia, and O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation in Manitoba.The Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving opioid-related deaths and harms. At the federal level, we have taken action by: reducing legislative and regulatory barriers; developing new prescription guidelines and marketing restrictions; launching a public awareness campaign; improving the knowledge base; supporting treatment, safer supply and harm reduction initiatives across Canada; working with domestic and international partners to reduce the illegal drug supply; and, providing emergency funding to provinces and territories.The Government of Canada recognizes that substance use is a public health issue, not an issue for the criminal justice system. We are committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant actions and made commitments of more than $800 million to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • Nearly $350 million to the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) between 2017-2022 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services; and,
  • $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction.
Budget 2023 proposes to provide a total of $359.2 $1.3 million in remaining amortization to support a renewed Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, which would guide the government's work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians. This includes:
  • $144 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Health Canada for the SUAP to fund community-based supports, including safer supply, supervised consumption sites, and other evidence-based health interventions;
  • $20.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada for a new community-based program to prevent substance use among young people; 
  • $73.9 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $4.6 million ongoing, to Health Canada to streamline authorizations for supervised consumption sites and drug checking services, scale-up access to safer supply, and evaluate innovative approaches;
  • $50.8 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $1.1 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to Health Canada; and $16 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada to support vital data collection on substance-related harms and lab-based analysis of the illegal drug supply;
  • $4.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Safety Canada to develop an overdose monitoring app for paramedics and other first responders; and,
  • $42 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police; $6.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Services and Procurement Canada; and $1.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, sourced from existing resources, to Global Affairs Canada to take further action to work with our partners to tackle drug trafficking and stem the global flow of these devastating substances.
Of note, under SUAP, more than $24 million has been allocated to fund Naloxone distribution, education and training. In addition, through SUAP, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches for greater access to pharmaceutical-grade alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of April 2023, Health Canada has supported 31 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through the SUAP representing total funding commitments of over $100 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects, and a National Safer Supply Community of Practice to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.Health Canada has supported the rapid expansion of supervised consumption services across Canada. Since January 2016, the number of federally approved supervised consumption sites (SCS) offering services grew from 1 to 40. Health Canada also proactively issued exemptions that allows provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing supervised consumption sites, shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Urgent Public Health Need Sites, unlike supervised consumption sites, are temporary locations that can be set up rapidly to address the overdose crisis. Both share the goal of reducing overdose deaths.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment and safer supply programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder; as well facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and  
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
The Government recognizes that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments to ensure that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.The Government of Canada is also working closely with provinces and territories to change the way our healthcare system delivers mental health and substance use services to Canadians. It is important for Canadians to have timely access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, quality mental health and substance use services that meet their needs, including underserved and equity-deserving individuals. That is why, on February 7, 2023, the Prime Minister announced that the federal government will invest $198.6 billion over ten years to bolster the health care system, notably: top-ups to the Canada Health Transfer to address immediate health care pressures; and $25 billion over 10 years to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements.In response to substance use harms and the opioid overdose crisis, the Government of Canada is regularly consulting with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. The Government regularly engages with PWLLE and organizations that represent them, including; regular bi-lateral meetings with key organizations; participation on projects teams; facilitating PWLLE engagement in government and ministerial events and meaningful consultations in order to better understand their perspectives of substance use; and, on-the- ground realities (e.g., roundtables, Knowledge Exchange Series, etc.).Health Canada established the PWLLE Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners.The Government of Canada continues collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, stakeholders and partners such as community-based organizations to reduce the harms associated with substance use and providing people with the culturally appropriate and trauma-informed support they need.Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of personal drug possession can, increase risks of overdose and other harms, increase barriers to care and perpetuate stigma. Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments encourage police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to reflect the Government’s public-health-focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada directing prosecutors that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for the personal possession of drugs, except where public safety concerns arise.In May 2022, at the request of the Province of British Columbia, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health granted a time-limited exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, where appropriate, individuals may be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they could also receive assistance to connect with those services. British Columbia requested this exemption, and it is an additional way that the federal government is supporting the province’s comprehensive approach to the overdose crisis. This time-limited exemption will be supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes. The results will help inform Canada’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance use harms. We have also received a request from Toronto Public Health, and we are working in close partnership to ensure both public health and public safety considerations are included. We will continue to work with willing jurisdictions to use all the tools at our disposal, including approaches related to decriminalization, to respond to this crisis.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
Drug use and abuseHealth emergenciesOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01264441-01264 (Justice)RandyHobackPrince AlbertConservativeSKMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023February 17, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA:Whereas: There are serious concerns regarding the federal government's medical assistance in dying (MAID) legislation;The heads of Psychiatry of all of Canada's 17 medical schools have called for a delay to this legislation; andThe federal government has failed to live up to its promise to fund a Canada Mental Health Transfer, leaving Canadians struggling with mental illness behind.Therefore: We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to delay its expansion of medial assistance in dying (MAID).
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam Van KoeverdenMedical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal issue. The Government of Canada recognizes and respects the diverse views on whether MAID should be permitted for persons suffering solely from a mental illness. The safety and security of the most vulnerable Canadians remains at the forefront of our actions as we take a careful and considered approach on the implementation of MAID for persons living with a mental disorder.On March 9, 2023, through the passing of Bill C-39, the Government extended the temporary exclusion of eligibility for MAID for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness until March 17, 2024. This extension will allow more time for:
  • Consideration of any recommendations arising from the Special Joint Committee on MAID’s final report, tabled in February 2023, alongside the recommendations of the Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness; and,
  • Dissemination and uptake of key resources, such as the Model MAID Practice Standard (released March 27, 2023) and a nationally accredited MAID curriculum, by the medical, nursing, and health provider communities.
We believe that a one-year extension, until March 17, 2024, will provide sufficient time to ensure health system readiness, to disseminate and promote uptake of key resources by the medical and nursing communities, and to fully consider the recommendations in the Special Joint Committee on MAID’s final report. It is imperative that MAID assessors and providers be ready to assess requests for MAID for persons suffering solely from a mental illness in a safe and consistent manner across Canada by the time the extension is over.Health Canada, provinces and territories, and other stakeholders have already made significant progress to prepare for eligibility for MAID for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness.On March 27, 2023, a Task Group of experts convened by Health Canada (chaired by Dr. Mona Gupta, former Chair of the Expert Panel) released a Model Practice Standard for MAID. The Practice Standard will help clinicians align their practice with clear guidance and will assist regulators to ensure the protection of the public in the context of more complex cases. Ultimately, this will help ensure MAID practice in Canada operates in a consistent and safe manner across the country.In addition, the Canadian Association of MAID Assessors and Providers is developing and implementing an accredited Canadian MAID curriculum to support clinician education and training, and to address various topics related to the assessment and provision of MAID, including mental disorders and other complex chronic conditions. The curriculum will consist of seven modules. A rolling launch of modules will begin in the late summer of 2023, including a module on MAID and Mental Disorders, with the aim for all modules to be available by the end of 2023.The Model MAID Practice Standard and its supporting documents, along with the MAID training curriculum, will provide valuable resources for regulators and practitioners in interpreting and applying the legislative framework safely in different clinical situations.Supporting the mental health and well-being of Canadians is a priority for the Government of Canada.Through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, older adults, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Black and other racialized Canadians. The Government is also providing $50 million to support projects that address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma in health care workers, front-line and other essential workers and others affected by the pandemic.Health Canada invested $130 million from 2020-22 in Wellness Together Canada, an online mental health and substance use support portal, and received $140 million in Budget 2022 to support the portal for two more years beginning in 2022-23. Launched in April 2020, Wellness Together Canada provides free and confidential online mental health and substance use supports accessible 24/7 to individuals across Canada in both official languages.Through the Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is investing $4.9 million annually in community based mental health promotion projects that focus on reducing systemic barriers. The MHP-IF encourages mental health and well-being during the early years of life by promoting protective factors and addressing the underlying determinants of mental health and health equity for children, youth, young adults, and their caregivers.Budget 2023 confirmed the Government’s commitment to invest close to $200 billion over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to improve health care for Canadians, including $25 billion to Provinces and Territories (PTs) via tailored bilateral agreements which will focus on four key priorities, including improving access to mental health and substance use services and the integration of these services in community family health services.   This investment will build on the Budget 2017 investments, which include $2.4 billion from 2023-24 to 2026-27 still available to PTs for mental health and addictions services.Budget 2023 committed $158.4 million over three years to support the implementation and operation of 988. The introduction of 988 will provide people across Canada with easy-to-remember access to immediate and safe support for suicide prevention and emotional distress. The creation of the 988 service in Canada builds on existing investments received through Budget 2019 for the Pan-Canadian Suicide Prevention Service, where PHAC received $25 million over five years, with $4.2 million per year ongoing. With this funding, the Centre for Addition and Mental Health (CAMH) currently operates Talk Suicide Canada. Talk Suicide Canada provides people across Canada with suicide prevention crisis support from trained responders via phone (24/7) at 1-833-456-4566 and text (evenings) to 45645. Residents of Québec can also call 1-866-277-3553, text 535353 or visit suicide.ca for support by text and online chat.Mental health remains a priority for the Government, and we will continue to invest in it and work with Provinces, Territories, and key stakeholders to support the needs of individuals and communities across the country, now and in the future.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01377441-01377 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023February 20, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01867441-01867 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCNovember 2, 2023January 29, 2024February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS: Canada has signed the Paris Agreement; andSignatories to the Paris Agreement are required to "to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels".We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to take bold climate action to ensure that Canada plays its part to avoid runaway climate change and that this action include:1. Setting ambitious targets to lower Canada's emissions in order for Canada to assist in the international goal of avoiding a 1.5°C global average temperature increase above pre-industrial levels; 2. Implementing a national price on carbon;3. Arresting the growth in oil sands expansion;4. Working with the provinces to phase out coal-fired electricity and ending thermal coal exports; and5. Investing in the transition to a prosperous, decarbonized economy.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe science is clear that accelerated efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, are necessary to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The economics are clear too – to build a strong, resilient economy for generations to come, we must harness the power of a cleaner future.The Government of Canada recognizes this reality, and since 2015 has taken significant, ambitious steps to reduce emissions, protect the environment, spur clean technologies and innovation, and help Canadians and communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.In 2016, the Government of Canada developed the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, in collaboration with provinces and territories, and with input from Indigenous peoples. Building on this national effort, the Government of Canada released its strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, in December 2020 to deepen emissions reductions across the economy, create new, well-paying jobs, make life more affordable for households, and build a better future.In 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (the Act) provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on these commitments. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Actalso holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Act,Canada published the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target, including a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Measures introduced by the Government of Canada since 2015 include:
  • Bringing into force the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act ensuring that every Canadian jurisdiction has a price on carbon. The price on carbon pollution started at $20 per tonne of emissions in 2019 – and has been rising at a predictable rate of $10 per year to reach $50 in 2022. Starting in 2023, the price will start rising by $15 per year until it reaches $170 per tonne in 2030;
  • Committing to accelerate our G20 commitment to eliminate inefficient fossil fuel subsidies from 2025 to 2023, and develop a plan to phase out public financing of the fossil fuel sector including by federal Crown corporations;
  • Accelerating the phase-out of coal-fired electricity generation, and positioning the oil and gas sector to cut pollution by working with stakeholders to implement a cap on oil and gas sector emissions;
  • Working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • Building Canada’s renewable electricity future by continuing to advance the Clean Electricity Standard to enable Canada to achieve at net-zero electricity grid by 2035, and making significant investments to support renewable electricity and grid modernization projects;
  • Helping to reduce energy costs for homes and buildings, and boosting climate resiliency;
  • Driving progress on clean cars and trucks through investments in zero-emission vehicles charging and refueling infrastructure, and the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program;
  • Establishing of the Canadian Centre for Climate Services which provides climate information and support to help Canadians consider climate change in their decisions, including health-related adaptation decisions via the collaborative climate information portal, ClimateData.ca; and,
  • Developing a climate lens to integrate climate considerations throughout Government of Canada decision-making.
The Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.   
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada recognizes that we cannot lose focus on the growing threat that climate change presents to the planet and to the health and livelihoods of all Canadians. In 2021, the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act enshrined in legislation the Government’s commitment to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The Act also establishes the 2030 greenhouse gas emissions target as Canada’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, which is currently an emissions reduction target of 40 to 45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030.As an early deliverable under this legislation, Canada released the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps to Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP) in March 2022. The plan is a sector-by-sector roadmap that lays out the measures Canada will take to reduce its emissions by at least 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, and puts in place the building blocks to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. It also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.The Government of Canada is helping to lead the energy transition by investing $120 billion since 2016 in climate action and clean growth. This includes substantial investments in clean energy, modern electricity grids and greater energy efficiency – all of which will drive economic prosperity and good jobs. Some of the government’s foundational investments include the $15 billion Canada Growth Fund to incentivize private sector projects and companies that will grow Canada’s clean economy; the $8 billion Net Zero Accelerator to secure large-scale investments in clean technologies; and the $4.2 billion Low Carbon Economy Fund to help provinces and territories, businesses, Indigenous communities, and other organizations install emission-reducing technologies.Budget 2023 laid out the next steps and key investments in Canada’s transition to a clean economy, securing Canada's competitive advantage. More specifically, the Budget proposed a suite of new investment tax credits for strategic industries such as clean electricity, clean technology manufacturing, and clean hydrogen, as well as enhancements to existing tax credits for areas such as clean technology and carbon capture, utilization and storage. In addition to these private sector incentives, Budget 2023 also announced that the Canada Infrastructure Bank will invest at least $20 billion to support the building of major clean electricity and clean growth infrastructure projects.To enhance long-term certainty, the Government has ensured it is no longer free to pollute anywhere in Canada by establishing a Pan-Canadian approach to pricing carbon pollution since 2019. With this approach we are fighting climate change by reducing emissions while putting more money in the pockets of Canadian families.The Government of Canada recognizes that reducing emissions from the oil and gas sector is necessary to mitigate the impacts of climate change. To support a sustainable transition to a net-zero economy by 2050 and contribute toward Canada’s 2030 emission reduction target, the Government committed to develop a cap on oil and gas sector emissions that is ambitious, yet achievable, and promotes investment in emissions reducing technologies while supporting the economic developments of regional economies. Canada has also committed to at least a 75% reduction in methane emissions from its oil and gas sector from 2012 levels by 2030. Many producers in Canada’s oil and gas sector, including the top oil sands producers, have also made their own net-zero commitments. Companies are actively investing in developing and deploying emissions reducing technologies, services, and products. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future and a stronger economy, poised to seize low-carbon opportunities.The Government of Canada has committed to achieve a net-zero electricity system by 2035 and, on August 10, 2023, introduced draft Clean Electricity Regulations to provide a clear regulatory signal toward that end (final regulations are expected in 2024). Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from electricity generation is essential to decarbonize the economy, and will enable reductions in other sectors, such as transportation and buildings. The Government of Canada is providing $4.5 billion until 2035 to the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program to support smart renewable energy and electric grid modernization projects, and $250 million to support pre-development activities for clean electricity projects of national significance such as inter-provincial electricity transmission projects and small modular reactors. The Government is also investing over $500 million to support projects that reduce reliance on diesel fuel, support renewables, increase energy efficiency, and build capacity in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities. Canada is operating from a strong starting point, as roughly 82% of our electricity already comes from non-emitting sources such as hydroelectricity, wind, solar, and nuclear power.In December 2018, Canada implemented regulations to accelerate the phase-out of conventional unabated coal-fired electricity generation by 2030.  Canada is also demonstrating international leadership on phasing out thermal coal. To advance the goals of the Paris Agreement, Canada is co-leading the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA), alongside the United Kingdom. With over 165 members, the PPCA is the world’s leading coalition of stakeholders seeking to accelerate clean growth and climate protection through the rapid phase-out of unabated coal power-generation. In addition, Canada announced at COP26 in November 2021 that it is working to end thermal coal exports from and through Canada by 2030. Canada would be the first country in the world to ban thermal coal exports on the basis of environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions.With a highly skilled and educated workforce, and with the abundant natural resources and energy sources critical for a net-zero future, Canada is uniquely positioned to benefit from a low-carbon economy. The Government is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero emissions future.  After two years of public consultations with a range of stakeholders, the Government of Canada released its interim Sustainable Jobs Plan for 2023-2025 in February 2023, outlining 10 key action areas where federal measures could help advance significant economic opportunities that create good jobs for Canadians across the country while driving prosperity and competitiveness on our way to net-zero emissions by 2050. In June 2023, the Government introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, which would establish a federal governance, engagement, and accountability framework to advance economic prosperity and ensure workers benefit from the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. If passed, the bill would require the Government to establish a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide independent advice to Government on sustainable jobs measures; to create a Secretariat to lead the Government’s sustainable jobs approach; and to release a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years beginning in 2025. These mechanisms will guide and organize efforts to support workers and communities as Canada shifts to a net-zero economy, ensuring equitable, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth across the country.Recognizing the importance of helping Canadians access job training for the net-zero future, the Government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including for sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers transition to and take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy. Amid this concerted action, the government also launched Regional Energy and Resource Tables to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, experts, labour organizations and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to delivering bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable François-Philippe ChampagneThe government is committed to helping to ensure that Canada is positioned to both deliver on its ambitious emissions reductions obligations under the Paris Agreement and to seize the opportunities presented by a growing net-zero global economy. These commitments are reflected in a range of federal measures, including over $100 billion in earmarked investments since 2016, aimed at driving down emissions and supporting long-term, inclusive economic growth that benefits all Canadians.A net-zero emissions world will only be attainable if Canada is able to develop, commercialize and deploy clean technologies on a large-scale. To that end, an array of federal programs are available to support clean technologies across the innovation spectrum.To incent more business investment in research and development (R&D) that will generate new and improved, globally competitive products, processes, and services, including those needed to reach net-zero, the government has approximately 41 clean technology funding programs spread across 19 government organizations.  These programs provide integrated support, including flexible funding, to help Canadian businesses across all sectors and regions become more innovative and productive.The Government of Canada is helping innovators manage and create value from their innovations through investments like the Innovation Asset Collective, an independent, membership-based not-for-profit that assist Canadian businesses in the data driven cleantech sector with their intellectual property needs.Canada’s plan for a clean economy rests on a foundation of market-driven approaches, namely carbon pricing and Clean Fuels Regulations. The carbon pricing system provides a clear economic signal to businesses and allows them the flexibility to find the most cost-effective way to lower their emissions. The system creates large-emitter credit markets, which Budget 2023 proposed to reinforce with other tools, such as contracts for difference. An anchor regime of five investment tax credits will attract investments in electricity, hydrogen, clean technology (including to attract investments in critical minerals, nuclear energy equipment, energy storage, and zero emissions vehicles) and carbon capture and storage and is complemented by strategic financing from the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) and the Canada Growth Fund and more targeted programming like the Strategic Innovation Fund and the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program.The Strategic Innovation Fund has contributed over $7.3 billion to 37 projects representing total investments of over $51 billion in the Canadian economy to support the transition to a prosperous decarbonized economy.The new $15 billion Canada Growth Fund offers a flexible suite of investment tools tailored to project- and company-specific needs and risks, with view to de-risk and attract private investment that will contribute to: (1) reducing emissions; (2) diversifying our economy and bolstering our exports through investments in the growth of low-carbon industries and technologies across both new and traditional sectors of Canada’s industrial base; and (3) supporting the restructuring of critical supply chains in areas important to Canada’s future prosperity.The Government of Canada is also fostering partnerships that will strengthen clean technology innovation and adoption. Canada’s Global Innovation Clusters is an initiative of Innovation Canada, with industry leadership and co-investment, aimed at building collaborative innovation ecosystems in key sectors. The Clusters aim to attract investment and talent to Canada, help Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises scale up and integrate into global value chains, build resilient supply chains, and fight climate change. SIF also delivers funding that supports national innovation ecosystems that promote business R&D, technology demonstration, and commercialization.Collectively, federal supports for clean technology and businesses complement one another, ensuring businesses have seamless access to support and financing for innovation, commercialization, scale-up and growth.Importantly, the Government of Canada also recognizes that workers must be at the heart of the country’s efforts to transition to net zero. Building on our government’s previous investments in jobs and skills training, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement introduced $250 million over five years for new measures to help Canadian workers thrive in a changing global economy, including a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre. Natural Resources Canada also released an interim Sustainable Jobs Plan to enable the creation of good, middle class jobs across Canada.Through continued engagement, partnerships, strategic policies, and thoughtful investments in clean technology businesses, large-scale decarbonization and workers across the country, the Government of Canada will continue advance its commitments to decarbonize and grow a resilient and prosperous economy, in which no worker or region has been left behind.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 23, 2023441-01123441-01123 (Health)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNDPBCFebruary 8, 2023March 23, 2023January 24, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas: The opioid crisis is one of the most deadly public health emergencies of our lifetime, with a death taking place on average every two hours and a death toll of 22,828 in the past five and one quarter years (January 2016 to March 2021); andThe overdose crisis rages.We, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency and:Take steps to end overdose deaths and overdose injuries Immediately collaborate with provinces and territories to develop a comprehensive, pan-Canadian overdose action plan Ensure that any plan considers reforms that other countries have used, such as legal regulation of drugs to ensure safe supply, decriminalization for personal use, and changes to flawed drug policy and policing; and Ensure this emergency is taken seriously with adequately funded programming and supports.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe toxic drug and overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the crisis has only become more complex due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience (PWLLE), to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis as a health issue and is working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives. Provinces and territories have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. For example, provinces and territories fund and deliver the majority of direct social and health interventions, such as naloxone distribution and supervised consumption sites, which are shown to effectively reduce overdoses deaths and harms. Provinces, territories and municipalities also have the power to declare a public health emergency in response to a significant increase in overdose-related deaths, as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta declaring a public health crisis in May 2017. More recently, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency in January 2022. The declaration of a provincial and territorial public health emergency allows a provincial and territorial government to access and exercise extraordinary powers to address a crisis.The Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving opioid-related deaths and harms. At the federal level, we have taken action by: reducing legislative and regulatory barriers; developing new prescription guidelines and marketing restrictions; launching a public awareness campaign; improving the knowledge base; supporting treatment, safer supply and harm reduction initiatives across Canada; working with domestic and international partners to reduce the illegal drug supply; and, providing emergency funding to provinces and territories.The Government of Canada recognizes that substance use is a public health issue, not an issue for the criminal justice system. We are committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada.  In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant actions and made commitments of more than $800 million to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • Nearly $350 million to the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) between 2017-2022 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services;
  • $45 million to develop national standards for mental health and substance use services, in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations and key stakeholders, to address long-standing challenges in the delivery of mental health and substance use services and supports across the country; and,
  • $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction.
Of note, under SUAP, more than $24 million has been allocated to fund Naloxone distribution, education and training. In addition, through SUAP, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches for greater access to pharmaceutical-grade alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of March 2023, Health Canada has supported 30 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through the Substance Use and Addictions Program, representing total funding commitments of over $88.3 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects, and a National Safer Supply Community of Practice to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.Health Canada has supported the rapid expansion of supervised consumption services across Canada. Since January 2016, the number of federally approved supervised consumption sites (SCS) offering services grew from 1 to 40. Health Canada also proactively issued exemptions that allows provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing supervised consumption sites, shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Urgent Public Health Need Sites, unlike supervised consumption sites, are temporary locations that can be set up rapidly to address the overdose crisis. Both share the goal of reducing overdose deaths.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment and safer supply programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder; as well facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and  
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
The Government recognizes that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments to ensure that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.In response to substance use harms and the opioid overdose crisis, the Government of Canada is regularly consulting with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. The Government regularly engages with people with lived and living experience and organizations that represent them, including; regular bi-lateral meetings with key organizations, participation on projects teams, facilitating PWLLE engagement in government and ministerial events and meaningful consultations in order to better understand their perspectives of substance use and on-the- ground realities (e.g., roundtables, Knowledge Exchange Series, etc.).Health Canada established the PWLLE Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners.The Government of Canada continues collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, stakeholders and partners such as community-based organizations to reduce the harms associated with substance use and providing people with the culturally appropriate and trauma-informed support they need.Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of illegal drugs for personal use can, increase risks of overdose and other harms, increase barriers to care and perpetuate stigma. Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments encourage police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to reflect the Government’s public-health-focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada directing prosecutors that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for the personal possession of drugs, except where public safety concerns arise.In May 2022, at the request of the Province of British Columbia, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health granted a time-limited exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, where appropriate, individuals may be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they could also receive assistance to connect with those services. British Columbia requested this exemption, and it is an additional way that the federal government is supporting the province’s comprehensive approach to the overdose crisis. This time-limited exemption will be supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes. The results will help inform Canada’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance use harms. We have also received a request from Toronto Public Health, and we are working in close partnership to ensure both public health and public safety considerations are included. We will continue to work with willing jurisdictions to use all the tools at our disposal, including approaches related to decriminalization, to respond to this crisis.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01641441-01641 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 20, 2023November 3, 2023December 20, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00872441-00872 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBNovember 24, 2022January 18, 2023October 31, 2022Petition to the House of Commons Whereas:1. The Canada Health Act provides a framework to insure Canada would have a world class health care system based on five fundamental principles;2. The five principles include public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility;3. Both the Federal and Provincial Governments have a responsibility to insure there is a sense of equity in fairness of services no matter where a person lives in Canada; and4. Extra attention should be given to issues like mental health, cancer care, long term care, recognizing immigrant healthcare workers and ways to improve and expand our healthcare services in general.We, the undersigned residents of the Province of Manitoba, call upon the Government of Canada to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to insure quality healthcare services in all regions of Canada.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenMedicare is a fundamental part of Canada’s national identity and represents Canadians’ ongoing commitment to the values of equity, fairness, and solidarity. The Canada Health Act, Canada’s federal health care insurance legislation, sets out the broad principles (namely public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility), as well as penalty provisions that discourage patient charges, that must be satisfied by provincial and territorial health care insurance plans in order to qualify for their full share of the cash contribution available under the federal Canada Health Transfer.The penalty provisions under the Act allow for Canada Health Transfer deductions from provinces and territories who do not comply with the principles of the Act. The aim of the Act is not to levy deductions but rather to ensure that all eligible residents of Canadian provinces and territories have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital and physician services, on a prepaid basis, without charges related to the provision of insured health care services. As such, when provinces and territories have been subject to a deduction due to patient charges, they are eligible to receive a reimbursement if they choose to work with Health Canada and take the necessary steps to put a stop to the charges and eliminate the circumstances that led to them.The Government of Canada recognizes that access to care for individuals living in remote and rural area remains a challenge. The intent of the accessibility criterion under the Act is to ensure that insured persons have reasonable access to insured services on uniform terms and conditions. Reasonable access in terms of physical availability has been interpreted using the “where and as available” principle. Thus, residents of a province or territory are entitled to have access on uniform terms and conditions to insured health care services at the setting “where” the services are provided and “as” the services are available in that setting. The provinces and territories have various programs and initiatives, including the expansion of virtual care, to help support access to health services for individuals living in rural and remote areas.The roles and responsibilities for health are shared between the federal, provincial and territorial governments. The provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in health care administration and delivery. This includes setting their own priorities, administering their health care budgets and managing their own resources. Nonetheless, the Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments to strengthen health care systems so that they continue to meet the needs of Canadians, and has taken leadership in engaging with the jurisdictions to address key health care priorities.As part of the Budget 2017 commitment to improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, the Government is investing $11 billion over 10 years to increase supports for Canadians. Bilateral agreements, detailing how federal investment between 2017-18 and 2021-22 would help improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, were negotiated with all provinces and territories and posted to Government of Canada’s website. Additional funding agreements will be negotiated with provinces and territories for the remaining years (2022-23 to 2026-27).Home and Community CareAs part of the Common Statement of Principles on Shared Health Priorities, federal, provincial, and territorial Health Ministers have committed to working together to improve access to appropriate services and supports in home and community, including palliative and end-of-life care, by pursuing one or more of the following actions:
  • Spreading and scaling evidence-based models of home and community care that are more integrated and connected with primary health care;
  • Enhancing access to palliative and end-of-life care at home or in hospices;
  • Increasing support for caregivers; and,
  • Enhancing home care infrastructure, such as digital connectivity, remote monitoring technology and facilities for community-based service delivery.
Home care services help people receive needed care at home, rather than in a hospital or long-term care facility, and to live as independently as possible in the community. Home care usually includes professional services at no cost to the client (e.g., physiotherapy, nursing, and occupational therapy) and home support/personal care (e.g., personal hygiene, dressing, feeding, and toileting), which is income-tested in most provinces and territories.Examples of initiatives funded under the bilateral agreements include improved respite services and benefits for caregivers, offering a range of care and services in the community to avoid unnecessary hospital or long-term care admissions, enhanced palliative home care programming, and implementing care assessment tools to allow clinicians to develop care plans and monitor home care clients.This supports Canadians to get the care they need closer to home through enhanced home care services, greater access to palliative care in the community, and strengthened supports for families who are caring for their loved ones.Mental Health and AddictionsAs a result of investments to date from Budget 2017, provinces and territories have implemented new initiatives to improve access, and spread evidence-based models of mental health and addiction services, with a particular focus on strengthening integrated supports for children, and youth.The appointment of a Minister of Mental Health and Addictions in November 2021 underscores the importance the Government of Canada places on both mental health and substance use services. The Government is committed to ensuring that mental health is treated as a full and equal part of our universal health care system and the need to continue to apply a whole-of society approach to harms resulting from substance use.The Government of Canada is currently providing a range of supports for mental health and substance use, including:
  • Support for mental health promotion for children, youth, young adults and populations susceptible to mental health inequities;
  • Support for the development of mental health and substance use standards which will help to formalize what Canadians can expect in terms of the quality of services; and,
  • Wellness Together Canada, an online mental health and substance use support portal which provides free and confidential online mental health and substance use supports accessible 24/7 to individuals across Canada in both official languages. 
Recently, the Government of Canada announced the launch in November 2023 of a new three-digit suicide prevention line providing mental health crisis and suicide prevention intervention by trained responders.The federal government also funds two pan-Canadian Health Organizations, the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, and the Mental Health Commission of Canada, which play key roles in coordinating and mobilizing diverse sectors for common action and innovation.Health WorkersIn addition, the Government of Canada is working with provinces and territories, as well as key health partners to develop concrete actions to address the health workforce crisis. The Government recently announced a Coalition for Action for Health Workers which will inform immediate and longer-term solutions to address significant health workforce challenges. The Coalition's initial priorities will include: providing advice on workers' retention so health workers continue to stay in their jobs; increasing the supply of health professionals in the country; improving health workforce data; and opportunities to scale new models of care to address key barriers.While the licensing of immigrant health care workers is under the purview of the provincial and territorial colleges, the federal government has recently announced changes to make it easier for foreign-born physicians to remain in Canada, so they can continue to practice in the country and bolster our health care system. The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada continues to prioritize temporary resident work permit applications for essential workers in health care, and in 2022, the department has accepted over 8,600 temporary and permanent resident applications from foreign nationals intending to work in the health sector. More information on this initiative can be found here.Additional Federal Investments in HealthBuilding on progress made in the first five years on agreed health care priorities with federal funding, the Government is currently working with provinces and territories to advance new bilateral agreements that will outline how they will use the $6 billion that remains available over the next five years.In addition to these investments, when short-term pandemic funding was needed, the federal government made significant investments in health care and all other areas of the economy and worked hand in hand with provinces and territories in the fight against COVID-19. Eight out of every 10 dollars invested to help support Canadians during the pandemic has come from the Government of Canada.In July 2022, the Government provided provinces and territories with an additional $2 billion one-time top-up to the Canada Health Transfer, to further help them to address pandemic-related health system pressures, particularly the backlog of surgeries, medical procedures and diagnostics. This is in addition to the $5 billion health care funding our Government provided to provinces and territories in July 2021, including a $4 billion one-time top-up to the Canada Health Transfer to support provinces and territories to clear the backlog of procedures caused by the pandemic, and $1 billion to support vaccine roll-out. Beyond this, the Government of Canada also provides funding to a number of pan-Canadian Health Organizations such as the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC), which works with partners across Canada to accelerate and introduce programs to: restore and sustain cancer care in the wake of the pandemic; drive faster innovation to improve access to world-class screening; address inequities in care for underserviced populations; and, advance the priorities and actions of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control (2019-29).Going forward, the Government remains ready to work with provincial and territorial governments to further discuss health system priorities, actions and results, including:
  1. Addressing the health workforce crisis, surgical backlogs and hospital capacity issues;
  2. Implementing integrated, team-based care;
  3. Improving health data and digital access to health care;
  4. Improving mental health and substance use services; and,
  5. Helping Canadians to age with dignity, close to home.
As we build on the federal government’s track record of providing support, we are committed to working with provinces and territories to develop a shared vision for the future — one that includes improved efficiencies, strong accountability measures, intuitive reporting, and more. Canadians expect results for their investments. We need to find innovative solutions to our challenges by working together constructively with provinces and territories partners.
Federal-provincial-territorial relationsHealth care system
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 14, 2022441-00826441-00826 (Foreign affairs)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONNovember 1, 2022December 14, 2022October 11, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Falun Gong is a traditional Chinese spiritual discipline which consists of meditation exercise and moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance;In July 1999, the Chinese Communist Party launched an intensive, nationwide persecution campaign to eradicate Falun Gong. Hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners have been detained in forced labour camps, brainwashing centres and prisons, where torture and abuse are routine and thousands died as a result;Canadian lawyer David Matas and former Canadian Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific David Kilgour conducted an investigation in 2006 and concluded that the Chinese regime and its agencies throughout China have put to death a large number, in tens of thousands, of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience. Their vital organs were seized involuntarily for sale at high price;The Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) has got about 1.5 million petition signatures from over 50 countries and presented to United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights calling for immediate action to end the unethical practice of forced organ harvesting in China and calls for an end of the persecution of Falun Gong; andThe European Parliament passed a resolution condemning the organ harvesting abuses in China and calls on the Government of China to end immediately the practice of harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience.Therefore we, the undersigned, request the Canadian parliament and government to:A) Pass a resolution to establish measures to stop the Chinese Communist regime's crime of systematically murdering Falun Gong practitioners for their organs;B) Amend Canadian legislations to combat forced organ harvesting; andC) Publicly call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong in China.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Ministers stressed the importance of frank dialogue, and that with our strong cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries must pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China.On July 8, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the margins of the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting. She once again reiterated Canada’s concerns with human rights in China.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01085441-01085 (Justice)KellyMcCauleyEdmonton WestConservativeABJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01555441-01555 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABJune 14, 2023July 19, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01071441-01071 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABJanuary 30, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 10, 2023441-01200441-01200 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMarch 27, 2023May 10, 2023November 18, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS:Given current ecological, social and economic crises, our collective future depends on all levels of government and Canadians to make informed and responsible decisions regarding environment and sustainability matters;We have entered an age whereby human impact is approaching many ecological system boundaries such as fresh water usage, atmospheric pollution, and extinction of species;The current state of environmental education in Canada is inadequate to address these challenges and empower citizens to understand the complexity of the issues and take effective action; and The government of Canada should provide coherent national leadership in environmental and sustainability education and recognize the importance of Indigenous Knowledges and practices in the education of Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the House of Commons to take a leadership role in enacting a Canadian strategy that supports educators, communicators, community leaders, as well as provincial and municipal governments to take actions that result in healthy, sustainable, and flourishing human and ecological communities.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Minister of the Environment and Climate Change has a mandate to provide Canadians with environmental information in the public interest and promote and encourage practices and conduct that help to preserve the environment, in cooperation with partners such as provincial governments, Indigenous peoples, not-for-profit organizations, academic institutions and others to advance this mission. Last year, the Minister was also mandated by the Prime Minister to engage with Canadians to better communicate the impact of climate change. Environmental education is critical to tackling the environmental challenges Canada is facing today and will face tomorrow. It is also an important part of our international commitments. Canada is actively engaged in the work of Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). ACE emphasizes the importance of education to address the climate crisis and promote sustainability. Its overarching goal is to empower people to engage in climate action through education, training, public awareness, public participation, public access to information, and international cooperation on these issues. It also emphasizes the importance of youth voices in climate change action.These obligations are taken very seriously, and the Department recognizes that more needs to be done to improve access to climate and environmental education. The views expressed in this petition will be taken under consideration.In Canada, provinces and territories are responsible for organizing, delivering, and assessing all levels of education. The Government of Canada contributes to sustainability knowledge and education through various means including by undertaking and funding critical research that provides the foundation for environmental and sustainability education; working with and providing funding and support to diverse partners across Canada in support of this mission, and leading the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.Information, Research and ScienceThe Government of Canada has conducted a national assessment process of how and why Canada’s climate is changing. This assessment discusses the impacts of these changes on communities, environment, and the economy, and details how Canadians are adapting. A series of reports that followed the national assessment raise awareness of the issues facing the country and provide information to Canadians to support sound decisions and actions that address climate change and adapt to its impacts.The Government of Canada is also implementing the Roadmap for Open Science. This will make the scientific research process more inclusive and accessible to scientists and Canadians by making data and publications open and making research understandable and useful. In addition, the Government of Canada is developing a climate data strategy to ensure that the private sector and communities have access to data to inform planning and infrastructure investments.At Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the Canadian Centre for Climate Services provides information to improve Canadians’ understanding of how the climate is changing and how those changes could affect them, as well as guidance and resources to make climate-smart decisions.The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators program publishes high-quality indicators that provide Canadians with information on Canada's performance on environmental sustainability issues including climate change quality, water quality and availability, and species at risk.Research shows that Canadians trust scientists. To leverage its scientific resources, ECCC has developed a pilot program, in French and English, which helps ECCC scientists, researchers and science experts to become better science communicators and harness storytelling and presentation techniques to reach and motivate more Canadians to take environmental and climate action. Once trained, these experts are connected to the Canadian public through a network of schools, museums, science centres as well non-governmental organizations.Working with PartnersThe Program of Applied Research on Climate Action in Canada (PARCA) https://impact.canada.ca/en/behavioural-science/parca is a multi-year program of research on climate change, running from September 2021 to March 2024. It is a partnership between Environment and Climate Change Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Privy Council Office’s Impact and Innovation Unit. PARCA is using behavioural science for an evidenced-based, data-driven approach to understanding what drives choices and behaviours and what barriers stand in the way of greater climate and environmental action. This will help point the way to more impactful interventions by factoring in actual behaviour.  Behaviourally informed solutions will be tested online and then in the real world for their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate adaptation at the individual and community levels. This work will generate new insights on a rapid timeframe and use them to inform policy development, program design, and communications. A large network of internal and external partners, including partners at multilateral organizations and an advisory committee of subject matter experts, are guiding the research program to help ensure its relevance, rigour, and impact. PARCA data pointed directly to the need for the kinds of partnerships ECCC is developing to build climate literacy.Youth have an important role to play in climate action. Today’s youth and future generations will face the gravest environmental and climate consequences. The youth population is also particularly susceptible to mis- and dis-information. Meaningful youth engagement and education in environment and climate action is essential in building a more sustainable future. That is why the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council (ECCYC) was formed in August 2022. The ECCYC is a group of young Canadians who are passionate about protecting the environment and taking climate action. They have been selected to advise on key environmental and climate issues to inform decisions by the Government of Canada. The ECCYC is engaged on the Government’s climate communication and education initiatives and plays an important role in connecting with diverse community, national and international networks to help mobilize youth for climate action.The Government of Canada also contributes to sustainability knowledge and education by funding research through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. In addition, ECCC’s EcoAction Community Funding Program provides financial support to non-profit and non-government organizations for Canadian communities to take on local action-based projects that produce measurable and positive effects on the environment and to build their capacity to sustain these activities in the future. EcoAction funds projects that lead to tangible environmental results, engage the community to improve the environment, increase environmental awareness and capacity in communities, and result in sustainable outcomes and engagement following project completion.The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a specified purpose account administered by ECCC, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to direct funds received from fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment. EDF funding is available for projects that address one or more of the program’s priority areas. Priority is given to projects that restore the natural environment and conserve wildlife, improve environmental quality, undertake research and development on environmental restoration and improve and/or advance education and awareness on issues affecting the health of the natural environment. This could include, for example, promoting education related to environmental damage restoration, including training for the assessment and restoration of damage, or for increased awareness and compliance with environmental regulations.Federal  Sustainable Development StrategyThe Government of Canada provides federal leadership on environmental and sustainability issues through the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, as detailed in the Federal Sustainable Development Act. Key aspects of this work are openness and transparency in providing information about sustainability in Canada. The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy brings the federal government’s sustainable development priorities, goals, targets and actions together in one place and enables parliamentarians and Canadians to track progress.All federal organizations subject to the Federal Sustainable Development Act are also required to develop a Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy every three years and report on its progress. These documents provide specific details on all departments’ plans and actions that advance sustainable development in Canada. As is stated by the Federal Sustainable Development Act,the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of involving Indigenous peoples in developing the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy given their Traditional Knowledge and unique understanding of, and connection to, Canada’s lands and waters. Indigenous youth will inherit the results of Canada’s sustainable development efforts. It is critical that no future generation of Indigenous youth is “left behind”. 
Environmental protectionSustainable communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 5, 2022441-00774441-00774 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBOctober 20, 2022December 5, 2022October 11, 2022Petition to the House of Commons Whereas:1. The Canada Health Act provides a framework to insure Canada would have a world class health care system based on five fundamental principles;2. The five principles include public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility;3. Both the Federal and Provincial Governments have a responsibility to insure there is a sense of equity in fairness of services no matter where a person lives in Canada; and4. Extra attention should be given to issues like mental health, cancer care, long term care, recognizing immigrant healthcare workers and ways to improve and expand our healthcare services in general.We, the undersigned residents of the Province of Manitoba, call upon the Government of Canada to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to insure quality healthcare services in all regions of Canada.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenMedicare is a fundamental part of Canada’s national identity and represents Canadians’ ongoing commitment to the values of equity, fairness, and solidarity. The Canada Health Act, Canada’s federal health care insurance legislation, sets out the broad principles (namely public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility), as well as penalty provisions that discourage patient charges, that must be satisfied by provincial and territorial health care insurance plans in order to qualify for their full share of the cash contribution available under the federal Canada Health Transfer.The penalty provisions under the Act allow for Canada Health Transfer deductions from provinces and territories who do not comply with the principles of the Act. The aim of the Act is not to levy deductions but rather to ensure that all eligible residents of Canadian provinces and territories have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital and physician services, on a prepaid basis, without charges related to the provision of insured health care services. As such, when provinces and territories have been subject to a deduction due to patient charges, they are eligible to receive a reimbursement if they choose to work with Health Canada and take the necessary steps to put a stop to the charges and eliminate the circumstances that led to them.The Government of Canada recognizes that access to care for individuals living in remote and rural area remains a challenge. The intent of the accessibility criterion under the Act is to ensure that insured persons have reasonable access to insured services on uniform terms and conditions. Reasonable access in terms of physical availability has been interpreted using the “where and as available” principle. Thus, residents of a province or territory are entitled to have access on uniform terms and conditions to insured health care services at the setting “where” the services are provided and “as” the services are available in that setting. The provinces and territories have various programs and initiatives, including the expansion of virtual care, to help support access to health services for individuals living in rural and remote areas.The roles and responsibilities for health are shared between the federal, provincial and territorial governments. The provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in health care administration and delivery. This includes setting their own priorities, administering their health care budgets and managing their own resources. Nonetheless, the Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments to strengthen health care systems so that they continue to meet the needs of Canadians, and has taken leadership in engaging with the jurisdictions to address key health care priorities.As part of the Budget 2017 commitment to improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, the Government is investing $11 billion over 10 years to increase supports for Canadians. Bilateral agreements, detailing how federal investment between 2017-18 and 2021-22 would help improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, were negotiated with all provinces and territories and posted to Government of Canada’s website. Additional funding agreements will be negotiated with provinces and territories for the remaining years (2022-23 to 2026-27). Home and Community CareAs part of the Common Statement of Principles on Shared Health Priorities, federal, provincial, and territorial Health Ministers have committed to working together to improve access to appropriate services and supports in home and community, including palliative and end-of-life care, by pursuing one or more of the following actions:
  • Spreading and scaling evidence-based models of home and community care that are more integrated and connected with primary health care;
  • Enhancing access to palliative and end-of-life care at home or in hospices;
  • Increasing support for caregivers; and,
  • Enhancing home care infrastructure, such as digital connectivity, remote monitoring technology and facilities for community-based service delivery.
Home care services help people receive needed care at home, rather than in a hospital or long-term care facility, and to live as independently as possible in the community. Home care usually includes professional services at no cost to the client (e.g., physiotherapy, nursing, and occupational therapy) and home support/personal care (e.g., personal hygiene, dressing, feeding, and toileting), which is income-tested in most provinces and territories.Examples of initiatives funded under the bilateral agreements include improved respite services and benefits for caregivers, offering a range of care and services in the community to avoid unnecessary hospital or long-term care admissions, enhanced palliative home care programming, and implementing care assessment tools to allow clinicians to develop care plans and monitor home care clients.This supports Canadians to get the care they need closer to home through enhanced home care services, greater access to palliative care in the community, and strengthened supports for families who are caring for their loved ones. Mental Health and AddictionsAs a result of investments to date from Budget 2017, provinces and territories have implemented new initiatives to improve access, and spread evidence-based models of mental health and addiction services, with a particular focus on strengthening integrated supports for children, and youth.The appointment of a Minister of Mental Health and Addictions in November 2021 underscores the importance the Government of Canada places on both mental health and substance use services. The Government is committed to ensuring that mental health is treated as a full and equal part of our universal health care system and the need to continue to apply a whole-of society approach to harms resulting from substance use.The Government of Canada is currently providing a range of supports for mental health and substance use, including:
  • Support for mental health promotion for children, youth, young adults and populations susceptible to mental health inequities;
  • Support for the development of mental health and substance use standards which will help to formalize what Canadians can expect in terms of the quality of services; and,
  • Wellness Together Canada, an online mental health and substance use support portal which provides free and confidential online mental health and substance use supports accessible 24/7 to individuals across Canada in both official languages. 
Recently, the Government of Canada announced the launch in November 2023 of a new three-digit suicide prevention line providing mental health crisis and suicide prevention intervention by trained responders.The federal government also funds two pan-Canadian Health Organizations, the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, and the Mental Health Commission of Canada, which play key roles in coordinating and mobilizing diverse sectors for common action and innovation. Health WorkersIn addition, the Government of Canada is working with provinces and territories, as well as key health partners to develop concrete actions to address the health workforce crisis. The Government recently announced a Coalition for Action for Health Workers which will inform immediate and longer-term solutions to address significant health workforce challenges. The Coalition's initial priorities will include: providing advice on workers' retention so health workers continue to stay in their jobs; increasing the supply of health professionals in the country; improving health workforce data; and opportunities to scale new models of care to address key barriers.While the licensing of immigrant health care workers is under the purview of the provincial and territorial colleges, the federal government has recently announced changes to make it easier for foreign-born physicians to remain in Canada, so they can continue to practice in the country and bolster our health care system. The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada continues to prioritize temporary resident work permit applications for essential workers in health care, and in 2022, the department has accepted over 8,600 temporary and permanent resident applications from foreign nationals intending to work in the health sector. More information on this initiative can be found here. Additional Federal Investments in HealthBuilding on progress made in the first five years on agreed health care priorities with federal funding, the Government is currently working with provinces and territories to advance new bilateral agreements that will outline how they will use the $6 billion that remains available over the next five years.In addition to these investments, when short-term pandemic funding was needed, the federal government made significant investments in health care and all other areas of the economy and worked hand in hand with provinces and territories in the fight against COVID-19. Eight out of every 10 dollars invested to help support Canadians during the pandemic has come from the Government of Canada.In July 2022, the Government provided provinces and territories with an additional $2 billion one-time top-up to the Canada Health Transfer, to further help them to address pandemic-related health system pressures, particularly the backlog of surgeries, medical procedures and diagnostics. This is in addition to the $5 billion health care funding our Government provided to provinces and territories in July 2021, including a $4 billion one-time top-up to the Canada Health Transfer to support provinces and territories to clear the backlog of procedures caused by the pandemic, and $1 billion to support vaccine roll-out. Beyond this, the Government of Canada also provides funding to a number of pan-Canadian Health Organizations such as the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC), which works with partners across Canada to accelerate and introduce programs to: restore and sustain cancer care in the wake of the pandemic; drive faster innovation to improve access to world-class screening; address inequities in care for underserviced populations; and, advance the priorities and actions of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control (2019-29).Going forward, the Government remains ready to work with provincial and territorial governments to further discuss health system priorities, actions and results, including:
  1. Addressing the health workforce crisis, surgical backlogs and hospital capacity issues;
  2. Implementing integrated, team-based care;
  3. Improving health data and digital access to health care;
  4. Improving mental health and substance use services; and,
  5. Helping Canadians to age with dignity, close to home.
As we build on the federal government’s track record of providing support, we are committed to working with provinces and territories to develop a shared vision for the future — one that includes improved efficiencies, strong accountability measures, intuitive reporting, and more. Canadians expect results for their investments. We need to find innovative solutions to our challenges by working together constructively with provinces and territories partners. 
Federal-provincial-territorial relationsHealth care system
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00854441-00854 (Animals)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCNovember 21, 2022January 18, 2023September 21, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, urge our Federal Government to follow the lead of the European Parliament which voted, on September 15th 2021, in overwhelming favour, to phase out the use of animals in experiments. In this era of personalized medicine and sophisticated new technologies that are proving to be superior and more relevant to scientific progress, and with increasing public concern over biohazardous waste and zoonotic diseases, we call on the Government to issue a Directive phasing out animal experimentation in biomedical research, toxicological testing and education.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada recognizes that Canadians are concerned about the well-being of animals and the potential harm caused by using them in research. It is for this reason that the Government is taking concrete actions to reduce the use of animals in research and testing.The Government of Canada is also advancing a number of initiatives to promote methods that replace, reduce or refine the use of animal testing where possible. Most recently, the Government of Canada introduced amendments to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) in Bill S-5 that recognize the need to reduce reliance on vertebrate animal testing when assessing the risks that substances may pose on human health and the environment. These amendments will encourage federal government departments to promote the development and timely use of alternative methods and strategies, as science permits. Additionally, the Government of Canada is working to introduce legislation to amend the Food and Drugs Act to ban cosmetic testing on animals in Canada.To ensure that decisions continue to be supported by the best available scientific evidence and to support the phase-out of animals in toxicity testing, scientists at Health Canada are working with the international scientific community to develop, validate and implement effective non-animal methods and to use state of the art technology, such as computational approaches or cultured human cells. This includes through continued leadership and contributions to work under the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and initiatives, such as Accelerating the Pace of Chemical Risk Assessment with the European Chemicals Agency and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Further, as part of Health Canada’s collaboration with the scientific community focusing on developing and implementing effective non-animal test methods, Health Canada has been working with the Canadian Centre for Alternatives to Animal Methods at the University of Windsor since the Centre was established in 2017. More recently, Health Canada is working with the Centre in the organization of the Twelfth World Congress on Alternatives and Animal Use in the Life Sciences, to be held in August 2023 in Niagara Falls, Ontario. This international scientific conference aims to harness the efforts of the scientific community to accelerate the development and validation of non-animal test methods.The Government remains committed to replacing, reducing, or refining animal models with scientifically justified and practicable alternatives and strategies, and to supporting scientific efforts to reduce the reliance on animal experiments. The Government of Canada will continue taking steps that align with those of our international counterparts, ensuring that decisions that impact the health of Canadians and the environment remain supported by the best available science.
Animal experimentationAnimal rights and welfare
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2023441-01118441-01118 (National defence and military operations)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 6, 2023March 22, 2023June 23, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination produced its final report in early 2022;Whereas the report calls for clergy from religions which have a different view on gender and sexuality than the Department of National Defence to be banned as chaplains in the Canadian Armed Forces;Whereas the report slanders even mainstream Canadian religions as discriminatory, misogynist, and sexist;Whereas all Canadians, including members and chaplains of the Canadian Armed Forces, are entitled to the Charter-guaranteed right of freedom of religion;Whereas Canadian Armed Forces chaplains serve all members of the Forces without distinction on the basis of religion, gender, or sexual orientation; andWhereas discrimination on the basis of religion is wrong and offensive to Canadians.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Reject the recommendations on chaplaincy in the Canadian Armed Forces in the final report of the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination; and2. Affirm the right of all Canadians, including Canadian Armed Forces chaplains, to freedom of religion.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayLast April, the Minister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination released a comprehensive set of recommendations to ensure Canada’s military is safe and welcoming for all. Work is underway to assess the implications of the Advisory Panel’s recommendations, including those on the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, and the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff is coordinating an analysis of each recommendation.The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service’s (RCChS) primary goal is the care of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, without exceptions. It is already the expectation that CAF chaplains uphold the values and ethos of the CAF, just like every other member of the military. When chaplains apply for their roles within the chaplaincy, they undergo a rigorous process to assess their ability to provide spiritual support within the context of CAF values. Anyone who successfully makes it through this assessment has demonstrated their ability to provide religious or spiritual counsel to CAF members of all or no faiths, without judgement or exception.To this end, the RCChS continues to embrace CAF values and ethos, and has taken significant steps in the past several years to strengthen its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For example, as of 2019, in order to better serve the CAF and represent the religious/spiritual diversity of Canadian society, the RCChS sought to include a wider number of traditions not previously represented in CAF chaplaincy. This resulted in the enrollment of chaplains from Sikh, Buddhist, and Humanist traditions. The RCChS also shifted from the historical requirement of “ordained” status to a more broadly defined status of “credentialed as a faith tradition leader.” In doing so, the RCChS has ensured wider opportunities for women from faith traditions where they cannot be ordained, but who meet qualification standards for CAF chaplaincy as credentialed faith tradition leaders. This is already the case for Roman Catholic and Muslim women, currently serving in the RCChS, and will now be an option for women from other faith traditions.To further promote diversity and inclusion, the RCChS has instituted several new advisor positions, including an Indigenous Advisor, 2SLGBTQi+ Advisor, Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Advisor, Gender Advisor, and Advisor to the Commander of Chief Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC) in an effort to raise awareness, educate, and innovate. These advisors play a critical role in providing strategic input and advice to ensure direction and guidance, and programs integrate diverse perspectives with a view to enhancing inclusive engagement on behalf of the RCChS. The CAF continues to take positive steps to ensure that the chaplaincy represents Canadian society and supports the needs of its broader membership.
Canadian ForcesChaplaincy services and chaplainsMinister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism, Discrimination with a focus on anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism, LGBTQ2+ Prejudice, Gender Bias and White SupremacyReligious discrimination
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00595441-00595 (Indigenous affairs)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONJune 16, 2022August 17, 2022June 14, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Kawenn:io/Gawenn:yo Elementary and High School Children and Families continue to do their part in striving to keep our Hodenosaunee culture and languages alive at Six Nations of the Grand River;
  • They need a permanent home school to accommodate access for all who wish to attend as the current situation creates challenges in trying to accommodate the current demand due to space limitation and health and safety regulations to meet new safe school requirements resulting from COVID-19 impacts;
  • Recognizing the huge contribution made by Curt Styres, owner of their current educational location at the Iroquois Arena, for his continued support and contribution of this Immersion program for the past eleven years. The community sincerely hopes that soon they will be able to move to a new school and allow him to move forward with his delayed plans;
  • This school has had to move five times since 1985, when the original founders established the immersion program. The Founders recognized the importance of this program to ensure a continuous supply of community language speakers and knowledge carriers to keep the Hodenosaunee culture, language and way of life strong to survive into the future;
  • The community members are thankful for the contributions in keeping the culture and language alive despite the overwhelming challenges that still exist. They have been working for 30+ years to build a school; and
  • Kawenn:io/Gawenn:yo School is ready to undertake the construction of the New Immersion Kawenn:io/Gawenn:yo Elementary and High School. The design brief was accepted by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) in November 2018. Since then, this project is shovel ready.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to fund the project of the New Immersion Kawenn:io/Gawenn:yo Elementary and High School.
Response by the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern OntarioSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Vance BadaweyThank you for your petition regarding the New Immersion Kawenn:io/Gawenn:yo Elementary and High School. The construction of the Kawenni:io/Gaweni:yo School represents an important initiative that responds to the preservation and revitalization of the Cayuga and Mohawk languages and culture for current and future generations.Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) was pleased to fund $53,270 for Six Nations of the Grand River to finalize the updated design brief for the Kawenni:io/Gaweni:yo Language School. The Department also provided a letter of support for the Six Nations of the Grand River’s application to Infrastructure Canada under the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program seeking $17.7 million for the construction of the school. We understand that this project was not selected for funding under this program, however, Infrastructure Canada is planning a second proposal intake for this program in 2022, which may offer Six Nations of the Grand River an opportunity to re-apply.To ensure funding is allocated to the highest priority education infrastructure projects, ISC uses a school priority ranking framework, based on established criteria, that provides a consistent and transparent approach to guide education infrastructure investments. Criteria includes health and safety, overcrowding, access to other education facilities, design requirements, and cost share and efficiency opportunities.Priority investments are being made in education facilities where health and safety improvements are critical and to ensure adequate education facilities are available in communities that have no access to other education options, such as in remote communities.We will continue to collaborate with Six Nations of the Grand River to ensure that the Kawenn:io/Gaweni:yo school project is well positioned to take advantage of funding when it becomes available to advance the detailed design and construction phases. ISC will also continue to engage with other departments on opportunities to support this project.
Indigenous languagesSchoolsSix Nations of the Grand River
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00627441-00627 (Environment)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONJune 20, 2022September 20, 2022June 16, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition. 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01741441-01741 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 5, 2023November 20, 2023September 14, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00117441-00117 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCFebruary 1, 2022March 21, 2022December 15, 2021PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The U.S. Department of State's 20th Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report indicates that Canada "meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking";
  • The TIP Report notes that Canadian governments "did not provide comprehensive data” on investigations, prosecutions, convictions, or victims' services;
  • The range, quality, and timely delivery of trafficking-specific services varies across Canada, including persistent funding shortages;
  • Coordination between the federal and provincial governments on anti-trafficking measures is poor; and
  • The TIP Report urges Canadian governments to increase the use of proactive law enforcement techniques, increase training for prosecutors and judges, and increase partnerships with the private sector to prevent human trafficking.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: Strengthen the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act to address Canada's shortcomings as mentioned in the TIP Report so that Canada exceeds the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; and Cooperate and coordinate more closely with the provinces, the private sector, and other stakeholders to combat human trafficking in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Pam Damoff, MPThe Government of Canada takes the issue of human trafficking seriously and is committed to the protection of children, women, girls, and other vulnerable members of society from all forms of exploitation and abuse, including sexual exploitation and labour trafficking in Canada and abroad.The protection of victims of human trafficking is a shared responsibility among all levels of government. Provinces and territories provide services such as health and social services, emergency housing, and legal aid to victims and survivors, and in some cases have established their own local strategies and action plans to address human trafficking in their jurisdictions. Similarly, civil society and other non-governmental actors play a critical role in Canada’s response to this crime. The Government of Canada recognizes that human trafficking is a multifaceted issue which requires cooperation with the provinces and territories, the private sector and civil society actors.In 2019, the Government of Canada launched the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking (National Strategy), which brings together federal efforts under one strategic framework, and is supported by an investment of $57.22 million over five years and $10.28 million ongoing. The National Strategy includes measures aligned with the internationally recognized pillars of prevention, protection, prosecution and partnerships. Expanding on these pillars, the National Strategy includes empowerment as a fifth pillar to enhance supports and services to victims of human trafficking. As a whole-of-government approach, the National Strategy sets out a comprehensive way forward to address human trafficking and brings together all federal efforts that aim to address human trafficking under one strategic plan to ensure a collaborative and coordinated national response.Under the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, the Federal Government has developed an enhanced governance structure to enable a more coordinated response to human trafficking. The Human Trafficking Taskforce (HTT), comprised of all relevant federal departments, was established to ensure effective coordination, implementation and management of existing and enhanced efforts to address human trafficking in Canada and abroad. Further, the HTT serves to support the alignment of anti-human trafficking initiatives with other federal government priorities (i.e. Gender-Based Violence and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls). Public Safety Canada has also established robust mechanisms to bolster existing governance through the federal HTT. These include an Assistant Deputy Ministers meeting, and a Director-General Steering Committee on Human Trafficking which provide oversight of the horizontal initiative.Collaboration and information sharing with federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments through the Public Safety Canada-led FPT Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Working Group remains central to the Government’s efforts. The Government of Canada also hosts a Justice Canada led-FPT Coordinating Committee of Senior Officials on Human Trafficking. These meetings facilitate information sharing and collaboration, and the sharing of best practices and lessons learned to inform policy and program development.Furthermore, under the National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to hosting stakeholder engagements to ensure ongoing outreach and information sharing and to address emerging trends. The purpose of these engagements is to bring together experts, civil society organizations, service providers and other external stakeholders to enhance knowledge and information sharing; better understand stakeholder concerns and priority issues; and inform forward looking policy and program development. These meetings also provide Public Safety Canada and federal partners with an opportunity to strengthen key relationships, establish new ones, and identify opportunities for new partnerships.The Government of Canada is committed to combating human trafficking and will continue to work diligently to better understand gaps in Canada’s collective response to this crime to build stronger and safer communities across Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe 2021 Annual Report on Trafficking in Persons, prepared by the US Government, recognizes that Canada, as a Tier 1 country, fully meets the standards set by the report to combat trafficking in persons and that Canada continues to demonstrate sustained and serious efforts. Combating trafficking in persons in Canada requires concerted action by all levels of government and a broad range of stakeholders.The Government of Canada continues to demonstrate national leadership and is committed to ensuring a whole-of-government approach and comprehensive way forward to address human trafficking. The Criminal Code of Canada provides a robust framework for human trafficking with six specific human trafficking offences, including trafficking in adults, child trafficking, materially benefitting from human trafficking and withholding or destroying identity documents to facilitate this crime, with maximum penalties of up to life imprisonment. Additionally, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act includes a human trafficking-specific offence, which applies where victims are brought into Canada. This offence has a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Justice Canada provides training to law enforcement through the RCMP’s Human Trafficking Investigators Course, offered regularly through the Canadian Police College.The Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act, which came into force in 2014, created offences that apply to exploitative aspects ofthe sex industry and operate alongside the specific human trafficking offences in the Criminal Code. Canada’s criminal laws provide a broad set of tools to address trafficking in persons.The federal government works closely with provinces and territories to support victims of crime, including victims of human trafficking. Specifically, the Justice Canada Victims Fund makes grants and contributions funding available to provincial and territorial governments, NGOs, and other eligible recipients for the creation and enhancement of services for victims of crime and to enhance the skills and capacity of those who work with victims of crime so that these professionals and volunteers can better meet victims’ needs.In support of the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking led by Public Safety Canada, Justice Canada makes $1 million CAD per year available through the Victims Fund to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to develop or enhance services for victims of human trafficking. In particular, Justice Canada is providing funding to ten projects in fiscal year 2021-2022 through the Victims Fund. These projects include the establishment or enhancement of services for victims of human trafficking, as well as the development and delivery of training for law enforcement officers and frontline service providers. A total of $1,339,597 in funding was committed in fiscal year 2021-2022 to support victims of human trafficking.
Human traffickingProtection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01729441-01729 (Transportation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 4, 2023November 20, 2023June 4, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, students studying for a commercial pilot's license are currently waiting to be licensed and are unable to finish their training;Whereas, for months, Transport Canada offices have been closed, which has prevented students from being able to take their exams and receive certification;Whereas, across Canada, schools and other buildings have been opened and are operating with relevant precautions; and;Whereas, Transport Canada hasn't put forward a solution so that these students can complete their written exams.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Safely open the Transport Canada offices, or create some other facility or mechanism, so that students can write their exams and be able to receive their commercial pilot's licence.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezTransport Canada acknowledges the challenges faced by students studying for a commercial pilot license over the last few years. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the in-person examination offices had to temporarily pause examination invigilation, along with many public services which created a backlog.During the pandemic, Transport Canada adopted several temporary measures through exemptions to address medical renewals, extend licence privileges, and respond to the need for written examination for licences, instrument ratings, and flight instructor ratings. To familiarize themselves with these exemptions and other COVID-19 information, pilots and other aviation parties were advised to refer to the Transport Canada website where exemptions were published. For example, a temporary exemption was issued to allow candidates that have not yet written the requisite written examination for a commercial pilot licence, an instrument rating, or any of the flight instructor ratings, to be accepted to attempt the flight test required for the issuance of an instrument rating, any of the flight instructor ratings until August 31, 2022.Another temporary measure allowed all licensing applicants who have applied for a permit, licence, or rating after March 11, 2020, but no later than February 29, 2024, and who have successfully-completed the knowledge requirement, to extend the knowledge requirements by 10 months.Between July 2020 and December 2020, Transport Canada’s National Service Teams resumed examination invigilation in their offices. The resumption of examination invigilation aligned with the regional COVID-19 rules in place during that time. Transport Canada delivered examination on paper and sometimes used different facilities to accommodate a larger number of candidates while maintaining COVID-19 safety protocols, including social distancing. Many mass examination invigilation sessions were also organized, both on and off Transport Canada premises to address backlogs.In addition, Transport Canada expanded the Authorized Exam Invigilator program to include the addition of commercial pilot aeroplane examinations. This expansion was done to swiftly address examination backlog caused by the pandemic. It was implemented with schools that have an established Integrated Training Program as per the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR) 406.75 or, in certain geographical locations, have a Transport Canada accepted Quality Assurance System as per CAR 406.14. It should be noted that further expansion is currently on hold while mitigation efforts are implemented to ensure the security and validity of professional flight crew examinations.All Transport Canada Centres across Canada are currently scheduling examination invigilation by appointment only. Several examination sessions are being held per day/week to accommodate pilots, and there are ample openings in the current booking schedule to meet demand.Transport Canada acknowledges the challenges faced by students throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to work with industry partners to facilitate the undertaking of written examinations by students. 
Flight trainingPermits and licencesPilots
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 24, 2022441-00145441-00145 (Justice)KellyBlockCarlton Trail—Eagle CreekConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2022March 24, 2022June 13, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: coercion, intimidation, or other forms of pressure intended to force physicians and healthcare workers and health institutions to become parties in assisted suicide or euthanasia either directly or through effective referral is a violation of fundamental freedoms of conscience;Whereas, conscience protections for medical professionals are necessary for patients to access their right to a second opinion;Whereas, during testimony at the Special Joint Committee for Physician Assisted Dying, witnesses stated that the protection of conscience should be included in the government's legislative response to Carter v. Canada (AG);Whereas, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) confirmed that conscience protections for physicians and healthcare workers would not affect access to assisted suicide or euthanasia because over 24,000 physicians would be willing to do it;Whereas, s.2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects freedom of conscience;Therefore, we the undersigned, call upon the Parliament of Canada to enshrine in the Criminal Code the protection of conscience for physicians and healthcare workers from coercion or intimidation to provide or refer for assisted suicide or euthanasia.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex issue and many Canadians have deeply held views on the subject. On March 17, 2021, Former Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying) (S.C. 2021, c.2), received Royal Assent. Former Bill C-7 responded to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime. Conscience rights of health care providers and institutions are not matters that fall under the federal criminal law power. Nevertheless, the Government is committed to respecting the personal convictions of health care providers. Nothing in the CriminalCode compels a health care provider to provide or assist in the provision of MAID. This is already expressly stated under subsection 241.2(9) of the Criminal Code.The petition calls on Parliament to ensure that medical practitioners and health care institutions are free from coercion or intimidation in relation to medical assistance in dying. Whether medical practitioners can refuse to provide or refer for MAID, and that healthcare institutions can refuse to permit it on their premises, are also matters of provincial responsibility. No province or territory currently compels practitioners to provide MAID. However, provinces and territories could adopt policies requiring “effective referrals” which, in the MAID context, means referring the person, in good faith, to a practitioner who does not object to MAID.A provincial or territorial law or regulation that affects the conscience rights of providers can be challenged under the Charter, as was the effective referral policy of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario in 2018-2019, which applies to MAID. The Ontario Court of Appeal agreed that Ontario’s effective referral policy infringes on practitioners’ Charter-protected freedom of religion, but upheld the policy as a reasonable limit of religious freedom.
Caregivers and health care professionalsFreedom of conscience and religionMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 25, 2022441-00213441-00213 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 4, 2022April 25, 2022June 18, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, Following Azerbaijan's 44-day war against the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorono-Karabakh), a trilateral ceasefire agreement was signed between Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia - outside of the purview of the OSCE Minsk Group - ceasing all hostilities on the territory of the Republic of Artsakh.Whereas, while failing to address many challenges facing the region, the agreement specifically included a term relating to the return of prisoners of war and the exchange of the remains of fatalities.Whereas, despite such provisions, as many as 200 Armenian Prisoners of War (POW) illegally remain in Azerbaijani custody, without any transparent mechanisms in place to ensure their safe return.Whereas, since December 2020, Human Rights Watch has published two reports on the status of Armenian POW’s, confirming that they are being subjected to inhuman treatment, torture, humiliation, and other forms of abuse.Whereas, on February 1st, 2021, The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights released a statement, calling for the immediate release of POW’s.Whereas, on May 4, 2021, disturbing reports confirmed that close to 20 POW’s were mutilated and killed by Azerbaijani forces. This is a violation of international law by Azerbaijan, specifically as it relates to the provisions laid out in the Third Geneva Convention, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), all of which are signed by Azerbaijan.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Condemn Azerbaijan's illegal detention of Armenian POW’s and call for their immediate release;2. Use all the diplomatic tools available to advocate for the release of those held captive;3. Condemn the ongoing state-sponsored anti-Armenian hatred in Azerbaijan;4. Denounce all aggressive rhetoric from Turkey and Azerbaijan against Armenia and Artsakh;5. Provide the necessary humanitarian assistance to ensure the safety and viability of the population of Artsakh and facilitate the exchange of the remains of fatalities.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada is deeply concerned by ongoing tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and calls on all parties to continue engaging in dialogue and efforts toward a sustainable peace. Canada supports all UN Security Council Resolutions on Nagorno-Karabakh and the efforts of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. Canada supports a negotiated political solution to the conflict, as well as the continuation of dialogue between the parties towards promoting confidence-building measures. Armenia and Azerbaijan, and all external parties, must continue working together to build mutual confidence at this very sensitive time.Canada continues to monitor the situation related to the Armenian Prisoners of War (POWs) and other detainees, and is aware of the difficulties in securing their release. Canada has welcomed the release of detainees by Azerbaijan since May 2021, as well as the sharing of landmine maps by Armenia. Through both bilateral and multilateral channels, Canada continues to call for accelerating the immediate release of all detainees as a key step in the confidence-building process. The release of POWs and detainees remains one of Canada’s priorities, and Canada will continue to raise its concerns whenever the opportunity arises.Canada remains deeply concerned about the allegations of human rights violations facing Armenian POWs and detainees, and calls on the respective governments to fully abide by the simultaneous orders issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for provisional measures against both Armenia and Azerbaijan, including to take all necessary measures to prevent the incitement and promotion of racial hatred, including by officials and public institutions, and to protect persons captured by Azerbaijan during the conflict from bodily harm. Canada continues to call on respective governments to investigate human rights allegations diligently in compliance with international human rights law.The Government of Canada is working to address the post-conflict recovery and reconstruction of Nagorno-Karabakh in numerous ways. The Minister of Foreign Affairs is engaged with key partners. Canada maintains regular dialogue with the Government of Armenia and the Government of Azerbaijan, with the support of their embassies in Ottawa and Canada’s embassies to Armenia and Azerbaijan. Canada has provided an additional $1 million in humanitarian funding to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2021, in addition to the $450,000 provided in 2020 to support the ICRC’s budget extension for the region and address urgent needs that have arisen as a result of the conflict in a needs-based manner.Canada will continue to remain engaged and supportive of sustainable peace and security and will continue to assist with humanitarian efforts.
ArmeniaAzerbaijanForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workersPrisoners of war
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00451441-00451 (Natural resources and energy)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 11, 2022August 17, 2022February 13, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the government continues to allow refineries to import foreign oil, in spite of a struggling oil and gas industry in Canada that extracts and refines the most ethically sourced oil in the world, ultimately resulting in additional environmental impact due to the lower standards for foreign oil extraction which is not subject to the same rigorous environmental assessments and criteria as Canada. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately put in place a plan for an east/west energy corridor to replace foreign oil so that Canada's source of oil and crude remains in Canada serving the dual function of economic stimulus and environmental protection.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada maintains a market-based energy policy that relies on the private sector to decide when and where energy projects should be brought forward. The Government recognizes the importance of accessing new and emerging markets for our natural resources. Canada is committed to developing these resources in a sustainable manner that protects Canada’s rich natural environment, respects the rights of Indigenous peoples, and supports a more resilient natural resources sector.This resiliency includes developing infrastructure that aligns with Canada’s stringent environmental and safety standards. Resource corridors may be a means of achieving these objectives, when they meet relevant regulatory and market requirements. Building infrastructure along existing utility, rail and road rights of way is one approach that Canada’s industry uses to minimize the impact of new projects on the environment and communities.At this time, there is no project application to build a west-east crude oil pipeline. If a new proposal is put forward, federal regulators will provide a fair and rigorous review process. The Government of Canada will consider whether to approve a project once the review is complete and public and Indigenous consultations have concluded.Crude oil is a globally traded commodity for which purchasing decisions are made according to supply and demand fundamentals. Canada’s market-based energy framework allows refineries to source oil at the most competitive rates available, which ensures that adequate supplies of refined products are available to Canadian consumers at the lowest cost.While Canada has the third-largest proven reserves of crude oil in the world, some refiners in central and Eastern Canada do import crude oil, due to several factors. Different refineries require different grades of crude oil, for instance, and central and Eastern refineries are configured to process lighter grades of oil. Pipeline connectivity also plays a role.  Refineries in Ontario and Quebec do process significant volumes of Canadian oil, shipped via pipeline such as Enbridge’s Line 5 and Line 78 which bring Canadian oil into Sarnia, and then via Enbridge Line 9 into Quebec. In 2021, 66% of Canada’s crude oil imports came from the United States. As Europe works to address the geopolitical and socio-economic vulnerabilities highlighted by current events, the Government of Canada is considering all measures to preserve energy supply chains in Canada, Europe, and, where possible, worldwide. On March 24, 2022, the Government of Canada announced, in response to requests from allies to address supply shortages due to the conflict in Ukraine, Canadian industry has the capacity to incrementally increase oil and gas exports in 2022 by up to 300,000 barrels per day (200,000 bbl/d of oil and up to 100,000 BOE/d of natural gas).  The intention is to displace Russian oil and gas, and not increase global emissions. In the long-term, it is the shift to domestically produced renewable energy and hydrogen, supplied by stable countries like Canada, that will provide true energy and national security to Europe and the globe.The Government of Canada is taking action to keep our energy supply secure today, while preparing for an increasingly low carbon future.
Oil and gasPipeline transportation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00815441-00815 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022April 20, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online. This is a very important issue, and the Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians.The Government takes note of the petitioners’ concerns surrounding the volume of sexually explicit material on the Internet, and the harm it presents to young people. Many young people are utilizing these online platforms and can be particularly vulnerable to online harms such as incitements of violence, sexual harassment, physical threats online, and many more other harms. The Government is committed to addressing these concerns.As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content.From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. Subsequently, a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ was released on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways. The Minister also convened an Expert Advisory Group, composed of 12 experts from diverse backgrounds, which met over the course of the spring. The group’s discussions included topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online. The work of the expert advisory group concluded on June 10, 2022, and summaries of their discussions have been posted online. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlThe Minister of Canadian Heritage is currently conducting roundtables on online safety to understand the perspectives of those who would be most impacted by the legislation. Over the last few months, roundtables have taken place in cities across Canada, as well as virtually. Additionally, there have been engagements with international jurisdictions to better understand their approach to online harms and the protection children and youth. The government sees this as a serious issue and will continue to explore avenues that will best support our youth.The Government will take some time to further engage with civil society, experts, stakeholders and interested groups to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online, especially as it pertains to young persons.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 14, 2022441-00471441-00471 (Justice)DanAlbasCentral Okanagan—Similkameen—NicolaConservativeBCMay 13, 2022June 14, 2022June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00992441-00992 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01037441-01037 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01029441-01029 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023July 17, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01046441-01046 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01003441-01003 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 27, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01001441-01001 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 19, 2022441-00358441-00358 (Justice)PhilipLawrenceNorthumberland—Peterborough SouthConservativeONApril 6, 2022May 19, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2022441-00301441-00301 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 29, 2022May 12, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00577441-00577 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 14, 2022September 20, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00086441-00086 (Justice)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022May 31, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00094441-00094 (Justice)BradRedekoppSaskatoon WestConservativeSKDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 17, 2022441-00732441-00732 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 4, 2022November 17, 2022June 7, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, based on the advice, guidance, and recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Government of Canada, including Transport Canada, put in place a range of measures to mitigate transportation safety and security risks associated with COVID-19.Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement a comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures, that have evolved throughout the pandemic, based on the best available science, as well as guidance from PHAC. The measures made a real difference in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and have kept Canadian travellers and transportation workers safe, ensuring the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation Sector: On June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. In addition, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors are no longer required to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees. Border Measures: On October 1, 2022, the Government of Canada removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, meaning that all travellers, regardless of citizenship, no longer have to:
  • submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
  • provide proof of vaccination;
  • undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
  • carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada.
COVID-19 Requirements in the Transportation Sector: In alignment with PHACs adjustments to border measures, Transport Canada also removed all existing travel requirements as of October 1, 2022. As such, travellers are no longer required to undergo health checks for air and rail travel, or wear masks on planes and trains. All travellers are strongly recommended to continue wearing high quality and well-fitted masks during their journeys. Cruise measures were also lifted, and travellers are no longer required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use ArriveCAN. A set of guidelines remain in place to protect passengers and crew, which align with the approach used in the United States.The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate measures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure. 
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01541441-01541 (National defence and military operations)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 13, 2023August 16, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination produced its final report in early 2022;Whereas the report calls for clergy from religions which have a different view on gender and sexuality than the Department of National Defence to be banned as chaplains in the Canadian Armed Forces;Whereas the report slanders even mainstream Canadian religions as discriminatory, misogynist, and sexist;Whereas all Canadians, including members and chaplains of the Canadian Armed Forces, are entitled to the Charter-guaranteed right of freedom of religion;Whereas Canadian Armed Forces chaplains serve all members of the Forces without distinction on the basis of religion, gender, or sexual orientation; andWhereas discrimination on the basis of religion is wrong and offensive to Canadians.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Reject the recommendations on chaplaincy in the Canadian Armed Forces in the final report of the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination; and2. Affirm the right of all Canadians, including Canadian Armed Forces chaplains, to freedom of religion.
Response by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayIn April 2022, the Minister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination released a comprehensive set of recommendations to ensure Canada’s military is safe and welcoming for all. Work is underway to assess the implications of the Advisory Panel’s recommendations, including those on the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, and the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff is coordinating an analysis of each recommendation.The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service’s (RCChS) primary goal is the care of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, without exceptions. It is already the expectation that CAF chaplains uphold the values and ethos of the CAF, just like every other member of the military. When chaplains apply for their roles within the chaplaincy, they undergo a rigorous process to assess their ability to provide spiritual support within the context of CAF values. Anyone who successfully makes it through this assessment has demonstrated their ability to provide religious or spiritual counsel to CAF members of all or no faiths, without judgement or exception.To this end, the RCChS continues to embrace CAF values and ethos, and has taken significant steps in the past several years to strengthen its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For example, as of 2019, in order to better serve the CAF and represent the religious/spiritual diversity of Canadian society, the RCChS sought to include a wider number of traditions not previously represented in CAF chaplaincy. This resulted in the enrollment of chaplains from Sikh, Buddhist, and Humanist traditions. The RCChS also shifted from the historical requirement of “ordained” status to a more broadly defined status of “credentialed as a faith tradition leader.” In doing so, the RCChS has ensured wider opportunities for women from faith traditions where they cannot be ordained, but who meet qualification standards for CAF chaplaincy as credentialed faith tradition leaders. This is already the case for Roman Catholic and Muslim women, currently serving in the RCChS, and will now be an option for women from other faith traditions.To further promote diversity and inclusion, the RCChS has instituted several new advisor positions, including an Indigenous Advisor, 2SLGBTQi+ Advisor, Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Advisor, Gender Advisor, and Advisor to the Commander of Chief Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC) in an effort to raise awareness, educate, and innovate. These advisors play a critical role in providing strategic input and advice to ensure direction and guidance, and programs integrate diverse perspectives with a view to enhancing inclusive engagement on behalf of the RCChS. The CAF continues to take positive steps to ensure that the chaplaincy represents Canadian society and supports the needs of its broader membership.
Canadian ForcesChaplaincy services and chaplainsMinister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism, Discrimination with a focus on anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism, LGBTQ2+ Prejudice, Gender Bias and White SupremacyReligious discrimination
44th Parliament229Not certifiedSeptember 20, 2022e-4003e-4003 (Holidays and observances)ShaniceBurnettRubySahotaBrampton NorthLiberalONMay 20, 2022, at 2:42 p.m. (EDT)September 17, 2022, at 2:42 p.m. (EDT)September 20, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="2" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">House of Commons in Parliament assembled</Addressee>Whereas:Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) is a rare and relatively unknown autoimmune disease that currently has no cure;NMOSD attacks the central nervous system and can cause lifetime disability, including blindness and/or paralysis, and/or death;The cause of NMOSD is still a mystery with only a few approved treatments for the majority of patients with NMOSD; but no treatments for the remainder of patients;When mistaken for other diseases, treatments can exacerbate NMOSD symptoms;It is common for NMOSD patients to be misdiagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) as symptoms present similarly;It is estimated that between 1,000 and 3,000 Canadians are living with NMOSD, the disease being most commonly diagnosed among non-Caucasian women in their 20s to 40s;Better awareness of NMOSD by Health Canada would aid and educate patients, clinicians, and medical professionals so as to decrease misdiagnoses, wrong and harmful treatment plans, and provide national support for those living with NMOSD; andBy supporting an awareness initiative, the government of Canada would be recognizing the NMOSD community, and the need to provide readily available information on patient diagnosis, care, and treatment.We, the undersigned, Brampton, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to help drive awareness of NMOSD by acknowledging March as NMOSD Awareness Month.Neuromyelitis opticaNeuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01838441-01838 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 26, 2023December 11, 2023May 27, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezAs of June 20, 2022, the Government suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel, the federally regulated transportation sector, and federal government employees. Proof of vaccination is no longer required for travel within Canada or for those working in the federally regulated transportation sector; accommodations for remote communities are also no longer necessary.Other public health measures, under the authority of the Public Health Agency of Canada such as border entry restrictions, passenger testing, masking, quarantine and isolation requirements were also lifted on October 1, 2022.  
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01456441-01456 (National defence and military operations)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 15, 2023August 16, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination produced its final report in early 2022;Whereas the report calls for clergy from religions which have a different view on gender and sexuality than the Department of National Defence to be banned as chaplains in the Canadian Armed Forces;Whereas the report slanders even mainstream Canadian religions as discriminatory, misogynist, and sexist;Whereas all Canadians, including members and chaplains of the Canadian Armed Forces, are entitled to the Charter-guaranteed right of freedom of religion;Whereas Canadian Armed Forces chaplains serve all members of the Forces without distinction on the basis of religion, gender, or sexual orientation; andWhereas discrimination on the basis of religion is wrong and offensive to Canadians.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Reject the recommendations on chaplaincy in the Canadian Armed Forces in the final report of the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination; and2. Affirm the right of all Canadians, including Canadian Armed Forces chaplains, to freedom of religion.
Response by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayIn April 2022, the Minister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination released a comprehensive set of recommendations to ensure Canada’s military is safe and welcoming for all. Work is underway to assess the implications of the Advisory Panel’s recommendations, including those on the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, and the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff is coordinating an analysis of each recommendation.The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service’s (RCChS) primary goal is the care of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, without exceptions. It is already the expectation that CAF chaplains uphold the values and ethos of the CAF, just like every other member of the military. When chaplains apply for their roles within the chaplaincy, they undergo a rigorous process to assess their ability to provide spiritual support within the context of CAF values. Anyone who successfully makes it through this assessment has demonstrated their ability to provide religious or spiritual counsel to CAF members of all or no faiths, without judgement or exception.To this end, the RCChS continues to embrace CAF values and ethos, and has taken significant steps in the past several years to strengthen its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For example, as of 2019, in order to better serve the CAF and represent the religious/spiritual diversity of Canadian society, the RCChS sought to include a wider number of traditions not previously represented in CAF chaplaincy. This resulted in the enrollment of chaplains from Sikh, Buddhist, and Humanist traditions. The RCChS also shifted from the historical requirement of “ordained” status to a more broadly defined status of “credentialed as a faith tradition leader.” In doing so, the RCChS has ensured wider opportunities for women from faith traditions where they cannot be ordained, but who meet qualification standards for CAF chaplaincy as credentialed faith tradition leaders. This is already the case for Roman Catholic and Muslim women, currently serving in the RCChS, and will now be an option for women from other faith traditions.To further promote diversity and inclusion, the RCChS has instituted several new advisor positions, including an Indigenous Advisor, 2SLGBTQi+ Advisor, Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Advisor, Gender Advisor, and Advisor to the Commander of Chief Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC) in an effort to raise awareness, educate, and innovate. These advisors play a critical role in providing strategic input and advice to ensure direction and guidance, and programs integrate diverse perspectives with a view to enhancing inclusive engagement on behalf of the RCChS. The CAF continues to take positive steps to ensure that the chaplaincy represents Canadian society and supports the needs of its broader membership.
Canadian ForcesChaplaincy services and chaplainsMinister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism, Discrimination with a focus on anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism, LGBTQ2+ Prejudice, Gender Bias and White SupremacyReligious discrimination
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00584441-00584 (Environment)AlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordNDPBCJune 15, 2022August 17, 2022May 16, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.   
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2023441-01452441-01452 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 15, 2023June 20, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 6, 2023441-01325441-01325 (Civil and human rights)ZiadAboultaifEdmonton ManningConservativeABApril 24, 2023June 6, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00586441-00586 (Indigenous affairs)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJune 15, 2022September 20, 2022May 10, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS:For six years the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) listened to thousands of former students of residential schools and their families testify to the devastating legacy of this national policy of assimilation and published 94 Calls to Action for Canada to embrace reconciliation and overcome systemic racism; In February 2013 the Hon. Frank lacobucci issued his report, First Nations Representation on Ontario's Juries, describing and criticizing the underrepresentation of First Nations peoples on juries specifically and in Ontario's judicial administration system generally – a situation not unique to Ontario; and On February 7, 2018 the Parliament of Canada approved overwhelmingly the second reading of Bill C-262 to ensure that the laws of Canada are in harmony with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples. THEREFORE, YOUR PETITIONERS call on the House of Commons to immediately undertake to encourage the provinces to reform their jury selection systems and other judicial reforms and to enact its own reforms as described in the TRC Calls to Action 25-42 to ensure that justice is done and is seen to be done across the country with respect to all people, including Indigenous people.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOn June 21st, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act received Royal Assent and came into force. The Act provides a roadmap for the Government of Canada and Indigenous peoples to work together to implement the Declaration based on lasting reconciliation, healing, and cooperative relations. The first annual progress report on implementation of the Act was tabled in the House of Commons on June 21, 2022.Federal, provincial and territorial levels of government are responsible for enacting legislation that facilitates the empanelment of impartial, representative and competent juries. At the federal level, recent steps taken by the Government in this area include introducing legislation that was passed by Parliament (former Bill C-75), which included several Criminal Code amendments to improve the jury selection process. Notably, peremptory challenges were abolished. This change addressed concerns about the discriminatory use of peremptory challenges identified in several reports, including the Honourable Frank Iacobucci’s report First Nations Representation on Ontario Juries.The overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system is a serious and complex issue rooted in systemic discrimination and the legacy of colonialism. The Government of Canada introduced Bill C-5, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, as an important step in addressing systemic issues related to existing sentencing policies. These reforms would, among other things, repeal a number of mandatory minimum penalties and remove restrictions on the availability of conditional sentences.The Government continues to work to end violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, as well as the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, highlighted the nature and scope of violence experienced by Indigenous peoples and outlined pathways and actions to end this national tragedy. A National Action Plan was released on June 3, 2021, which included the Federal Pathway—the federal component of the National Action Plan. The Federal Pathway outlines the Government of Canada’s commitments for moving forward with a focus on culture, health and wellness, human safety and security, and justice. An update on the Federal Pathway was released on June 3, 2022, which reported on recent federal actions, as well as acknowledging the ongoing efforts required to meet our shared objective of protecting Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and addressing the root causes of violence.The Government of Canada is working on the development of an Indigenous Justice Strategy in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners, and the provinces and territories. The Government of Canada will continue to address the issues raised by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and work on implementing the Calls to Action as a vital part of advancing reconciliation.
Indigenous peoplesJury and jurors
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00855441-00855 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 22, 2022January 30, 2023May 2, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 7, 2022441-00423441-00423 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMay 9, 2022June 7, 2022May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraThroughout the pandemic, the Government of Canada has prioritized the health and safety of Canadians.Recognizing the importance and critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, Transport Canada has taken action throughout the pandemic to ensure the safety and security of the transportation network, its employees and its users.The measures that the Government of Canada has implemented have been and will continue to be based on the best public health advice and science available. As vaccination rates at home and around the world increase, and the epidemiological situation evolves, so too will the government’s response to the pandemic. In short, the government is committed to the safety and security of Canadians and will not hesitate to act to ensure this end.Vaccines work, they are safe and effective, and they are an important tool in the fight against the pandemic. They are our best line of defense.Since October 30, 2021 Transport Canada, using its authorities, required travellers departing from Canadian airports and travellers on VIA Rail, Rocky Mountaineer and Amtrak trains to be vaccinated. Vaccination requirements also apply to passengers on board cruise ships in Canada.In addition, in January 2022, in line with similar US measures, the Minister of Health, via the Quarantine Act, implemented vaccination requirements for certain foreign national essential workers entering Canada, including commercial truck drivers.The Government of Canada is committed to finding the responsible balance between measures that protect Canadians’ safety and supporting the recovery of Canada’s economy. Since the outset of the pandemic, Transport Canada has been engaging regularly with all levels of government and transportation industry stakeholders to identify emerging issues and mitigate disruptions. For example, Transport Canada has provided guidance to the road industry, including commercial vehicle operators, transportation workers and operators, in support of COVID-19 safety.The government continues to monitor, review, and adjust public health measures as necessary to ensure the safety of Canadians, and we remain committed to supporting essential transportation workers, while ensuring a coordinated response to the fight against COVID-19.As eager as Canadians are to return to their pre-pandemic lives, the reality is that the pandemic is not over.It is through widespread vaccination that a return to our pre-pandemic lives is possible. Anyone who has not received the vaccine - their first, second or booster - should do so as soon as possible. People who have doubts as to whether they should get the vaccine should speak with their physician.The government will continue to work alongside Canadians to support them as we navigate this once in a hundred-years pandemic, and come out stronger, and safer. 
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01502441-01502 (Civil and human rights)DanAlbasCentral Okanagan—Similkameen—NicolaConservativeBCJune 5, 2023September 18, 2023May 3, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01531441-01531 (Civil and human rights)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKJune 13, 2023September 18, 2023April 25, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01533441-01533 (Civil and human rights)MarcDaltonPitt Meadows—Maple RidgeConservativeBCJune 13, 2023September 18, 2023April 27, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 16, 2022441-00723441-00723 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 3, 2022November 16, 2022April 1, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 21, 2022441-00751441-00751 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 7, 2022November 21, 2022March 29, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our 2030 emissions reduction target and stay on track to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, such as hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published soon.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables in June 2022. The initiative will accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.This work will be undertaken in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous groups, experts, labour organizations and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00393441-00393 (Environment)JennyKwanVancouver EastNDPBCApril 8, 2022May 30, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada.  Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 23, 2022441-00445441-00445 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 11, 2022June 23, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the rule of law and respect for human rights and democracy;
  • The Putin regime invaded and occupied Crimea and the Donbas region of Eastern Ukraine in 2014, leading to the death of more than 14,000 Ukrainians;
  • The Government of Canada, NATO allies, and the European Union unanimously condemned the 2014 invasion of Ukraine;
  • Russian military forces have now conducted a subsequent large-scale invasion of Ukraine, dropping missiles on Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odessa, Mariupol and other cities in Ukraine, and killing many Ukrainian civilians and soldiers; and
  • The subsequent Russian invasion of Ukraine is a grave violation of international law and must be universally condemned.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Stand with the people of Ukraine in the threat faced towards Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity; 2. Call on the international community to take decisive action against the Putin regime, and ban Russia from international organizations, including the UNSC, OSCE, etc.; 3. Impose full and swift sanctions against the Putin regime, including the removal of Russia from the SWIFT international payments system; 4. Boycott Russian oil and gas imports in Canada and Europe, and secure energy agreements with Western partners; 5. Increase the supply of military equipment and lethal defensive weapons to protect the territory and human rights of the people of Ukraine; 6. Provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine; and 7. Provide vital assistance to refugees impacted by the conflict in Ukraine and allow Canadians with family members in Ukraine to urgently bring family members to Canada for as long as the conflict persists.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada has been at the forefront of the international community’s support for Ukraine and its people, and in its condemnation of the Russian leadership’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion. Among Canada’s economic measures, the Prime Minister announced on February 28, 2022, a ban on all imports of crude oil, gas and other petroleum products from Russia.Canada is working with allies bilaterally and in various multilateral fora including the G7, G20 and International Energy Agency to identify options to stabilize global energy markets and reduce Europe’s dependence on Russian oil and gas products, including through further exports. To this end, Canada recently announced an increase of oil and gas exports, the equivalent of up to 300,000 barrels per day by the end of 2022, with the intention of displacing Russian oil and gas while not increasing global emissions.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Canada is committed in our support for those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.On March 17, 2022, IRCC launched the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) to help Ukrainians and their family members come to Canada as quickly as possible and to provide them with the ability to work and study while in Canada.  The CUAET also gives those who are already in Canada the option to extend their visitor status, work permit or study permit so that they can continue to live and work or study in Canada temporarily.The CUAET is one of the many special measures the Government of Canada has introduced to support the people of Ukraine. It offers Ukrainians and their family members extended temporary status and allows them to work, study and stay in Canada until it is safe for them to return home.Ukrainians and their family members coming to Canada from overseas:
  • can apply for a fee exempt visitor visa and may be allowed to stay in Canada for 3 years, as opposed to the standard 6-month authorized stay for regular visitors;
  • have the option to apply for an open work permit with their visa application, enabling them to work as quickly as possible;
  • will have their electronic visa application processed within 14 days of receipt of a complete application, for standard, non-complex cases;
  • are exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements, but must meet all other public health requirements for travel, such as quarantine and testing. With limited exceptions, all travellers to Canada, including anyone arriving under the CUAET, must also use ArriveCAN;
  • are exempt from completing an immigration medical exam (IME) overseas, if applicable, but may be required to complete and pay for a medical diagnostic test within 90 days of arrival in Canada to screen for reportable communicable diseases (chest x-ray or suitable alternative and blood test).
Ukrainians and their family members who acquire or already have temporary status in Canada:
  • may apply to extend their temporary resident status for up to 3 years;
  • can leave and return to Canada at any time while their visa is valid;
  • may renew their work or study permit
  • may apply for a new work or study permit;
  • are eligible to attend elementary and secondary school;
  • may be required to complete and pay for an immigration medical exam (IME) if they haven’t completed one on initial entry to Canada.
All Ukrainians and their family members:
  • will have most of their application fees waived, including the visa application fee, biometric collection fee, work and study permit application fees, and visitor extension, and work and study permit renewal fees;
  • will have all their IRCC applications prioritized for processing (14 days for non complex and complete applications);
  • may apply for permanent residence under a variety of different immigration programs and streams if they are eligible to do so;
  • have access to IRCC’s dedicated service channel.      
IRCC has increased operational readiness in Europe in anticipation of an increased volume of requests. This includes relocating staff and moving additional supplies and equipment, such as mobile biometric collection kits. We are also adjusting operations in offices across our global network to ensure service continuity for Ukraine. Online options are available for most applications.There are currently no refugee resettlement commitments related to the situation in Ukraine. The CUAET is for Ukrainians and their family members who want to come to Canada temporarily while the situation in Ukraine unfolds. This new pathway allows for Ukrainians and their family members to seek temporary refuge in Canada, and return home when it is safe to do so or apply for permanent residency. IRCC has been working closely with other government departments, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, and others across the Ukrainian-Canadian community to ensure that all measures meet the needs of Ukrainians and their communities. IRCC will continue to engage with provinces and territories, and other partners as to how they can contribute and support the effort.
  • The Department is working quickly to ensure that Ukrainian Temporary Residents and their dependents in Canada are able to access federally-funded settlement services such as language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports as they settle into their new communities. Access to these supports will remain in place until March 31, 2023.
We have also created a Ukraine Cross-Sectoral Collaboration Governance Table, which will bring together settlement sector leadership, provincial and territorial representatives, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, the Canadian Red Cross, federal partners and other stakeholders. This table will facilitate communication and collaboration on the Ukraine response and will help to triage logistics for donations. The Budget 2022 provides additional funding to bolster Canada’s response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and details some measures already in place, including the funding of $111 million over 5 years, with $6 million in future years, to implement new immigration measures for Ukrainians. This funding will help to set up the new immigration pathways, expedite the processing of applications, and provide support to Ukrainians once they arrive in Canada.As of May 11, 2022, IRCC has received 223,664 applications under the CUAET and approved 104,553 of those applications.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence. Canada has committed over $262 million in military aid to Ukraine, including M-777 artillery guns, which Canadian troops are training Ukrainian forces on, 155 mm ammunition, small arms, Carl Gustav anti-tank weapons, anti-tank rocket launchers, drone cameras, Roshel smart armoured vehicles, de-mining equipment and satellite imagery. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada is supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion specifically, PSOPs has approved more than $10 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against over 1070 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation.Most recently, Canada sanctioned additional individuals and entities in the defence and financial sectors that were directly or indirectly supporting the Russian regime.Canada prohibited the export to Russia of certain luxury goods and goods that could be used in the manufacturing of weapons and the provision of 28 services to the Russian oil, gas and chemical industries. These include technical, management, accounting, and advertising services vital for the operation of these industries, which account for about 50% of Russia’s federal budget revenues. We also prohibited the import of certain luxury goods from Russia.Canada will complement these measures by banning sanctioned Russians from entering Canada. Legislative changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) have been introduced to ensure foreign nationals subject to sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) are inadmissible to Canada.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war. As per Canada’s commitments made as a member of the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO) multilateral taskforce, Canada has proposed legislative amendments that would allow for the seizure and forfeiture of assets belonging to sanctioned individuals and entities. The proceeds generated from the sale of these assets may be used for compensation to victims, the reconstruction of affected states, and the restoration of international peace and security. Canada will be a leader in this sanctions space once these new measures come into force. On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has provided $245 million in humanitarian assistance to UN, Red Cross, and NGO partners to respond to the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. This includes support for the World Food Programme in Ukraine to address food security needs, as well as a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada. Canada also sent 20 cargo flights with more than 377,000 essential relief items and financed the deployment of humanitarian exports to support the UN and Res Cross responses in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that is addressing emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they are better able to meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. In addition, Canada recently allocated $7 million in development assistance to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support those impacted by Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), as well as $2 million for the completion of a dairy plant in western Ukraine, to support food security efforts. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in bilateral loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $500 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Canada has offered up to $1.25 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account. To support the ICC investigations, Canada deployed an additional seven RCMP officers to the ICC and announced $1 million in funding to augment the court’s ability to investigate and prosecute conflict-related sexual violence and crimes against children. Canada is also supporting the deployment of two experts from the UN Women roster to support the UN Human Rights Council Commission of Inquiry (COI) on issues of sexual violence and gender.Canada coordinated a joint statement, issued on May 20 with 43 signatories, expressing support for Ukraine’s application against Russia at the International Court of Justice. Ukraine’s application seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. Canada also welcomed the Court’s provisional measures order ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine, and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission and a subsequent follow-up mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with like-minded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of June 7, almost 40, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. As of June 2, three charter flights from Poland have arrived in Winnipeg, Montreal, and Halifax.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of June 15, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Provision of Military FundingIn September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since February 2022, National Defence has committed $274 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, drone cameras, funding for high-resolution satellite imagery, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Canada has committed $147.3 million of the $500 million announced in assistance to Ukraine in Budget 2022. From this funding, Canada is donating over 20,000 rounds of 155mm NATO-standard ammunition, which are compatible with the heavy artillery systems that Canada has already delivered. Canada will also provide 10 replacement barrels to enable to sustainment of these systems and to maintain their distance range and accuracy. We are working around the clock to commit military aid with the remainder of these funds.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help. Most recently, the Minister had another productive meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart during the third meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, on the margins of NATO’s Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two tactical aircrafts to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered nearly 2 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations.
RussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00696441-00696 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 26, 2022November 14, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00657441-00657 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01089441-01089 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01075441-01075 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 30, 2023March 20, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2022441-00447441-00447 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 11, 2022June 9, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2022441-00421441-00421 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMay 9, 2022June 20, 2022March 9, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 22, 2022441-00429441-00429 (Social affairs and equality)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBMay 10, 2022June 22, 2022March 3, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, residents of the province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • Canada's seniors should be a priority for all of us;
  • There are programs that support Canada's seniors like OAS and the GIS along with other public and private financial support programs that ensure seniors have financial means;
  • Governments and senior support groups often encourage and provide support programs like Canada's New Horizons Program which provides grants or Age and Opportunity groups that provide services;
  • Governments of all levels need to work together on issues like long term care and mental health for our seniors; and
  • It is important that leaders in our communities recognize the value of supporting our seniors who continue to contribute to who we are as a society no matter what their personal disposition might be.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon Canada's Members of Parliament to encourage, promote and advocate for the needs of our seniors.
Response by the Minister of SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): DARREN FISHERThe Government of Canada values the contribution that seniors have made and continue to make to our country, our communities, our workplaces and our families. The government is delivering on a number of commitments to provide support to Canadian seniors, to ensure their financial security, social inclusion, well-being and quality of life.While the percentage of seniors living in poverty decreased from 7.0% in 2015 to 5.4% in 2019, we know that some seniors still struggle to make ends meet. This is why our Government has taken further actions to reduce poverty. In 2018, the Government introduced Opportunity for All – Canada’s First Poverty Reduction Strategy. The Strategy offers a bold vision for Canada without poverty. It also sets concrete targets to reduce poverty amongst all Canadians, including seniors: by 20% by 2020; and by 50% by 2030; relative to 2015 levels. The Government’s poverty reduction efforts are already showing positive effects. According to the Canadian Income Survey, the poverty rate decreased by 30% from 2015 to 2019. This means that Canada has exceeded its interim target to reduce poverty by 20 percent by 2020. Between 2015 and 2019, over 1.3 million Canadians were lifted out of poverty, including 45,000 seniors.The Government supports seniors through a strong and stable retirement income system consisting of three pillars that Canadians can count on to be there today and into the future.  The first pillar is the residence-based, monthly Old Age Security (OAS) pension and the income-tested Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income seniors.  Benefits under the OAS program include the OAS pension, which is paid to all persons aged 65 or over who meet the residence requirements, the GIS for low-income seniors, and the Allowances for low-income Canadians aged 60 to 64 who are the spouses or common-law partners of GIS recipients, or who are widows or widowers.The second pillar is the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), a social insurance program that is funded by the contributions of employees, employers and self-employed persons, and by the revenue earned on CPP investments. It covers virtually all employed and self-employed persons in Canada, excluding Quebec, which operates its own comprehensive plan, the Québec Pension Plan. The intent of the CPP is to provide contributors and their families with minimum basic income replacement upon the retirement, disability or death of a wage earner.  As an income replacement program, the amount of CPP benefits are generally based on each earner’s contributions to the CPP over their lifetime.  While primarily a retirement plan, the CPP also provides supplementary disability and survivor benefits, which reflect the social insurance nature of the Plan and are not a direct return on contributions.The OAS and CPP work together to provide a stable base upon which individuals can add income from private third pillar measures, such as employer-sponsored pension plans, registered retirement savings plans, tax-free savings accounts and other personal savings and investments, to address their particular financial circumstances.To ensure that they retain their value over time, OAS benefits are reviewed four times per year (in January, April, July and October) and CPP benefits are reviewed annually (in January) in accordance with changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI measures the price of a typical “basket” of goods and services, such as food, shelter, gas and clothing, commonly purchased by Canadian households. The quarterly indexation provides benefit increases to recipients when prices go up. In addition, the Old Age Security Act and the Canada Pension Plan each contain a guarantee ensuring that benefits can never go down, even in the event of a decline in the CPI.The Government of Canada remains committed to improving the income security of seniors and continues to seek ways to strengthen the OAS program, as demonstrated by a broad range of measures taken since 2015:
  • Budget 2016 restored the age of eligibility for the OAS pension and the GIS to 65, putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of future Canadian seniors.
  • In July 2016, the GIS was increased by up to $947 per year for the lowest-income single seniors, benefiting close to 900,000 vulnerable seniors across Canada.
  • In December 2017, the Government launched automatic enrolment to the GIS. Seniors who are automatically enrolled for the OAS pension are now automatically enrolled for the GIS without ever having to complete an application.
  • In Budget 2019, the Government enhanced the GIS earnings exemption so that low-income seniors who work are able to keep more of what they earn. As of July 2020, the enhanced exemption applies to both employment and self-employment income, and provides a full exemption on up to $5,000 of annual earnings, as well as a 50% exemption on the next $10,000 of earnings. This means that low-income seniors who work can keep more of their benefits.
The Government has also introduced several measures to protect seniors’ financial security during the COVID-19 pandemic. These included, in 2020, a one-time tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for the OAS pension, with an additional tax-free payment of $200 for seniors eligible for the GIS. This measure provided a total of $500 to low-income seniors who received both the OAS pension and the GIS. Allowance recipients also received $500.More recently, in Budget 2021, the Government committed to moving forward with investments that give Canadian seniors a better quality of life, including stronger financial security. In July 2022, the Government will increase the OAS pension by 10 percent for seniors aged 75 or over. In order to help address the immediate needs of this group of seniors, the Government provided a one-time payment of $500 in August 2021 to OAS pensioners who will be aged 75 or over as of June 30, 2022.Budget 2021 committed $90 million from 2021-22 to 2023-24 to support seniors in their homes through the Age Well at Home initiative. The timeframe for this initiative was recently extended to the end of fiscal year 2024-25.Age Well at Home will provide funding to local seniors-serving organizations to provide practical supports, such as meals, light housekeeping, yard work and transportation, to help low-income and otherwise vulnerable seniors stay at home longer. This initiative will also support regional and national projects that help expand services that have already demonstrated results in helping seniors stay in their homes. For example, knowledge hubs can help seniors access the local services available to them or provide information, resources and training to seniors-serving organizations delivering practical supports to seniors.The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) supports the Government of Canada’s overarching social goals to enhance the quality of life, and promote the full participation of individuals, including seniors, in all aspects of Canadian society.  The Program helps to ensure that seniors can benefit from and contribute to the quality of life in their communities. The NHSP promotes volunteerism among seniors and other generations; engages seniors in the community through mentoring of others; expands awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse; supports social participation and inclusion of seniors; and provides capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors.The NHSP reinforces that seniors are valuable assets to communities. By empowering seniors and encouraging them to share their knowledge, skills and experience with others in the community, the NHSP enhances seniors’ social well-being and community vitality. Seniors today contribute to their community, organizations and broader society by volunteering, participating in, and leading community activities. Since 2004, the NHSP has funded more than 30,500 projects with a total investment of more than $660 million.Addressing the issues faced by seniors is not only about the action of governments. Meaningful contributions are needed from a broad coalition of stakeholders. The Government receives valuable advice from a number of partners and stakeholders to inform its work.  For example, the National Seniors Council, established in 2007, provides advice to the federal government, through the Minister of Seniors and Minister of Health, on matters related to the well-being, quality of life and health of seniors. Additionally, through the FPT Seniors Forum, federal, provincial and territorial ministers and officials discuss issues of importance to seniors, share information on seniors’ wellbeing, and undertake initiatives to advance issues of common concern.The Government looks forward to continuing to work with the National Seniors Council, provinces, territories and other key stakeholders to support Canada’s seniors of today and tomorrow.  
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadians, including seniors, through the development of policies, programs, and initiatives that promote the health, wellbeing, and quality of life of older adults, and through addressing issues in long-term care.The Government of Canada supports and promotes various international initiatives related to aging and health, including the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) Age-Friendly Communities Model. An age-friendly community is one that is designed to help seniors live safely, enjoy good health and stay involved. In an age-friendly community, structures and services are adapted to the needs of older people. These efforts continue to grow around the world and in Canada, where we now have over 1,400 communities across the country working to become more age-friendly. The Prime Minister has tasked the Minister of Health, in the context of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing, with working to promote seniors’ physical and mental health to enable them to live longer at home. This includes supporting the Minister of Seniors in their work to establish an expert panel to provide recommendations for establishing an Aging at Home Benefit.Canadians ultimately want to age at home or in their community, close to family and loved ones. That is why the Federal Government is providing $6 billion over ten years – starting in 2017 – for provinces and territories to improve access to home and community care services, including palliative care. This investment is helping more Canadians receive the care and services they need so that they may remain at home longer.The COVID-19 pandemic has also tragically exposed long-standing issues affecting long-term care facilities across the country. While the provision of long-term care falls under the jurisdiction of the provinces and territories, the Federal Government is working collaboratively with provinces and territories to improve the quality and availability of long-term care, and to support training and better wages for personal support workers. The Minister of Health’s most recent mandate letter reiterates the Government’s commitment to ensuring seniors get the care they deserve. This commitment builds on past efforts to support long-term care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.To address significant challenges revealed during COVID-19, in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Federal Government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care Fund. This fund is transferring $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care. Provinces and territories are able to use this money to improve infection prevention and control in facilities, including to assess infection prevention and control readiness, improve infrastructure such as ventilation, and address workforce gaps, including hiring more staff or raising wages.In addition, Budget 2021 announced a further $3 billion investment, starting in 2022-23, to support provinces and territories in their efforts to ensure standards for long-term care are applied and permanent changes are made. This funding will help support workforce stability, including through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions (e.g. staff to patient ratios, hours of work) and strengthened enforcement (e.g., enhanced inspection and enforcement capacity, quality and safety improvements to meet standards), including through accreditation and regular inspections. The Federal Government will work collaboratively with provinces and territories to flow this funding as part of our collective efforts to make sure that seniors and others in care settings live in safe and dignified conditions. The Federal Government also welcomed the news that the Health Standards Organization and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group) are conducting an independent process to develop new national standards for long-term care. Both organisations have conducted extensive public consultations, completed a 60-day public review of their draft long-term care standards, and expect to release the final standards by December 2022. This is an important step to improving care for seniors that will set the bar higher for safe and respectful care in these facilities.The Federal Government has also responded to COVID-19 in long-term care facilities in a number of other ways:
  • $740M to provinces and territories for vulnerable populations, including those in long-term care, as part of the Safe Restart Agreement in 2020;
  • Workforce supports from the Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian Red Cross in long-term care facilities;
  • Public Health Agency of Canada Guidance on infection prevention and control and patient care in long-term care / home care during the pandemic;
  • Enhanced supply and coordination of personal protective equipment;
  • Procurement and coordination support for rapid testing and vaccines;
  • Funding for Healthcare Excellence Canada’s LTC+ program, to share best practices across long-term care facilities and seniors’ residences; and,
  • Programs coordinated by Employment and Social Development Canada for training and work placements for personal support worker interns.
Seniors deserve to be safe, respected, and live in dignity. The Federal Government continues to work in collaboration with provinces and territories to ensure seniors get the care they deserve, foster aging at home, and increase the resilience of long-term care facilities in order to prevent and mitigate challenges, including COVID-19.Our Government also has an important role to play in supporting evidence-based best practices to promote healthy aging. In 2018, the Government of Canada invested $75 million for the Healthy Seniors Pilot Project in New Brunswick. This project is examining how governments can better support seniors in their homes, communities and care facilities. The projects supported by this initiative are addressing a wide range of issues related to the health of older people.Dementia is also having a significant and growing impact in Canada, with more than 450,000 Canadians aged 65 and older with a diagnosis (2017-18). This number is expected to rise as Canada’s aging population increases. In 2019, Canada released its first national dementia strategy, A Dementia Strategy for Canada: Together We Aspire. The Government of Canada is supporting the strategy’s implementation through investments in research, awareness raising, guidance, surveillance, and community-based projects. Furthermore, Budget 2022 proposes to provide $30 million over three years, starting in 2022-23, to the Public Health Agency of Canada, for the Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation to help accelerate innovations in brain health and aging. Budget 2022 also proposes to provide $20 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to ramp up efforts to learn more about dementia and brain health, to improve treatment and outcomes for persons living with dementia, and to evaluate and address mental health consequences for caregivers and different models of care.The commitment to support the mental health of Canadians, including seniors, is reflected in a number of ongoing investments. Through bilateral agreements with provinces and territories, the Government is investing $5 billion over ten years (2017-2027) to support increased access to mental health and substance use services. The Government is also continuing to work with partners and stakeholders to develop National Standards for Mental Health and Substance Use Services. Once developed and voluntarily implemented, standards will help to support an evidence-based framework for service delivery that the public, service providers, and policy makers can rely on.The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected older adults who continue to experience a range of negative impacts as a result of the pandemic and has necessitated an increased need for mental health supports. To support older Canadians, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has released guidance, information, and awareness resources on topics important to seniors’ health. In addition, through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million over three years, starting in 2021-22, to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including older adults.Seniors are also able to access the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) portal, launched by the Government in response to the increased need for mental health services resulting from the pandemic. Through the WTC portal, individuals across Canada can access free, 24/7, credible information and supports in both official languages to help address mental health and substance use issues. The portal offers services across the continuum of care, from self-guided resources to live coaching, peer support and counselling (including by telephone), allowing users to seamlessly “step” up or down to a different intensity of support appropriate for their needs. To help clients (including seniors) navigate the portal, a dedicated phone line is available for speaking with Program Navigators who can assist with finding the appropriate resources. Budget 2022 aims to provide $140M over two years, starting in 2022-23, in support of the WTC portal, so that it can continue to provide Canadians with tools and services to support their mental health and well-being.The Government recognizes that, as Canada heads into post-pandemic recovery, additional mental health supports will be needed. As a result, the first Minister of Mental Health and Addictions will seek to make mental health a full and equal part of the healthcare system, by delivering on a number of commitments, including engaging with provinces and territories to inform the development of a new Canada Mental Health Transfer.The Government of Canada will continue to engage with key partners and stakeholders to build evidence, raise awareness, and develop resources on key seniors’ health issues. Budget 2022 also proposes the creation of an expert panel that will report to the Minister of Seniors and the Minister of Health to study the idea of an Aging At Home Benefit. All of these commitments and investments in mental health, healthy aging, dementia, and long-term care ensure a better future for Canadians.
Senior citizensSocial benefits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01816441-01816 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023March 9, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00489441-00489 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 17, 2022June 21, 2022March 25, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with Chinese counterparts at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to call upon Chinese authorities to grant consular access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being and offer consular assistance.Canada will always advocate for Canadian citizens abroad, each and every time.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00520441-00520 (Natural resources and energy)JeremyPatzerCypress Hills—GrasslandsConservativeSKJune 6, 2022August 17, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The development of Canada's natural resources is a central sector of the national economy as a whole;
  • Canadian energy companies are key investors and stakeholders for developing renewable energy while, at the same time, they produce oil and gas according to high standards;
  • Community infrastructure and municipalities have been relying on significant funding provided by this industry;
  • Canada's natural resource sector, including oil and gas, will provide stability as a source of jobs and investment for economic recovery;
  • Prior to declared states of emergency and restrictions in response to COVID-19, there were an estimated 200,000 jobs lost since 2015;
  • Statistics Canada recorded an additional 23,600 jobs lost in the energy industry as of September 2020; and
  • According to Statistics Canada, for each job lost in the oil and gas industry there are six jobs lost in other industries.
THEREFORE, we, the undersigned residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to take immediate action, at every opportunity, for supporting and promoting Canadian energy projects and industry domestically and internationally, for the benefit of workers, families, and communities.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada’s natural resource sectors have played a major role in Canada’s economic success and its prosperity. The traditional resource industries – oil and gas, mining and forestry— have been and continue to be extremely important to Canada’s economy. These industries support a significant portion of economic activities and directly and indirectly employ hundreds of thousands of Canadians.The Government of Canada recognizes that a secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and export products and technologies around the world.  The Government of Canada also recognizes that a real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one that ensures a cleaner environment and significant opportunities to Canadian workers.Canada’s oil and gas sector has made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, the government announced that Canada will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with Canada’s climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, services and products. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future and a stronger economy, poised to seize low-carbon opportunities. The Government will continue to work with carbon-intensive industries to achieve our net-zero targets, and will remain a strong advocate for a clean energy transition built on Canada’s non-emitting power advantage.The Government of Canada is also committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at areas of growth in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers to address labour market shortages in emerging clean growth areas.In July 2021, public consultations were launched on proposed just transition legislation with a broad range of stakeholders; this has largely been completed. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations and a “What we Heard” report will be published to inform Canadians of the views that were shared.The Government of Canada understands the importance of the country’s natural resources to Canadians, providing jobs and opportunities that contribute to local communities, and the national economy. Canada will continue to play a key role in supplying the world’s future energy needs, as Canadians work towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The Government of Canada recognizes that the energy sector has a significant role to play and a strong energy sector will help to ensure that the environment is protected as it drives economic growth. Canada is well positioned to provide the world with the cleanest, cutting-edge innovations, while creating good jobs for Canadians, not just now but for decades to come.Ongoing and proposed federal support to Canada’s energy sector includes:
  • Investing $1.5 billion in the Clean Fuels Fund, to support the build out of new domestic production capacity for clean fuels (e.g. renewable natural gas, hydrogen, advanced ethanol, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuels), the establishment of sustainable biomass supply chains, and the development of essential binational codes and standards.
  • Developing a carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) strategy to cut industrial emissions, including the introduction of a refundable investment tax credit for businesses that incur eligible CCUS expenses (starting in 2022), and investing $319 million over seven years to support research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) to advance the commercial viability of CCUS technologies.
  • Launching the Hydrogen Strategy for Canada, which lays out an ambitious framework to help cement hydrogen’s role in reducing emissions and leading to economic benefits across Canada while also positioning Canada as a leader in hydrogen. Vast natural resources endow Canada with a competitive advantage in the production of clean hydrogen.
  • Investing $600 million to expand the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program, which supports smart renewable energy and electrical grid modernization projects to help provide essential grid services while supporting Canada’s equitable transition to an electrified economy.
  • Investing $194 million to expand the Industrial Energy Efficiency Management Program, which supports ISO 50001 certification, energy managers, cohort-based training, audits, and energy efficiency focused retrofits to help Canada’s industrial sectors adopt cleaner technology.
  • Establishing the Canada Growth Fund - a significant new $15 billion government investment fund that will accelerate the investment of private capital into decarbonisation and clean technology projects, help to promote the diversification of Canada’s economy and exports, play a key role in helping to meet Canada’s climate targets, and support the restructuring of critical supply chains in our natural resources sector.
  • Broadening the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s (CIB) role to invest in private sector-led infrastructure projects that will accelerate Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. This will allow the CIB to invest in small modular reactors; clean fuel production; hydrogen production, transportation and distribution; and CCUS.
On June 1, 2022, Natural Resources Canada formally launched the first phase of the Regional Energy and Resource Tables Initiative, to collaborate with provincial and territorial governments to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to support its energy and natural resources sectors in building a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Oil and gas
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2022441-00757441-00757 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 18, 2022December 1, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with Chinese counterparts at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to call upon Chinese authorities to grant consular access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being and offer consular assistance.Canada will always advocate for Canadian citizens abroad, each and every time.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00680441-00680 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with Chinese counterparts at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to call upon Chinese authorities to grant consular access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being and offer consular assistance.Canada will always advocate for Canadian citizens abroad, each and every time.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 23, 2022441-00433441-00433 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 10, 2022June 23, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the rule of law and respect for human rights and democracy;
  • The Putin regime invaded and occupied Crimea and the Donbas region of Eastern Ukraine in 2014, leading to the death of more than 14,000 Ukrainians;
  • The Government of Canada, NATO allies, and the European Union unanimously condemned the 2014 invasion of Ukraine;
  • Russian military forces have now conducted a subsequent large-scale invasion of Ukraine, dropping missiles on Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odessa, Mariupol and other cities in Ukraine, and killing many Ukrainian civilians and soldiers; and
  • The subsequent Russian invasion of Ukraine is a grave violation of international law and must be universally condemned.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Stand with the people of Ukraine in the threat faced towards Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity; 2. Call on the international community to take decisive action against the Putin regime, and ban Russia from international organizations, including the UNSC, OSCE, etc.; 3. Impose full and swift sanctions against the Putin regime, including the removal of Russia from the SWIFT international payments system; 4. Boycott Russian oil and gas imports in Canada and Europe, and secure energy agreements with Western partners; 5. Increase the supply of military equipment and lethal defensive weapons to protect the territory and human rights of the people of Ukraine; 6. Provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine; and 7. Provide vital assistance to refugees impacted by the conflict in Ukraine and allow Canadians with family members in Ukraine to urgently bring family members to Canada for as long as the conflict persists.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada has been at the forefront of the international community’s support for Ukraine and its people, and in its condemnation of the Russian leadership’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion. Among Canada’s economic measures, the Prime Minister announced on February 28, 2022, a ban on all imports of crude oil, gas and other petroleum products from Russia.Canada is working with allies bilaterally and in various multilateral fora including the G7, G20 and International Energy Agency to identify options to stabilize global energy markets and reduce Europe’s dependence on Russian oil and gas products, including through further exports. To this end, Canada recently announced an increase of oil and gas exports, the equivalent of up to 300,000 barrels per day by the end of 2022, with the intention of displacing Russian oil and gas while not increasing global emissions.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Canada is committed in our support for those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.On March 17, 2022, IRCC launched the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) to help Ukrainians and their family members come to Canada as quickly as possible and to provide them with the ability to work and study while in Canada.  The CUAET also gives those who are already in Canada the option to extend their visitor status, work permit or study permit so that they can continue to live and work or study in Canada temporarily.The CUAET is one of the many special measures the Government of Canada has introduced to support the people of Ukraine. It offers Ukrainians and their family members extended temporary status and allows them to work, study and stay in Canada until it is safe for them to return home.Ukrainians and their family members coming to Canada from overseas:
  • can apply for a fee exempt visitor visa and may be allowed to stay in Canada for 3 years, as opposed to the standard 6-month authorized stay for regular visitors;
  • have the option to apply for an open work permit with their visa application, enabling them to work as quickly as possible;
  • will have their electronic visa application processed within 14 days of receipt of a complete application, for standard, non-complex cases;
  • are exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements, but must meet all other public health requirements for travel, such as quarantine and testing. With limited exceptions, all travellers to Canada, including anyone arriving under the CUAET, must also use ArriveCAN;
  • are exempt from completing an immigration medical exam (IME) overseas, if applicable, but may be required to complete and pay for a medical diagnostic test within 90 days of arrival in Canada to screen for reportable communicable diseases (chest x-ray or suitable alternative and blood test).
Ukrainians and their family members who acquire or already have temporary status in Canada:
  • may apply to extend their temporary resident status for up to 3 years;
  • can leave and return to Canada at any time while their visa is valid;
  • may renew their work or study permit
  • may apply for a new work or study permit;
  • are eligible to attend elementary and secondary school;
  • may be required to complete and pay for an immigration medical exam (IME) if they haven’t completed one on initial entry to Canada.
All Ukrainians and their family members:
  • will have most of their application fees waived, including the visa application fee, biometric collection fee, work and study permit application fees, and visitor extension, and work and study permit renewal fees;
  • will have all their IRCC applications prioritized for processing (14 days for non complex and complete applications);
  • may apply for permanent residence under a variety of different immigration programs and streams if they are eligible to do so;
  • have access to IRCC’s dedicated service channel.      
IRCC has increased operational readiness in Europe in anticipation of an increased volume of requests. This includes relocating staff and moving additional supplies and equipment, such as mobile biometric collection kits. We are also adjusting operations in offices across our global network to ensure service continuity for Ukraine. Online options are available for most applications.There are currently no refugee resettlement commitments related to the situation in Ukraine. The CUAET is for Ukrainians and their family members who want to come to Canada temporarily while the situation in Ukraine unfolds. This new pathway allows for Ukrainians and their family members to seek temporary refuge in Canada, and return home when it is safe to do so or apply for permanent residency. IRCC has been working closely with other government departments, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, and others across the Ukrainian-Canadian community to ensure that all measures meet the needs of Ukrainians and their communities. IRCC will continue to engage with provinces and territories, and other partners as to how they can contribute and support the effort.
  • The Department is working quickly to ensure that Ukrainian Temporary Residents and their dependents in Canada are able to access federally-funded settlement services such as language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports as they settle into their new communities. Access to these supports will remain in place until March 31, 2023.
We have also created a Ukraine Cross-Sectoral Collaboration Governance Table, which will bring together settlement sector leadership, provincial and territorial representatives, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, the Canadian Red Cross, federal partners and other stakeholders. This table will facilitate communication and collaboration on the Ukraine response and will help to triage logistics for donations. The Budget 2022 provides additional funding to bolster Canada’s response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and details some measures already in place, including the funding of $111 million over 5 years, with $6 million in future years, to implement new immigration measures for Ukrainians. This funding will help to set up the new immigration pathways, expedite the processing of applications, and provide support to Ukrainians once they arrive in Canada.As of May 11, 2022, IRCC has received 223,664 applications under the CUAET and approved 104,553 of those applications.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence. Canada has committed over $262 million in military aid to Ukraine, including M-777 artillery guns, which Canadian troops are training Ukrainian forces on, 155 mm ammunition, small arms, Carl Gustav anti-tank weapons, anti-tank rocket launchers, drone cameras, Roshel smart armoured vehicles, de-mining equipment and satellite imagery. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada is supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion specifically, PSOPs has approved more than $10 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against over 1070 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation.Most recently, Canada sanctioned additional individuals and entities in the defence and financial sectors that were directly or indirectly supporting the Russian regime.Canada prohibited the export to Russia of certain luxury goods and goods that could be used in the manufacturing of weapons and the provision of 28 services to the Russian oil, gas and chemical industries. These include technical, management, accounting, and advertising services vital for the operation of these industries, which account for about 50% of Russia’s federal budget revenues. We also prohibited the import of certain luxury goods from Russia.Canada will complement these measures by banning sanctioned Russians from entering Canada. Legislative changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) have been introduced to ensure foreign nationals subject to sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) are inadmissible to Canada.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war. As per Canada’s commitments made as a member of the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO) multilateral taskforce, Canada has proposed legislative amendments that would allow for the seizure and forfeiture of assets belonging to sanctioned individuals and entities. The proceeds generated from the sale of these assets may be used for compensation to victims, the reconstruction of affected states, and the restoration of international peace and security. Canada will be a leader in this sanctions space once these new measures come into force. On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has provided $245 million in humanitarian assistance to UN, Red Cross, and NGO partners to respond to the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. This includes support for the World Food Programme in Ukraine to address food security needs, as well as a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada. Canada also sent 20 cargo flights with more than 377,000 essential relief items and financed the deployment of humanitarian exports to support the UN and Res Cross responses in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that is addressing emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they are better able to meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. In addition, Canada recently allocated $7 million in development assistance to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support those impacted by Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), as well as $2 million for the completion of a dairy plant in western Ukraine, to support food security efforts. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in bilateral loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $500 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Canada has offered up to $1.25 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account. To support the ICC investigations, Canada deployed an additional seven RCMP officers to the ICC and announced $1 million in funding to augment the court’s ability to investigate and prosecute conflict-related sexual violence and crimes against children. Canada is also supporting the deployment of two experts from the UN Women roster to support the UN Human Rights Council Commission of Inquiry (COI) on issues of sexual violence and gender.Canada coordinated a joint statement, issued on May 20 with 43 signatories, expressing support for Ukraine’s application against Russia at the International Court of Justice. Ukraine’s application seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. Canada also welcomed the Court’s provisional measures order ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine, and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission and a subsequent follow-up mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with like-minded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of June 7, almost 40, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. As of June 2, three charter flights from Poland have arrived in Winnipeg, Montreal, and Halifax.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of June 15, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Provision of Military FundingIn September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since February 2022, National Defence has committed $274 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, drone cameras, funding for high-resolution satellite imagery, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Canada has committed $147.3 million of the $500 million announced in assistance to Ukraine in Budget 2022. From this funding, Canada is donating over 20,000 rounds of 155mm NATO-standard ammunition, which are compatible with the heavy artillery systems that Canada has already delivered. Canada will also provide 10 replacement barrels to enable to sustainment of these systems and to maintain their distance range and accuracy. We are working around the clock to commit military aid with the remainder of these funds.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help. Most recently, the Minister had another productive meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart during the third meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, on the margins of NATO’s Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two tactical aircrafts to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered nearly 2 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations.
RussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 4, 2022441-00199441-00199 (Infrastructure)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 17, 2022April 4, 2022February 11, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The National Capital Commission (NCC) recommended the release of 53 acres of surplus federal office land at Tunney's Pasture for the new Ottawa Hospital;
  • The NCC ran a six-month public consultation, worked with the current hospital on developing 21 site criteria, and evaluated 12 different sites, in reaching their recommendation;
  • The City of Ottawa seemed to accept the recommendation but 72 hours later switched the site to a pristine green space that is popular for outdoor activities;
  • The decision to switch sites was made without any studies on the environmental, transportation or health impacts of the switch;
  • The proposed private/public development plan contains 17 acres of parking, including a four-story parking structure on what is now Queen Juliana Park;
  • Queen Juliana Park was established to honour the 7,600 Canadians who died liberating the Netherlands and serves as the site of popular Algonquin Pow Wows in the summer;
  • The sudden switch to the farm made available three to four billion dollars worth of developable land at the NCC recommended site;
  • A panel of Ottawa residents convened themselves to review the decision;
  • The panel included a former Ontario Superior court judge, Mme Monique Metivier, an internationally celebrated Canadian medical physicist, Dr. David W.O. Rogers, a distinguished Canadian environmental engineer, Dr. Frank Johnson, and an award winning international investigative journalist, Dr. Declan Hill;
  • The panel sought answers from the City of Ottawa but did not receive any;
  • The panel unanimously resolved to call for a public inquiry; and
  • More than 8,000 Canadians have signed a Change.org petition calling for a public inquiry.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Restore the National Capital Commission's recommendation of Tunney's Pasture as the ideal site for the new Ottawa hospital;
  • Preserve Queen Juliana Park and the entire Central Experimental Farm as greenspaces; and
  • Support the panel's request for a public inquiry, led by the Province of Ontario, into why the NCC's site recommendation was set aside so quickly and summarily.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MP
  • The Central Experimental Farm (CEF) is an important cultural landscape contributing scientifically and culturally to the legacy of Canadian agriculture.
  • AAFC takes its role as the custodian of the CEF site very seriously.
  • The CEF was designated a National Historic Site in 1998. As part of its obligation with respect to this designation, AAFC developed a National Historic Site Management Plan (Central Experimental Farm National Historic Site Management Plan (1 of 20) - agriculture.canada.ca) to guide future development on the site and to ensure that the Farm maintains its historical and cultural significance.
  • AAFC works with partners such as Parks Canada in support of protecting the CEF’s heritage and historic value, including both the site and the structures / buildings found within its boundaries.
  • Development on the site is subject to the National Capital Commission Federal Land Use, Design and Transaction Approvals process, where all elements of any development are considered, including the national historic site components.  These elements complement the consultative nature of the process, including heritage impact assessments and engagement with key stakeholders.
  • Through the Central Experimental Farm Advisory Council, AAFC representatives work with community representatives and stakeholders in the interest of preserving the site. Membership includes the Friends of the Central Experimental Farm, The Canada Agriculture Museum, the 4H Council of Canada, Heritage Ottawa, the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects, the Federation of Citizen's Associations of Ottawa, the National Trust for Canada, and the Canadian Institute of Planners.
  • Although AAFC is no longer owner of the lands on which the new Civic Campus will be located, we continue to work with federal partners and The Ottawa Hospital in the interest of respecting the historic value of the property as a whole, including the ongoing operation of the Central Experimental Farm and the Ottawa Research and Development Centre.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherThe Government acknowledges its receipt of Petition 441-00207 regarding the proposed site for the Ottawa Hospital (TOH).The National Capital Commission does not have responsibility for the Ottawa Hospital or any decisions regarding location of a new site. The Government remains committed to the important research that the Central Experimental Farm undertakes, which provides benefits to farmers and the agricultural industry across Canada. 
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTUnder the Impact Assessment Act (IAA) every authority that exercises a power, performs a duty or function conferred to it under an Act of Parliament, provides financial assistance, or is the proponent of a proposed project on federal lands is required to make an environmental effects determination unless the project is designated by Ministerial Order under section 88 of the IAA. There may be multiple authorities required to make an environmental effects determination for an individual project. Both the National Capital Commission and Public Services and Procurement Canada are required to undertake an environmental effects determination for the new Ottawa Hospital project proposed on federal lands. As part of these obligations, public notices are posted on the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry (the Registry) to invite comments and announce their environmental effects determination decision. Information related to The Ottawa Hospital's new Civic development - Phase 2 parking garage, green roof and various supporting projects was posted on the Registry on November 15, 2021 (https://iaac-aeic.gc.ca/050/evaluations/proj/83161). The scope of the determination must include a consideration of impacts to Indigenous rights, Indigenous and community knowledge (if provided), public comments, and mitigation measures. The IAA does not prescribe how an authority must conduct these environmental effects determinations. The responsibility for conducting the effects determination rests with the relevant authorities. The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada has issued public guidance to authorities to support them in meeting their obligations under the IAA, shares best practices, and hosts the Registry site, but does not review the determinations nor the analysis conducted by authorities.Parks Canada is the federal government’s lead on the protection and presentation of nationally significant examples of Canada's natural and cultural heritage, and the lead for Canada’s participation in the World Heritage Convention. Parks Canada’s interest in The Ottawa Hospital project relates to its impact on the Central Experimental Farm National Historic Site and on the neighboring Rideau Canada National Historic Site and World Heritage Site.The City of Ottawa and the National Capital Commission are responsible for review and approval processes related to the development of the new Civic Campus of The Ottawa Hospital.Parks Canada is providing comments to both the City of Ottawa and the National Capital Commission in the context of their approval processes on the development of the Civic Campus of the Ottawa Hospital and its potential impacts on the heritage values of the national historic sites and world heritage site.
Government landsLocal development plansNational Capital CommissionThe Ottawa Hospital
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 5, 2022441-00230441-00230 (Foreign affairs)MichaelKramRegina—WascanaConservativeSKMarch 22, 2022May 5, 2022March 2, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas: The recent military action by Russia against Ukraine represents a clear violation of both international law and any reasonably acceptable relationship between neighboring countries; andCanada must clearly and unequivocally condemn this illegal invasion.Therefore, we, the undersigned residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to recall Canada's ambassador to Russia and to sever all diplomatic ties with Russia.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its likeminded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence, including through the authorization of more than $160 million in military aid, and an additional $500 million announced on April 7 as part of the federal budget announcement. Military aid includes rocket launchers, grenades, anti-tank weapons, small arms, and ammunition. Canada has also recently contributed M777 howitzers, on which Canadian troops will be training Ukrainian forces, a large number of additional Carl Gustaf anti-armour ammunition, and finalized contracts for eight commercial patterned armoured vehicles that will be sent to Ukraine as soon as possible. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada has been supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, PSOPs has developed in excess of $9 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against nearly 1000 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation. Most recently, Canada sanctioned another 33 military entities directly or indirectly supporting the Russian government. These decisions will help undermine and erode the capabilities of the Russian and Belarusian military.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime, until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.Budget 2022 is now proposing measures to not only seize but to allow for the forfeiture and disposal of the assets of sanctioned individuals and entities. These measures will further allow Canada to redistribute the proceeds of these forfeitures for post-war reconstruction, restoration of international peace and security, and compensation to victims These changes will make Canada’s sanctions regime a leader in the G7.On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has announced $245 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. To date, $145 million has been allocated to United Nations organizations, the Red Cross Movement and non-governmental organizations. This also includes a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that addresses emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they can meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $300 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Budget 2022 announced that Canada will offer up to $1 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada led in the referral of the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account.Ukraine filed an application with the International Court of Justice to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. The Court granted provisional measures, including ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine. Canada welcomed the Court’s order and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate and gather evidence.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with likeminded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of April 24, more than 20, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Diplomacy and diplomatsEmbassy of Canada to the Russian FederationRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 25, 2022441-00155441-00155 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 9, 2022March 25, 2022February 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • The Government of Kazakhstan systematically violates its human rights obligations by mislabeling peaceful opposition movements as terrorist organizations;
  • The Government of Kazakhstan has captured and sentenced several peaceful human rights activists and their law-abiding associates, as demonstrated in the case of Bekizhan Mendygaziyev, the brother of the human rights activist Barlyk Mendygaziyev;
  • The Government of Kazakhstan is hindering free communication via the censorship of the internet, specifically with the increase of censorship on social media platforms and messaging apps such as Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube;
  • The policies of the Government of Kazakhstan enables and advances the Uyghur genocide by denying political asylum to ethnic Kazakhs fleeing Xinjiang and persecutes those seeking information about missing relatives and loved ones in Xinjiang, serving to hide these atrocities from the international community and concerned human rights organizations; and
  • The Government of Kazakhstan misuses civil and criminal proceedings for political purposes and abuses international criminal cooperation mechanisms, including Interpol Red Notices and mutual legal assistance, to prosecute and seize documents of political refugees as in the cases of lawyer and human rights defender Botagoz Jardemalie and the leader of a peaceful opposition movement Mukhtar Ablyazov, who was sentenced in absentia to life imprisonment by a Kazakh court in violation of the right to defense.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Publicly raise the deterioration of human rights in Kazakhstan with the Government of Kazakhstan and on a global platform; 2. Call on the Government of Kazakhstan to release political prisoners and human rights activists including Bekizhan Mendygaziyev; 3. Demand the Government of Kazakhstan to stop political persecution and suppression of pro-democracy opposition voices; and 4. Join the European Parliament in their application of targeted sanctions against high-ranking officials responsible for the perpetrating of gross human rights violations, repression, arbitrary arrests, persecution, torture, and beating of peaceful protestors and pro-democracy activists.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental to democratic and inclusive societies. The Government of Canada regularly calls on States to respect their international human rights law and international refugee law obligations.Canada closely monitors political, social, and economic developments in Kazakhstan. Global Affairs Canada maintains an ongoing dialogue with Kazakh authorities and regularly emphasizes the importance of upholding democratic values and respecting human rights. Canada does not hesitate to raise concerns with regards the respect for human rights in Kazakhstan through bilateral and multilateral channels, including on issues such as the right to freedom of expression, the right to peaceful assembly, and the right to a fair trial. In various fora, Canada has encouraged Kazakhstan to ensure that these fundamental freedoms are protected, in line with Kazakhstan’s constitution and its obligations under international law.Canada followed closely developments related to the nationwide unrest in Kazakhstan in January 2022, publicly expressing concern and calling for calm. Since then, Canada has continued to call for the prompt publication of a thorough investigation into recent events by the Government of Kazakhstan. The Government of Canada has welcomed the Government of Kazakhstan’s invitation to civil society organizations and the United Nations special rapporteurs to participate in this investigation.On January 20, 2022, Canada’s Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe delivered an intervention along with other Participating States, in response to the address by the Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan to the Permanent Council meeting. The intervention called for Kazakhstan to meet its domestic and international human rights obligations towards those detained, in particular with respect to due process and conditions of detention. In February 2022, Global Affairs Canada’s Assistant Deputy Minister for Europe, the Arctic, the Middle East and the Maghreb reiterated Canada’s concerns over reported human rights violations and noted the importance of a full, transparent and independent investigation into the events of January during her meeting with the Deputy Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan.Global Affairs Canada is aware of and deeply concerned by reports of human rights violations, including of arbitrary detentions related to the January 2022 civil unrest and of unlawful treatment of displaced Uyghurs. Kazakhstan is party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which prohibits arbitrary arrest or detention. It has also ratified the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, which requires Kazakhstan to perform a non-discriminatory, individual assessment of each person’s status as a potential refugee, including of the risk they face in their home country, which by definition is impossible in an expedited or mass expulsion situation.Sanctions are an important element of Canada's foreign policy tools. Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate, along with other tools, which include dialogue, capacity building, advocacy, multilateral engagement, and other diplomatic actions.The Government of Canada has noted and welcomed the Government of Kazakhstan’s commitment to institutional reforms. It encourages the Government of Kazakhstan to ensure that the promised citizen-focused reforms have a positive impact on the working environment of human rights defenders and journalists, on individuals’ ability to exercise their right of peaceful assembly, and on the ability of civil society to function effectively. Canada remains ready to assist Kazakh authorities and stakeholders with their ongoing efforts and progress towards greater political and economic inclusion.Canada will continue to remain engaged and closely follow developments in Kazakhstan.
Civil and human rightsKazakhstanOppression
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00523441-00523 (Justice)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Bill C-5 eliminates a number of mandatory minimum jail sentences for criminals who commit: robbery with a firearm, weapons trafficking, discharging firearm, possessing of a loaded firearm, and extortion with a firearm;
  • It also eliminates mandatory minimums in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act that target drug dealers; and
  • The bill allows for greater use of conditional sentence orders, such as house arrest (instead of jail time), for a number of offences, including prison breach, criminal harassment, sexual assault, kidnapping, and trafficking in persons.
We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately withdraw or repeal Bill C-5, and stop favouring the criminals at the expense of law-abiding Canadians.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-5, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, seeks to contribute to a fairer and more effective criminal justice system without compromising public safety.Systemic discrimination and racism are a reality for too many in Canada’s criminal justice system. WithBill C- 5, our Government is moving away from rigid one-size-fits-all policies that have not made our communities safer, but have instead filled up our prisons with too many lower-risk and first-time offenders - disproportionately Indigenous peoples and members of Black and racialized communities.These changes are one step closer to rooting out systemic racism and reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous people, Black peoples, and members of marginalized communities in our criminal justice system.Our Government looks forward to working with the Senate in its consideration of Bill C-5 and the Bill receiving Royal Assent.
C-5, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances ActSentencing
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 6, 2022441-00398441-00398 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCApril 25, 2022June 6, 2022March 30, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada is also developing the Regional Energy and Resource Tables Initiative—to collaborate and advance Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.     
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00637441-00637 (Social affairs and equality)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBJune 22, 2022August 17, 2022April 1, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00593441-00593 (Environment)AnitaVandenbeldOttawa West—NepeanLiberalONJune 15, 2022September 20, 2022April 6, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition. 
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.   
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00537441-00537 (Foreign affairs)DanMuysFlamborough—GlanbrookConservativeONJune 6, 2022August 17, 2022April 7, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • Russian President Putin has threatened all other nations, including Canada, that are assisting the people of Ukraine in their valiant defence of their country;
  • The Russian Federation poses a great and immediate risk to Ukraine and her allies;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine, such as being the first country to recognize their independence in 1991; and
  • Since 1992, Ukraine participated in various UN and NATO peacekeeping operations.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Provide direct military assistance and further lethal weapons and supplies to the defence of Ukraine; and 2. Immediately urge NATO allies and Ukraine-friendly countries to close the airspace over Ukraine, deploy peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, and support the Ukrainian people.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of June 15, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Provision of Military FundingIn September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since February 2022, National Defence has committed $274 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, drone cameras, funding for high-resolution satellite imagery, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Canada has committed $147.3 million of the $500 million announced in assistance to Ukraine in Budget 2022. From this funding, Canada is donating over 20,000 rounds of 155mm NATO-standard ammunition, which are compatible with the heavy artillery systems that Canada has already delivered. Canada will also provide 10 replacement barrels to enable to sustainment of these systems and to maintain their distance range and accuracy. We are working around the clock to commit military aid with the remainder of these funds.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help. Most recently, the Minister had another productive meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart during the third meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, on the margins of NATO’s Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two tactical aircrafts to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered nearly 2 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence. Canada has committed over $262 million in military aid to Ukraine, including M-777 artillery guns, which Canadian troops are training Ukrainian forces on, 155 mm ammunition, small arms, Carl Gustav anti-tank weapons, anti-tank rocket launchers, drone cameras, Roshel smart armoured vehicles, de-mining equipment and satellite imagery. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada is supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion specifically, PSOPs has approved more than $10 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against over 1070 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation.Most recently, Canada sanctioned additional individuals and entities in the defence and financial sectors that were directly or indirectly supporting the Russian regime.Canada prohibited the export to Russia of certain luxury goods and goods that could be used in the manufacturing of weapons and the provision of 28 services to the Russian oil, gas and chemical industries. These include technical, management, accounting, and advertising services vital for the operation of these industries, which account for about 50% of Russia’s federal budget revenues. We also prohibited the import of certain luxury goods from Russia.Canada will complement these measures by banning sanctioned Russians from entering Canada. Legislative changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) have been introduced to ensure foreign nationals subject to sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) are inadmissible to Canada.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.As per Canada’s commitments made as a member of the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO) multilateral taskforce, Canada has proposed legislative amendments that would allow for the seizure and forfeiture of assets belonging to sanctioned individuals and entities. The proceeds generated from the sale of these assets may be used for compensation to victims, the reconstruction of affected states, and the restoration of international peace and security. Canada will be a leader in this sanctions space once these new measures come into force. On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has provided $245 million in humanitarian assistance to UN, Red Cross, and NGO partners to respond to the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. This includes support for the World Food Programme in Ukraine to address food security needs, as well as a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada. Canada also sent 20 cargo flights with more than 377,000 essential relief items and financed the deployment of humanitarian exports to support the UN and Res Cross responses in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that is addressing emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they are better able to meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. In addition, Canada recently allocated $7 million in development assistance to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support those impacted by Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), as well as $2 million for the completion of a dairy plant in western Ukraine, to support food security efforts. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in bilateral loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $500 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Canada has offered up to $1.25 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account. To support the ICC investigations, Canada deployed an additional seven RCMP officers to the ICC and announced $1 million in funding to augment the court’s ability to investigate and prosecute conflict-related sexual violence and crimes against children. Canada is also supporting the deployment of two experts from the UN Women roster to support the UN Human Rights Council Commission of Inquiry (COI) on issues of sexual violence and gender.Canada coordinated a joint statement, issued on May 20 with 43 signatories, expressing support for Ukraine’s application against Russia at the International Court of Justice. Ukraine’s application seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. Canada also welcomed the Court’s provisional measures order ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine, and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission and a subsequent follow-up mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with like-minded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of June 7, almost 40, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. As of June 2, three charter flights from Poland have arrived in Winnipeg, Montreal, and Halifax.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the widespread destruction of cities and civilian infrastructure due to missile and artillery strikes, as well as bombing by Russian airplanes. Only the UN Security Council (UNSC) can make a legally binding decision that all member States must refrain from flight to, from or through the airspace of a specific State or region, pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII. In the current situation, Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, would veto any such resolution.Enforcing a no-fly zone is not a passive act; it would require sending aircraft and ground-based air defence systems from NATO Member States to target and possibly shoot down Russian aircraft violating the airspace in question, in order to prevent that aircraft from carrying out offensive operations on the terrain below.This would be a use of force, making the country that conducted the strike a party to the conflict, and it would also mean that NATO Member States would become targets themselves.NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has stated that imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine would “significantly escalate the war”, risking a “full-fledged war in Europe” between NATO and Russia and lead to “much more human suffering, civilian casualties, destruction”. This is why NATO Allies are providing significant support to Ukraine through sanctions, military aid and in multilateral forums, while not directly engaging in the conflict.We will continue to support Ukraine, including by providing them with the military aid they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Air defenceCanadian ForcesMilitary weaponsRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01521441-01521 (Social affairs and equality)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBJune 8, 2023August 16, 2023April 22, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, residents of the province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • Canada's seniors should be a priority for all of us;
  • There are programs that support Canada's seniors like OAS and the GIS along with other public and private financial support programs that ensure seniors have financial means;
  • Governments and senior support groups often encourage and provide support programs like Canada's New Horizons Program which provides grants or Age and Opportunity groups that provide services;
  • Governments of all levels need to work together on issues like long term care and mental health for our seniors; and
  • It is important that leaders in our communities recognize the value of supporting our seniors who continue to contribute to who we are as a society no matter what their personal disposition might be.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon Canada's Members of Parliament to encourage, promote and advocate for the needs of our seniors.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam Van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadians, including seniors, through the development of policies, programs, and initiatives that promote the health, wellbeing, and quality of life of older adults, and through addressing issues in long-term care.Canadians ultimately want to age at home or in their community, close to family and loved ones. That is why the Federal Government is providing $6 billion over ten years, starting in 2017, for provinces and territories to improve access to home and community care services, including palliative care. As a result of the first five years of this investment, provinces and territories have implemented new initiatives to improve access, better coordinate and integrate care, and support caregivers to help more Canadians receive the care and services they need so that they may remain at home longer. Details of the bilateral agreements, including how the funding is being spent, can be found here: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/corporate/transparency/health-agreements/shared-health-priorities.html.The Government of Canada also supports and promotes various international initiatives related to aging and health, including the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) Age-Friendly Communities Model. An age-friendly community is one that is designed to help seniors live safely, enjoy good health and stay involved. In an age-friendly community, structures and services are adapted to the needs of older people. These efforts continue to grow around the world and in Canada, where we now have over 1,400 communities across the country working to become more age-friendly. The Prime Minister has tasked the Minister of Health, in the context of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing, with working to promote seniors’ physical and mental health to enable them to live longer at home. This includes supporting the Minister of Seniors in their work to establish an expert panel to provide recommendations for establishing an Aging at Home Benefit.The Minister of Seniors and the Minister of Health have asked the National Seniors Council to serve as an expert panel to examine measures, including a potential aging at home benefit, to further support Canadians who wish to age within the comfort of their own homes. Just recently, the National Seniors Council held an online consultation inviting Canadians and stakeholders to share their lived experiences and views on ways to support Canadians in aging at home. Over 12,000 respondents provided invaluable input that will inform the Government’s work on this issue. A report containing recommendations for federal consideration on potential ways to enhance current measures or introduce new ones, including a potential new benefit, is scheduled to be submitted, by the National Seniors Council, to Ministers in September 2023.The COVID-19 pandemic has also tragically exposed long-standing issues affecting long-term care facilities across the country. While the provision of long-term care falls under the jurisdiction of the provinces and territories, the Federal Government is working collaboratively with provinces and territories to improve the quality and availability of long-term care and to support training and better wages for personal support workers. The Minister of Health’s most recent mandate letter reiterates the Government’s commitment to ensuring seniors get the care they deserve. This commitment builds on past efforts to support long-term care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.In January 2023, the Government of Canada welcomed the release of complementary, independent long-term care standards from CSA Group and the Health Standards Organization (HSO). Together, the standards focus on the delivery of safe, reliable, and high-quality long-term care services, safe operating practices, and infection prevention and control measures in long-term care homes.The standards complement the Government of Canada’s collaborative work with provinces and territories to help support improvements in long-term care. Budget 2021 announced a $3 billion investment, starting in 2022-23, to support provinces and territories in their efforts to ensure standards for long-term care are applied and permanent changes are made. This funding will help support workforce stability, including through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions (e.g., staff to patient ratios, hours of work) and strengthened enforcement (e.g., enhanced inspection and enforcement capacity, quality, and safety improvements to meet standards), including through accreditation and regular inspections. The Federal Government will work collaboratively with provinces and territories to flow this funding as part of our collective efforts to make sure that seniors and others in care settings live in safe and dignified conditions. Action plans for this funding are in development by provinces and territories.Delivery of long-term care services is a provincial and territorial responsibility. Given the constitutional division of powers, the Federal Government cannot impose national standards on provinces and territories, or directly on long-term care facilities, but the funding agreements allow all to work together to prioritize the uptake and adherence to the standards.The Government of Canada is also looking at developing a Safe Long-Term Care Act to help ensure seniors get the care they deserve, while respecting provincial and territorial jurisdiction. The Government of Canada has initiated consultations and engagement with stakeholders and Canadians on a principles-based Safe Long-Term Care Act.In addition, Budget 2023 confirmed the Government’s commitment to an increase in health care funding of close to $200 billion over ten years, including $46.2 billion in new funding for provinces and territories. The plan emphasizes the key federal health priorities:
  • Access to family health services;
  • Building a resilient health workforce and addressing backlogs;
  • Access to mental health and substance use services;
  • Modernizing the health system through digital health and health data; and,
  • Helping Canadians age with dignity
This new funding includes a federal investment of $1.7 billion over five years to support hourly wage increases for personal support workers and related professions, as federal, provincial, and territorial governments work together on how best to support recruitment and retention.The Federal Government has also responded to address immediate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in long-term care facilities in a number of other ways:
  • In the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Federal Government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care Fund. This fund transferred $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care;
  • The Safe Restart Agreement provided provincial and territorial governments with over $19 billion to help them restart the economy, while making Canada more resilient to future surges in cases of COVID-19. This included $740 million in funding to support our most vulnerable populations through infection prevention and control measures to protect those in LTC and those receiving home care and palliative care;
  • Funding totalling $10.7 million to Healthcare Excellence Canada, enabling more than 1 500 long-term care facilities and retirement homes across Canada to implement best practices for preventing and addressing COVID-19 infection;
  • Workforce supports from the Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian Red Cross in long-term care facilities;
  • Public Health Agency of Canada Guidance on infection prevention and control and patient care in long-term care / home care during the pandemic;
  • Enhanced supply and coordination of personal protective equipment;
  • Procurement and coordination support for rapid testing and vaccines; and,
  • Programs coordinated by Employment and Social Development Canada for training and work placements for personal support worker interns.
Federal investments of $24 million from 2019 to 2021 and $29.8 million from 2021 to 2027 (through Budget 2021) will advance the Government’s Action Plan on Palliative Care and lay a better foundation for coordinated action on supportive care needs. This funding complements federal investments of $6 billion over ten years to provinces and territories for home and community care, including palliative care, under the Common Statement of Principles on Shared Health Priorities.The Action Plan on Palliative Care lays out Health Canada’s multi-year plan to tackle issues identified in the Framework on Palliative Care in Canada. Actions include: raising awareness of the importance of palliative care; providing public education on grief; improving palliative care skills and supports for health care providers, families, caregivers, and communities; enhancing data collection and research; and, improving access to culturally sensitive palliative care.Seniors deserve to be safe, respected, and live in dignity. The Federal Government continues to work in collaboration with provinces and territories to ensure seniors get the care they deserve, foster aging at home, and increase the resilience of long-term care facilities in order to prevent and mitigate challenges, including COVID-19.Our Government also has an important role to play in supporting evidence-based best practices to promote healthy aging. In 2018, the Government of Canada invested $75 million for the Healthy Seniors Pilot Project in New Brunswick. This project is examining how governments can better support seniors in their homes, communities, and care facilities. The projects supported by this initiative are addressing a wide range of issues related to the health of older people.Dementia is also having a significant and growing impact in Canada. In 2019-2020, nearly 474 000 Canadians aged 65 and older were living with diagnosed dementia. This number is expected to rise as Canada’s aging population increases. The Government of Canada is addressing these impacts, such as through its 2019 release of the first national dementia strategy, A Dementia Strategy for Canada: Together We Aspire. The Government of Canada is supporting the strategy’s implementation through investments in research, awareness raising, guidance, surveillance, and community-based projects. Furthermore, Budget 2022 provided $30 million over three years, starting in 2022-23, to the Public Health Agency of Canada, for the Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation to help accelerate innovations in brain health and aging. Budget 2022 also provided $20 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to increase efforts to learn more about dementia and brain health, to improve treatment and outcomes for persons living with dementia, and to evaluate and address mental health consequences for caregivers and different models of care.The commitment to support the mental health of Canadians, including seniors, is reflected in a number of ongoing investments. Through Budget 2017, the Government is investing $5 billion over ten years (2017-2027) with provinces and territories to support increased access to mental health and substance use services.The Government is also continuing to work with partners and stakeholders to develop National Standards for Mental Health and Substance Use Health Services. Once developed and voluntarily implemented, standards will help to support an evidence-based framework for service delivery that the public, service providers, and policy makers can rely on.The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected older adults who continue to experience a range of negative impacts as a result of the pandemic and has necessitated an increased need for mental health supports. To support older Canadians, Budget 2021 provided $100 million over three years, starting in 2021-22, to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including older adults.As Canada heads into post-pandemic recovery, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions is committed to ensuring that all Canadians have access to mental health and substance use health supports when they need them. This is reflected in the Minister’s mandate letter, which calls for mental health care to be treated as a full and equal part of our universal health care system.To this end, and building on previous Budget 2017 investments, Budget 2023 highlighted the government's plan to provide close to $200 billion over ten years in health transfers, including $25 billion over ten years through a new set of bilateral agreements to address individual provincial and territorial health system needs, such as expanding access to family health services, supporting health workers and reducing backlogs, increasing mental health and substance use support, and modernizing health systems.The Government of Canada will continue to engage with key partners and stakeholders to build evidence, raise awareness, and develop resources on key seniors’ health issues. All of these commitments and investments in mental health, healthy aging, dementia, home care and long-term care ensure a better future for Canadians.
Response by the Minister of Labour and SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Darren FisherThe Government of Canada values the many contributions that seniors have made and continue to make to our country, our communities, our workplaces and our families. The government is delivering on a number of commitments to provide support to Canadian seniors, to ensure their financial security, social inclusion, well-being and quality of life.While the percentage of seniors living in poverty decreased from 7% in 2015 to 5.6% in 2021, we know that some seniors still struggle to make ends meet. This is why our government has taken action to reduce poverty for all Canadians, including seniors. In 2018, the Government introduced Opportunity for All – Canada’s First Poverty Reduction Strategy. The Strategy offers a bold vision for Canada without poverty. It also sets poverty reduction targets for all Canadians, including seniors, based on Canada’s Official Poverty Line: a 20% reduction in poverty by 2020 and a 50% reduction in poverty by 2030, relative to 2015 levels. The Government’s poverty reduction efforts are already showing positive effects. According to the 2021 Canadian Income Survey, the poverty rate was 7.4% in 2021, down from 14.5% in 2015. This represents a 49% decrease in poverty compared to 2015, the baseline year for Canada’s legislated poverty reduction targets. Between 2015 and 2021, over 2.3 million Canadians were lifted out of poverty.The Government supports seniors through a strong and stable retirement income system consisting of three pillars that Canadians can count on to be there today and into the future.  The first pillar is the residence-based, monthly Old Age Security (OAS) pension and the income-tested Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income seniors. Benefits under the OAS program include the OAS pension, which is paid to all persons aged 65 or over who meet the residence requirements, the GIS for low-income seniors, and the Allowances for low-income Canadians aged 60 to 64 who are the spouses or common-law partners of GIS recipients, or who are widows or widowers.The second pillar is the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), a social insurance program that is funded by the contributions of employees, employers and self-employed persons, and by the revenue earned on CPP investments. It covers virtually all employed and self-employed persons in Canada, excluding Quebec, which operates its own comprehensive plan, the Québec Pension Plan. The intent of the CPP is to provide contributors and their families with minimum basic income replacement upon the retirement, disability or death of a wage earner. As an income replacement program, the amounts of CPP benefits are generally based on each earner’s contributions to the CPP over their lifetime. While primarily a retirement plan, the CPP also provides supplementary disability and survivor benefits, which reflect the social insurance nature of the Plan and are not a direct return on contributions.The OAS and CPP work together to provide a stable base upon which individuals can add income from private third pillar measures, such as employer-sponsored pension plans, registered retirement savings plans, tax-free savings accounts and other personal savings and investments, to address their particular financial circumstances.To ensure that they retain their value over time, OAS benefits are reviewed four times per year (in January, April, July and October) and CPP benefits are reviewed annually (in January) in accordance with changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI measures the price of a typical “basket” of goods and services, such as food, shelter, gas and clothing, commonly purchased by Canadian households. The quarterly indexation provides benefit increases to recipients when prices go up. In addition, the Old Age Security Act and the Canada Pension Plan each contain a guarantee ensuring that benefits can never go down, even in the event of a decline in the CPI.The Government of Canada remains committed to improving the income security of seniors and continues to seek ways to strengthen the OAS program, as demonstrated by a broad range of measures taken since 2015:
  • Budget 2016 restored the age of eligibility for the OAS pension and the GIS from 67 back to 65, putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of future Canadian seniors.
  • In July 2016, the GIS was increased by up to $947 per year for the lowest-income single seniors, benefiting close to 900,000 vulnerable seniors across Canada. This measure, along with other government initiatives and changes to the economy, lifted an estimated 45,000 seniors out of poverty.
  • In December 2017, the Government launched automatic enrolment to the GIS. Seniors who are automatically enrolled for the OAS pension are now automatically enrolled for the GIS without ever having to complete an application.
  • In Budget 2019, the Government enhanced the GIS earnings exemption so that low-income seniors who work are able to keep more of what they earn. As of July 2020, the enhanced exemption applies to both employment and self-employment income and provides a full exemption on up to $5,000 of annual earnings, as well as a 50% exemption on the next $10,000 of earnings. This means that low-income seniors who work can keep more of their benefits.
The Government has also introduced several measures to protect seniors’ financial security during the COVID-19 pandemic. These included, in 2020, a one-time tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for the OAS pension, with an additional tax-free payment of $200 for seniors eligible for the GIS. This measure provided a total of $500 to low-income seniors who received both the OAS pension and the GIS. Allowance recipients also received $500.In Budget 2021, the Government committed to moving forward with investments that give Canadian seniors a better quality of life, including stronger financial security. In July 2022, the Government increased the OAS pension by 10% for seniors aged 75 or over. This increase was designed to address the increased vulnerability that seniors face as the age. As seniors get older, they tend to have lower income, and often face higher health-related expenses because of the onset of illness or disability. This is especially true for those 75 and older. This vulnerability is further compounded by a reduced ability to supplement their income with paid work, the risk of outliving personal savings, and the risk of widowhood. That is why the Government took action to make life more affordable for Canadians as they age.Budget 2021 also committed $90 million to support seniors in their homes through the Age Well at Home initiative. The timeframe for this initiative was recently extended to the end of fiscal year 2025-26.The Age Well at Home initiative will provide funding to seniors-serving organizations for local, regional and national projects which will allow for the discovery of new approaches and learnings. Projects funded under the In-Home Support Pilot Projects stream will test the extent to which volunteers can be mobilized to provide local practical supports such as meals, housekeeping, and yard work to help low-income and otherwise vulnerable seniors age at home. Projects funded under the Scaling Up for Seniors stream will expand services that have already demonstrated positive results in helping seniors age at home. Organizations that serve seniors had the opportunity to apply to two competitive funding processes, one for each stream, in June 2022.The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) supports the Government of Canada’s overarching social goals to enhance the quality of life, and promote the full participation of individuals, including seniors, in all aspects of Canadian society.The Program helps to ensure that seniors can benefit from and contribute to the quality of life in their communities. The NHSP promotes volunteerism among seniors and other generations; engages seniors in the community through mentoring of others; expands awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse; supports social participation and inclusion of seniors; and provides capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors.The NHSP reinforces that seniors are valuable assets to communities. By empowering seniors and encouraging them to share their knowledge, skills and experience with others in the community, theNHSP enhances seniors’ social well-being and community vitality. Seniors today contribute to their community, organizations and broader society by volunteering, participating in, and leading community activities. Since 2004, the NHSP has funded more than 36,500 projects with a total investment of more than $780 million.The 2022-2023 NHSP community-based call for proposals funded more than 3000 community projects with an investment of over $61M.To help seniors and all Canadians get the dental care they need, Budget 2023 committed to provide $13.0 billion over five years, starting in 2023-24, and $4.4 billion ongoing to Health Canada to implement the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). The plan will provide dental coverage for uninsured Canadians with annual family income of less than $90,000, with no co-pays for those with family incomes under $70,000. The plan will begin rolling out by the end of 2023 and will be administered by Health Canada, with support from a third-party benefits administrator. These investments build on the launch of the Canada Dental Benefits for children last year and will help seniors see a dentist when they need to and make their life more affordable.Addressing the issues faced by seniors is not only about the action of governments. Meaningful contributions are needed from a broad coalition of stakeholders. The Government receives valuable advice from a number of partners and stakeholders to inform its work. For example, the National Seniors Council, established in 2007, provides advice to the federal government, through the Minister of Seniors and Minister of Health, on matters related to the well-being, quality of life and health of seniors. The Minister of Seniors and the Minister of Health have asked the National Seniors Council to serve as an expert panel to examine measures, including a potential aging at home benefit, to further support Canadians who wish to age within the comfort of their own homes. Just recently, the National Seniors Council held an online consultation inviting Canadians and stakeholders to share their lived experiences and views on ways to support Canadians in aging at home. Over 12,000 respondents provided invaluable input that will inform the government’s work on this issue. A report containing recommendations for federal consideration on potential ways to enhance current measures or introduce new ones, including a potential new benefit, is scheduled to be submitted by the National Seniors Council to Ministers in September 2023.Additionally, through the FPT Seniors Forum, federal, provincial and territorial ministers and officials discuss issues of importance to seniors, share information on seniors’ wellbeing, and undertake initiatives to advance issues of common concern. In 2021, FPT Ministers responsible for seniors approved the following priorities for the FPT Seniors Forum 2022-2025 work cycle: the role of technology to enhance aging in place; senior abuse: during the pandemic and beyond; and supportive housing for a diverse senior’s population. Ministers also approved the continuation of carry-over work on ageism. Most recently, FPT Ministers responsible for seniors met on April 25-26, 2023, in Toronto, Ontario. In addition to approving reports flowing from consultations on ageism and an analysis of gaps and challenges in preventing and responding to the mistreatment of older adults during the pandemic, they discussed measures to address affordability and cost-of-living issues for seniors and received a presentation from Ontario showcasing housing innovations to support aging.The Government looks forward to continuing to work with the National Seniors Council, provinces, territories and other key stakeholders to support Canada’s seniors of today and tomorrow.  
Senior citizensSocial benefits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 22, 2022441-00415441-00415 (Environment)DanielBlaikieElmwood—TransconaNDPMBMay 9, 2022June 22, 2022April 22, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada is also developing the Regional Energy and Resource Tables Initiative—to collaborate and advance Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition. 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2023441-01308441-01308 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 19, 2023June 2, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 17, 2022441-00460441-00460 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 13, 2022June 17, 2022May 10, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Irresponsible practices by industry and multi-national corporations have led to the destruction and denigration of much of Canada's waterways and watersheds;
  • Current laws do not sufficiently protect Canada's waterways and watersheds from such irresponsible practices; and
  • Protecting waterways and watersheds also protects Canada's forests, fisheries, land, and air.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Update Canada's water laws to ensure that no industry or corporation takes precedence over the health of Canada's waterways and watersheds, and by extension the health of the country's people, species, and land; and
  • Ensure Canada's water laws are updated under the guidance of professionals and specialists in the field of water conservation.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Government of Canada is committed to safeguarding our country’s freshwater resources for generations to come. No resource is more important to Canadians than fresh, clean water--our lives and livelihoods depend on it.Freshwater management in Canada is a shared responsibility between federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments. The Government of Canada works cooperatively with other orders of government to leverage partnerships and incredible expertise that exists within Canada to safeguard freshwater resources. Below are some examples of collaborations:
  • Federal-provincial-territorial collaboration on water: The Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) is the intergovernmental forum in Canada for discussion and joint action on environmental issues of national concern. It is composed of environment ministers from the federal, provincial and territorial governments. CCME has established a Water Management Committee that works on delivering water activities that are of interest nationally. For example, the CCME develops Canadian Environmental Quality Guidelines to provide a scientific basis for making effective decisions regarding the protection of freshwater resources in Canada.
  • Protecting major watersheds: The Government of Canada has decades of experience undertaking watershed protection initiatives in collaboration with provincial governments, Indigenous communities and stakeholders. Canada is committed to working and collaborating with others to restore and protect our freshwater resources through arrangements such as the Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, the Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health, the Canada-Quebec Agreement on the St. Lawrence, and the Canada-Manitoba Memorandum of Understanding Respecting Lake Winnipeg and the Lake Winnipeg Basin. In 2017, the Government of Canada invested $70.5 million to protect the Great Lakes and Lake Winnipeg Basin. Of this investment, $44.84 million over five years was provided to the Great Lakes Protection Initiative in order to take action to address the most significant environmental challenges affecting Great Lakes water quality and ecosystem health. This funding supports efforts to address priorities of reducing phosphorus loading to Lake Erie, assessing and enhancing the resilience of Great Lakes coastal wetlands, evaluating and identifying at-risk nearshore waters, reducing releases of harmful chemicals, and increasing public engagement through citizen science. A total of $25.7 million of the Budget 2017 investment was also provided to the Lake Winnipeg basin program. The Government has invested in a wide range of projects that focus on actions to reduce excessive nutrients like phosphorus from entering the lake, as well as projects that enhance collaboration throughout the basin, and that support Indigenous engagement on freshwater issues.
  • Supporting domestic and international water boards: Domestic inter-jurisdictional water boards have been established to focus on specific water issues that have implications for more than one province or territory. These boards include the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board, Prairie Provinces Water Board, Mackenzie River Basin Board, and the Lake of the Woods Control Board. In addition, the Government of Canada supports 17 Canadian-United States water boards and committees through the International Joint Commission (IJC) by providing science and expert advice. The IJC prevents and resolves disputes between the United States and Canada regarding lake and river systems along the border (under the 1909 Boundary Water treaty).
  • Monitoring water quantity and quality. Environment and Climate Change Canada’s (ECCC) National Hydrological Service (NHS) is the primary operator for the hydrometric monitoring networks which is collaboratively managed and cost-shared with provinces and territories (approximately 2800 active monitoring stations). The NHS is also responsible for water management of international and domestic transboundary water in partnership with the IJC and the provinces and territories. In 2019, the Government of Canada invested $89.7 million to modernize the NHS to support earlier and more accurate information about freshwater resources. This investment will help to ensure the sustainability of the Government’s water-monitoring networks, which in turn will help prepare Canadians for water-related disasters like flooding and droughts. In addition, ECCC’s Water Quality Monitoring and Surveillance Program activities are accomplished in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments. The objectives of the Program are to disseminate timely information on water quality to the public, government agencies, industry and the scientific community. ECCC also oversees the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators Program (CESI). The CESI Program provides freshwater data from federal, provincial and territorial governments to track Canada’s performance on key environmental sustainability issues including pressures on freshwater regional ecosystems, water quality and availability in Canadian rivers.
Canada’s federal legislative framework for freshwater management consists of several legislative instruments that provide the federal government with powers to address freshwater issues across the country, both directly and indirectly. As well, the provinces and territories have significant jurisdiction over water resources within their boundaries and play a core role regarding water management.Federal legislation for freshwater management addresses the key areas of federal jurisdiction. The management of cross-boundary water flows ensures water quantity issues are addressed, while pollution prevention provisions protect water quality in fish-bearing and migratory bird habitats. As well, in this area of shared jurisdiction, the federal legislative framework allows for cooperative collaboration on fresh water with provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous people and international partners.Pollution prevention is a fundamental element of the federal freshwater legislative framework. The Fisheries Act includes provisions prohibiting pollution that could be harmful to fish and other aquatic life. Regulations under the Fisheries Act imposes conditions, including effluent limits, on the release of deleterious substances and effluent into water and can include environmental effects monitoring requirements for facilities. Similarly, The Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, protects against pollution on land or in water that could be harmful to migratory birds. The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, is an important federal law aimed at preventing pollution and protecting the environment and human health. It authorizes action on a wide range of environmental and health risks that directly impact water resources including, for example, water pollution, toxic substances, and waste.In the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change`s mandate letter from the Prime Minister, water features prominently. The Minister has been asked, with the support of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, to establish a Canada Water Agency (CWA) and implement a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to protect and restore large lakes and river systems starting with the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System, Lake Simcoe, the Lake Winnipeg Basin, the Fraser River Basin and the Mackenzie River Basin. Following the establishment of the Agency, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change has also been asked to advance the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality, including climate change and Indigenous rights.The federal government is currently developing options for the proposed Canada Water Agency. The identification of freshwater priorities and creation of the Agency has been the subject of engagement with Indigenous peoples, provincial and territorial governments, stakeholders, and the public. The Government of Canada released the Discussion Paper, Towards the Creation of a Canada Water Agency in December 2020 formally launching a public engagement process to seek feedback on the establishment of a new CWA. In January and February 2021, the federal government held a National Forum, six Regional Forums and expert workshops on freshwater science and data engaging over 2500 Canadians. Priorities highlighted in consultations included: climate adaptation, enhanced coordination/improved governance of federal freshwater activities, science, data, and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Dedicated engagement and relationship building with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis on freshwater priorities and development of the CWA has begun and will be ongoing.   
Environmental protectionInland watersWatersheds
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023441-01355441-01355 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 26, 2023June 9, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02134441-02134 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024May 18, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAUL CHIANG, M.P.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada.Immigration officers examine foreign charges and convictions to determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted of that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents, such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, applicants may be eligible for relief, on a case-by-case basis, using mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob Oliphant(1) Canada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive economic, institutional and people-to-people ties. Canada strongly believes that a stable and prosperous Hong Kong depends on respect for human rights. Canada has consistently underscored this essential fact, both in Canada’s public pronouncements and communication with the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong authorities. Canada has consistently expressed its deep concern that the National Security Law is eroding respect for human rights. The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers expressed concerns in April 2023 about the National Security Law’s impact on the Hong Kong judicial system. In that report, the Special Rapporteur explained that the National Security Law can interfere with the independence of the judiciary, the ability of lawyers to exercise their profession independently, and the due process that guarantees the right to a fair trial in Hong Kong. Canada will continue to monitor all trials related to charges under the National Security Law and anti-sedition law, closely monitor developments in Hong Kong’s judiciary system, and will undertake appropriate action in response to emerging developments.(4) While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility. For Canada, foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada. With regards to human rights, Canada has repeatedly expressed its concern over the continued erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy and rights through joint statements with the G7 and the Media Freedom Coalition. Since 2019, these statements have specified shared concerns on the imposition of the National Security Law, the selection process of the Chief Executive in Hong Kong, changes to Hong Kong’s electoral system which barred opposition candidates from participation, and the deteriorating media environment in the region. Furthermore, Canada and like-minded countries each publicly expressed concerns about the Hong Kong authorities’ issuance of international bounties for pro-democracy advocates living overseas and reiterated opposition to the extraterritorial application of the National Security Law.During China’s recent Universal Period Review (UPR) appearance on its human rights record before the UN Human Right Council (January 23, 2024), Canada publicly called on China to repeal the National Security Law and to discontinue all cases against individuals in Hong Kong charged with exercising their human rights and freedoms. Furthermore, Canada and like-minded countries publicly expressed concerns at the UPR about the issuance by Hong Kong authorities of international bounties for pro-democracy advocates living overseas, and reiterated opposition to the extraterritorial application of the National Security Law. Moving forward, Canada will continue to express concern over the continued erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy and rights through joint efforts with like-minded countries.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01540441-01540 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 13, 2023August 16, 2023May 18, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada.Immigration officers examine foreign charges and convictions to determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted for that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents, such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, applicants may be eligible for relief, on a case-by-case basis, using mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive commercial, institutional and people-to-people ties.(1) The maintenance of Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, as expressed through the One Country, Two Systems framework, is a high priority for the Government of Canada. Under this framework, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. Canada remains committed to supporting Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy within the One Country, Two Systems framework, and to working with international partners to advance the goal of a free, stable and prosperous Hong Kong where human rights and fundamental freedoms under the Basic Law are guaranteed. We will continue to monitor developments in Hong Kong closely, including those relating to the territory’s judicial system, and reserve the right to undertake appropriate action in response to future developments.(4) In advance of the imposition of the National Security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on May 22, 2020, expressing deep concern over proposals to introduce national security legislation in Hong Kong. Another statement was issued with Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States on May 28, 2020, reiterating concerns over the anticipated introduction of the National Security Law. On June 17, 2020, Canada joined its G7 partners to release a joint statement urging China to reconsider its decision.Following the imposition and implementation of the National Security Law, Canada has worked in concert with international partners to support the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Hong Kong residents and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the Basic Law and the One Country, Two Systems framework. Canada also announced new immigration initiatives for Hong Kong and has sought to complement and align these initiatives with measures taken by our likeminded partners.Subsequently, following the adoption by the National People’s Congress of a package of changes to the electoral system in Hong Kong in March 2021, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union, also released a joint statement expressing grave concerns at the Chinese authorities’ decision. The joint statement made it clear such a decision strongly indicates that the authorities in mainland China are determined to eliminate dissenting voices and opinions in Hong Kong, while also stifling political pluralism, contrary to the aim of moving towards universal suffrage as set out in the Basic Law.The wider chilling effects of the National Security Law and the growing restrictions on freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, which are being felt across civil society is deeply concerning. On December 20, 2021 Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as the Foreign Ministers of the G7, noting the outcome of the Legislative Council elections in Hong Kong, issued separate statements expressing grave concern over the erosion of democratic elements of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s electoral system. On February 17, 2022, Canada and 21 other members of the Media Freedom Coalition issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern at the Chinese authorities’ attacks on freedom of the press and their suppression of independent local media in Hong Kong.While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00630441-00630 (Environment)AlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordNDPBCJune 22, 2022September 20, 2022May 27, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce. Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01517441-01517 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 5, 2023August 16, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada.Immigration officers examine foreign charges and convictions to determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted for that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents, such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, applicants may be eligible for relief, on a case-by-case basis, using mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive commercial, institutional and people-to-people ties.(1) The maintenance of Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, as expressed through the One Country, Two Systems framework, is a high priority for the Government of Canada. Under this framework, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. Canada remains committed to supporting Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy within the One Country, Two Systems framework, and to working with international partners to advance the goal of a free, stable and prosperous Hong Kong where human rights and fundamental freedoms under the Basic Law are guaranteed. We will continue to monitor developments in Hong Kong closely, including those relating to the territory’s judicial system, and reserve the right to undertake appropriate action in response to future developments.(4) In advance of the imposition of the National Security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on May 22, 2020, expressing deep concern over proposals to introduce national security legislation in Hong Kong. Another statement was issued with Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States on May 28, 2020, reiterating concerns over the anticipated introduction of the National Security Law. On June 17, 2020, Canada joined its G7 partners to release a joint statement urging China to reconsider its decision.Following the imposition and implementation of the National Security Law, Canada has worked in concert with international partners to support the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Hong Kong residents and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the Basic Law and the One Country, Two Systems framework. Canada also announced new immigration initiatives for Hong Kong and has sought to complement and align these initiatives with measures taken by our likeminded partners.Subsequently, following the adoption by the National People’s Congress of a package of changes to the electoral system in Hong Kong in March 2021, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union, also released a joint statement expressing grave concerns at the Chinese authorities’ decision. The joint statement made it clear such a decision strongly indicates that the authorities in mainland China are determined to eliminate dissenting voices and opinions in Hong Kong, while also stifling political pluralism, contrary to the aim of moving towards universal suffrage as set out in the Basic Law.The wider chilling effects of the National Security Law and the growing restrictions on freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, which are being felt across civil society is deeply concerning. On December 20, 2021 Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as the Foreign Ministers of the G7, noting the outcome of the Legislative Council elections in Hong Kong, issued separate statements expressing grave concern over the erosion of democratic elements of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s electoral system. On February 17, 2022, Canada and 21 other members of the Media Freedom Coalition issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern at the Chinese authorities’ attacks on freedom of the press and their suppression of independent local media in Hong Kong.While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00090441-00090 (Justice)MartyMorantzCharleswood—St. James—Assiniboia—HeadingleyConservativeMBDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2022441-00784441-00784 (Justice)RobMorrisonKootenay—ColumbiaConservativeBCOctober 24, 2022December 7, 2022June 1, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00898441-00898 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 30, 2022January 30, 2023June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw. the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, it has been 17 years since the Chinese communist regime launched a persecution to “eradicate” Falun Gong—a spiritual practice centred on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance;Whereas, millions of Falun Gong practitioners have been arbitrarily detained, including family members of Canadians. The mass extrajudicial imprisonment, forced labour, torture, rape, and killing along with hate propaganda have been reported by all major human rights organizations;Whereas, an update report released in June 2016 indicates that prisoners of conscience, primarily Falun Gong practitioners, have been killed on demand to fuel a massive state-run transplant industry, supplying most of the organs for an estimated 60,000-100,000 transplants a year in Chinese hospitals since 2000. It could mean that at least hundreds of thousands Falun Gong practitioners have been murdered for their organs over the last 15 years;Whereas, the U.S. House of Representatives and European Parliament passed resolutions in June 2016 and December 2013 respectively condemning and calling for an immediate end to China's systematic and statesanctioned organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience, including Falun Gong. In February 2015, Canada's Parliamentary Subcommittee on International Human Rights unanimously passed a similar motion; andWhereas, since May 2015, over 200,000 Chinese citizens have filed criminal complaints against former Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin, who orchestrated the persecution of Falun Gong;Therefore, we, the undersigned, request that the Canadian Parliament and government:
  • Establish measures to stop the Chinese regime's mass murder of innocent people for their organs, including but not limited to introducing Canadian legislation to ban organ tourism and criminalize those involved;
  • Take every opportunity to call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong; and
  • Urge the Chinese authorities to bring former leader Jiang Zemin and his cohorts to justice.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits, public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, interventions and advocacy by its diplomatic missions, and outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on November 21, 2022.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities.On December 14, 2022, Bill S-223 regarding organ harvesting and trafficking, which parliamentarians have linked to Uyghurs and Falun Dafa practitioners in China, was adopted unanimously at third reading in the House of Commons by a vote of 324-0. Bill S-223 then received Royal Assent the following day. Bill S-223 will make it a criminal offence for a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident to go abroad to receive an organ taken from someone who did not give informed consent to the removal of the organ. Canada joins jurisdictions such as the UK, Italy, Israel, Belgium, Norway, Spain, and South Korea and Taiwan that have passed legislation to combat forced organ harvesting, organ transplant tourism, and organ trafficking.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The Government’s newly released Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) also directly outlines Canada’s approach to China. China’s rise as a global actor is reshaping the strategic outlook of every state in the region, including Canada. The third pillar of the IPS specifically invests in people, development, and the defense of human rights in the Indo Pacific region. Canada will never apologize for pursuing its national interests, which includes upholding global rules that govern human rights.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00082441-00082 (Justice)PhilipLawrenceNorthumberland—Peterborough SouthConservativeONDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00386441-00386 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 3, 2022441-00237441-00237 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONMarch 22, 2022May 3, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00384441-00384 (Justice)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 20, 2022441-00364441-00364 (Justice)RyanWilliamsBay of QuinteConservativeONApril 6, 2022May 20, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 10, 2022441-00466441-00466 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABMay 13, 2022June 10, 2022September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 16, 2022441-00491441-00491 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 17, 2022June 16, 2022September 24, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00930441-00930 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2022January 30, 2023September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 13, 2022441-00474441-00474 (Justice)ChrisLewisEssexConservativeONMay 13, 2022June 13, 2022September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00996441-00996 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01049441-01049 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01059441-01059 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023May 31, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01005441-01005 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023May 30, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 25, 2022441-00218441-00218 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 4, 2022April 25, 2022May 17, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 14, 2022441-00472441-00472 (Justice)StephanieKusieCalgary MidnaporeConservativeABMay 13, 2022June 14, 2022November 29, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00137441-00137 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 3, 2022March 21, 2022May 20, 2021Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, on February 23rd the Trudeau Government endorsed a Senate amendment to Bill C-7 that would allow Canadians with mental illness as their sole medical condition to access euthanasia. This expansion would automatically come into effect two years after Bill C-7 becomes law; Whereas, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) stated, "As a recovery-oriented organization, CMHA does not believe that mental illnesses are irremediable.";Whereas, suicidality is often a symptom of mental illness. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Canadians between the age of 10 and 19;Whereas, legal and medical experts are deeply concerned that permitting Canadians suffering from depression and other mental illnesses to access euthanasia would undermine suicide prevention efforts.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Reject the Senate amendment to present those struggling with mental illness with the option of an assisted death. 2. Protect Canadians struggling with mental illness by facilitating treatment and recovery, not death.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenOn March 17, 2021, new legislation on medical assistance in dying (former Bill C-7, now known as, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying)) received Royal Assent and came into effect immediately for all requests for medical assistance in dying (MAID) after that date. The new law removes the eligibility requirement for a reasonably foreseeable natural death, as well as easing certain safeguards such as the removal of the 10-day reflection period, only for those whose death is reasonably foreseeable.Over the past year, in particular during the study of the Act, a growing number of mental health and medical professionals have indicated that they believe MAID can be safely extended to those whose sole underlying condition is mental illness. While experts have said that only a very small minority of these individuals would likely be approved for MAID, they have also stressed the point that patients with mental illness can, and must, be evaluated on a case-by-case basis that takes into account the diversity of their circumstances. It was their view that Canadian practitioners, particularly those with specialized training in mental health and MAID assessment, would be able to evaluate capacity and determine eligibility in these cases.The Government of Canada recognizes that there are complexities associated with extending access to MAID to individuals suffering solely from mental illness, such as whether the person’s condition can be considered “incurable” or “irremediable” and challenges in assessing capacity. That is why the new legislation on MAID includes a 24-month sunset clause on the exclusion of MAID requests where mental illness is the sole condition. Importantly, the sunset clause in the legislation is accompanied by a legislative requirement to initiate an independent review by experts to consider protocols, guidance and safeguards that would be applied to MAID requests by persons who have a mental illness.The Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness was launched in August 2021 to undertake this review. Members of the Expert Panel reflect a range of disciplines and perspectives, including clinical psychiatry, MAID assessment and provision, law, ethics, health professional training and regulation, mental health care services, as well as lived experience with mental illness.The Expert Panel must submit a report of its conclusions and recommendations, which will be tabled in Parliament. This will provide Parliamentarians with time to consider whether additional safeguards should be added to Canada’s legal framework for MAID, and it will provide health professional regulatory bodies and associations with the information they need to develop appropriate guidance and resources.The new legislation also requires that a comprehensive review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to medical assistance in dying and their application be undertaken by a Joint Committee of both Houses of Parliament. The Parliamentary Review must address (but not necessarily be limited to) the topics of mature minors, advance requests, mental illness, the state of palliative care in Canada, and the protection of Canadians with disabilities. The Joint Committee was formed in the spring of 2021.Addressing mental health remains an important priority for the Government of Canada. Mental illness affects many Canadian families and individuals, and has an impact on our economy and society as a whole. Since 2015, our government has made significant investments to support the mental health of Canadians, including:
    • $598 million for a distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategy for Indigenous peoples;
    • $140 million to support veterans’ dealing with PTSD, depressive, and anxiety disorders; and,
    • $45 million for national mental health care standards.
Through Budget 2017, Canada made a historic investment of $5 billion over 10 years to improve access to mental health and addiction services. Budget 2019 also provided $25 million over 5 years to develop, implement, expand, and sustain a fully operational pan-Canadian suicide prevention service. Through this initiative, people across Canada will have access to crisis support in English and French when they need it using the technology of their choice – either voice, text or online chat.More recently, in April 2020, the Government of Canada launched the Wellness Together Canada portal, the first national program of its kind, providing a 24/7 suite of free, evidence-based mental health and substance use tools and services. Through Wellness Together Canada, individuals across the country can access supports ranging from self-assessment and peer support to confidential sessions with social workers, psychologists and other mental health professionals.To date, the government of Canada has invested $130 million in Wellness Together Canada. Since its launch, almost 2 million individuals across all provinces and territories have accessed the Wellness Together Canada portal in over 5.5 million web sessions. Additionally, through Budget 2021, the Government committed $45 million over two years to develop national standards for mental health, in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations, and key stakeholders.Through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada also committed $500 million in support during the pandemic for Canadians experiencing mental health challenges, homelessness, or substance use. Budget 2021 also announced $100 million to support the mental health of those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, seniors, 2SLGBTQQIA+, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Black and other racialized populations. It also provided $50 million to address PTSD and trauma in front line and essential service providers and those most affected.In 2022-23, to ensure that mental health care is treated as a full and equal part of our universal health care system, Health Canada will begin work to establish a new Canada Mental Health Transfer, to expand the delivery of high quality, accessible and free mental health services, including for prevention and treatment. In addition, the department will sustain efforts to improve access to virtual mental health supports, as well as establish a new fund to support the mental health of post-secondary students, including improving wait times for services and increasing access overall. This will include targeted supports to Black, Indigenous, and racialized students at post-secondary institutions across Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY GARY ANANDASANGAREEMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal matter for many Canadians and their families. Last year, our Government passed, Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying), which responds to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime. Bill C-7 also temporarily excluded mental illness as a medical condition that can ground eligibility.The Government believes that those who are experiencing persistent and intolerable suffering from their medical condition should be allowed to decide for themselves when they wish to end their life, and that medical and nurse practitioners who are willing to help them have a peaceful and painless death should not be criminally culpable for doing so.However, our Government recognizes the difficult issues that arise when a mental illness is the sole underlying medical condition for a MAID request. This is why Bill C-7, as adopted, excludes mental illness as a medical condition that can ground eligibility until March 2023. This temporary exclusion will provide time for a panel of experts and a Parliamentary Committee to advise the Government on protocols, guidance and safeguards to apply to MAID requests by persons who have a mental illness.
C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying)Health care systemMedical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00055441-00055 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 13, 2021January 31, 2022March 8, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, conversion therapy has historically referred to coercive, degrading actions that seek to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity which are wrong and should be banned;Whereas, Bill C-6 defines conversion therapy as "a practice, treatment or service designed to change a person's sexual orientation to heterosexual, to change a person's gender identity or gender expression to cisgender or to repress or reduce non-heterosexual attraction or sexual behavior or non-cisgender gender expression";Whereas, this broad definition wrongly applies the label "conversion therapy" to a broad range of practices, including counsel from parents, teachers, and counsellors encouraging children to reduce sexual behavior;Whereas, Bill C-6 expressly allows counselling, medical, and surgical efforts to change a child's gender, but prohibits support for a child seeking to de-transition to his or her birth (cis) gender;Whereas, Bill C-6 could restrict the choices of LGBTQ2 Canadians concerning sexuality and gender by prohibiting access to any professional or spiritual support freely chosen to limit sexual behaviour or de-transition.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Ban coercive, degrading practices that are designed to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity;2. Amend Bill C-6 to Fix the Definition of Conversion Therapy, thus banning Conversion Therapy without banning voluntary counselling or criminalizing conversations; and3. Allow parents to speak with their own children about sexuality and gender, and to set house rules about sex and relationships.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeConversion therapy is a scientifically discredited practice that discriminates against LGBTQ2 Canadians by telling them that they should change a fundamental part of who they are – their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. That is why our Government is proud to have passed Bill C-4, which criminalizes causing another person to undergo conversion therapy, removing a minor from Canada to subject them to conversion therapy abroad, profiting from conversion therapy and advertising or promoting it.Conversion therapy practices aim to change an individual’s sexual orientation to heterosexual, to change an individual’s gender identity to cisgender, or to change their gender expression to match the sex they were assigned at birth. They harm and further stigmatize sexual and gender-diverse persons and undermine their equality and dignity. They reflect myths and stereotypes about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and Two-Spirit (LGBTQ2) communities particularly that their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression are wrong. These harmful practices also reinforce heteronormative and cis-normative ideas, as well as gender-conformity on LGBTQ2 individuals.Consistent with its important objective of ending an inherently discriminatory practice, Bill C-4 defines conversion therapy as any practice, treatment or service that is designed to make a person conform to heteronormative or cisnormative standards. Bill C-4’s conversion therapy definition also clarifies that interventions that help a person explore or develop their identity are not conversion therapy unless they are based on the false assumption that a particular sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression is preferable to another.The consensus demonstrated by Parliamentarians in Canada on C-4 is a part of an emerging global consensus surrounding the real and life - long harms for conversion therapy victims and survivors, and our Government is proud to be a global leader in ending this abhorrent practice.
An Act to amend the Criminal Code (conversion therapy)Conversion therapyGender identity and gender expressionSexual minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00271441-00271 (Health)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABMarch 24, 2022May 9, 2022January 27, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding protecting young persons online – a very important issue. The Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians. As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content, including child sexual exploitation content and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.The Government is committed to getting this right. From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The Government subsequently released a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways from the consultation. As a next step following the release of the report, on March 30, 2022, the Government announced the creation of an expert advisory group to generate advice on a revised legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The advisory group’s objective is to provide advice to support the Government in developing legislation on online safety. The group’s discussions include topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online, child sexual exploitation, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.  Engagement with the expert group is done in an open and transparent manner, so that all interested parties can follow along. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlAll Canadians should be able to express themselves online without being subject to hateful or threatening attacks. The Government will take some time to further engage with experts, stakeholders and interested parties to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01074441-01074 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 30, 2023March 20, 2023June 11, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, Following Azerbaijan's 44-day war against the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorono-Karabakh), a trilateral ceasefire agreement was signed between Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia - outside of the purview of the OSCE Minsk Group - ceasing all hostilities on the territory of the Republic of Artsakh.Whereas, while failing to address many challenges facing the region, the agreement specifically included a term relating to the return of prisoners of war and the exchange of the remains of fatalities.Whereas, despite such provisions, as many as 200 Armenian Prisoners of War (POW) illegally remain in Azerbaijani custody, without any transparent mechanisms in place to ensure their safe return.Whereas, since December 2020, Human Rights Watch has published two reports on the status of Armenian POW’s, confirming that they are being subjected to inhuman treatment, torture, humiliation, and other forms of abuse.Whereas, on February 1st, 2021, The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights released a statement, calling for the immediate release of POW’s.Whereas, on May 4, 2021, disturbing reports confirmed that close to 20 POW’s were mutilated and killed by Azerbaijani forces. This is a violation of international law by Azerbaijan, specifically as it relates to the provisions laid out in the Third Geneva Convention, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), all of which are signed by Azerbaijan.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Condemn Azerbaijan's illegal detention of Armenian POW’s and call for their immediate release;2. Use all the diplomatic tools available to advocate for the release of those held captive;3. Condemn the ongoing state-sponsored anti-Armenian hatred in Azerbaijan;4. Denounce all aggressive rhetoric from Turkey and Azerbaijan against Armenia and Artsakh;5. Provide the necessary humanitarian assistance to ensure the safety and viability of the population of Artsakh and facilitate the exchange of the remains of fatalities.
Response by the Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of CanadaSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuCanada supports a negotiated political solution to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and engages regularly with both parties and consistently calls for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Canada also support the efforts by the European Union and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe in bringing the parties together.Canada is closely monitoring the situation related to the Armenian Prisoners of War (POWs) and other detainees, and is aware of the difficulties in securing their release. The release of POWs and detainees remains a priority, and Canada will continue to raise concerns whenever the opportunity arises. Canada welcome the recent release of some Armenian prisoners by Azerbaijan, and will continue to call for the immediate release of all detainees as a key step in the confidence-building process through both bilateral and multilateral channels.Canada remains deeply concerned about the allegations of human rights violations facing Armenian POWs and detainees, and calls on the respective governments to fully abide by the simultaneous orders issued by the International Court of Justice for provisional measures against both Armenia and Azerbaijan, including to take all necessary measures to prevent the incitement and promotion of racial hatred, including by officials and public institutions, and to protect persons captured by Azerbaijan during the conflict from bodily harm. Canada continue to call on respective governments to investigate human rights allegations diligently in compliance with international human rights law.Since 2020, Canada has contributed $2.3 million in financial support, both for humanitarian assistance as well as mine action activities to protect both Armenian and Azerbaijani civilians from the threat of explosive remnants. This includes recent funding from the Emergency Disaster Assistance Fund for an emergency relief operation launched by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in October 2022 to support the provision of basic needs assistance, and other humanitarian services including mental health and psychosocial support services, health assistance, and hygiene promotion. Canada is also closely monitoring ongoing blockages of the Lachin corridor, and have called for the reopening of the corridor to ensure the freedom of movement and avoid further humanitarian impact.On June, 29, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that Canada will open a full embassy with a resident ambassador in Armenia, allowing for stronger bilateral ties and increased Canadian support for Armenian democracy. This diplomatic expansion will help guide Canada’s response to evolving security threats, enhance political and economic cooperation to support European Allies, and further counter the impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and support Armenia in its democratic development.
ArmeniaAzerbaijanForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workersPrisoners of war
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2022441-00312441-00312 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 29, 2022May 12, 2022June 4, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding protecting young persons online – a very important issue. The Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians. As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content, including child sexual exploitation content and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.The Government is committed to getting this right. From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The Government subsequently released a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways from the consultation. As a next step following the release of the report, on March 30, 2022, the Government announced the creation of an expert advisory group to generate advice on a revised legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The advisory group’s objective is to provide advice to support the Government in developing legislation on online safety. The group’s discussions include topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online, child sexual exploitation, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.  Engagement with the expert group is done in an open and transparent manner, so that all interested parties can follow along. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlAll Canadians should be able to express themselves online without being subject to hateful or threatening attacks. The Government will take some time to further engage with experts, stakeholders and interested parties to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 25, 2022441-00216441-00216 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 4, 2022April 25, 2022June 6, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, Ethiopia has experienced alarming bouts of unrest and violence in the last year.Whereas, conflict has engulfed the Tigray region of Ethiopia leading to egregious human rights abuses and a humanitarian crisis.Whereas, humanitarian actors and independent journalists and researchers have almost no access to the effected regions.Whereas, Ethiopian and Eritrean federal armed forces, forces affiliated with the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF), and Ethiopian regional and militia forces, have all taken part in the conflict.Whereas, credible reports indicate that war crimes, such as the indiscriminate shelling of civilian towns and villages, extrajudicial killings, at least one largescale massacre, looting, and sexual violence, have all occurred in Tigray.Whereas, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with increasing reports of rising hunger, limited access to food and other life-saving assistance, and a collapsed healthcare system in the Tigray region.Whereas, Ethiopia is one of the largest recipients of Canada's international assistance.Whereas, elections are scheduled to take place in Ethiopia later this year.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Immediately call for an end to violence and for restraint from all sides/parties involved in the Tigray conflict.2. Immediately call for humanitarian access to the region and for independent monitoring to be allowed.3. Immediately call for international investigations into credible reports of war crimes and gross violations of human rights law.4. Engage directly and consistently with the Ethiopian and Eritrean Governments on this conflict.5. Promote short, medium, and long-term elections monitoring in Ethiopia.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights, democracy, and fundamental freedoms, as well as the protection of civilians, are all integral elements of Canada’s position on foreign policy. The Government of Canada is committed to standing up for human rights and striving for a world where the well-being, rights, and freedoms of all people are protected and respected.On March 24, 2022, the Government of Ethiopia announced a humanitarian truce and efforts to advance a cessation of hostilities and to allow immediate humanitarian access. On March 25 2022, the Tigray regional state authorities promised an immediate ceasefire if the people of Tigray received humanitarian aid equivalent to their needs within a reasonable timeframe. Canada welcomes these commitments and urges all parties to the conflict to allow and facilitate rapid and unhindered passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need, as required by international humanitarian law. The Government of Canada is working closely with its humanitarian partners, including UN agencies, the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement, and non-governmental organizations, to help address the immediate life-saving needs of affected populations, both within Ethiopia and those who have sought safety as refugees in Sudan. In 2021, Canada provided more than $43 million to address humanitarian needs in Ethiopia, including those arising from the conflict.The Government of Canada, along with its G7 partners and other members of the international community, is deeply concerned by serious human rights violations and abuses as well as violations of international humanitarian law in Ethiopia. Furthermore, it is disturbed by evidence of widespread sexual violence by all parties across a number of regions in Ethiopia, including Afar, Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray. The Government of Canada unreservedly condemns the killing of civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, indiscriminate attacks, and the forced displacement of civilians.In 2021, the Government of Canada supported two resolutions at the Human Rights Council which called for an end to human rights violations in Ethiopia. Canada was also a major donor, with a contribution of $600,000, to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission’s joint investigation into the allegations of human rights violations and abuses, and of serious violations of international humanitarian law committed by parties to the conflict. On November 6, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of International Development issued a joint statement on the release of the investigation report by the United Nations and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and expressed the Government of Canada’s concerns about the findings. The Government of Canada acknowledges the Government of Ethiopia’s decision to create an Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Accountability and Redress of Violations Committed to oversee redress and accountability measures in response to human rights violations committed in the conflict in northern Ethiopia.The Government of Canada is also deeply concerned by the alarming trend of mass detentions of individuals from certain groups, such as ethnic Tigrayans, and urged the Government of Ethiopia to allow unhindered and timely access to detainees. These concerns were expressed on December 6 through a joint statement with Australia, Denmark, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The statement on detentions in Ethiopia highlighted that the Ethiopian government’s announcement of a state of emergency on November 2 is no justification for the mass detention of individuals from certain ethnic groups.On November 8, 2021, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with President Faki of the African Union Commission to discuss the rapidly deteriorating situation in Ethiopia, in particular, the intensification of the armed conflict, the humanitarian crisis, and human rights abuses as well as to reinforce the key partnership between Canada and the African Union. The Minister of Foreign Affairs also spoke on November 25, with Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Demeke Mekonnen to convey the Government of Canada’s concerns regarding the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation and military escalation in the country, and to reiterate Canada’s call for an immediate ceasefire. She has discussed the crisis on several occasions with G7 counterparts and others about this crisis, including with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken.Since November 2021, the Prime Minister has spoken five times with Prime Minister Abiy about the developments in northern Ethiopia and the importance of working toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict. This includes an immediate cessation of hostilities, the importance of the announcement by the Government of Ethiopia on March 24 of an open-ended indefinite humanitarian truce, and inclusive dialogue among all parties. The Prime Minister has reiterated the international legal obligation to ensure further access to, and delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict and has raised Canada’s concerns about human rights. The Prime Minister also held calls regarding the situation in Ethiopia with UN Secretary-General Guterres and with African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa Obasanjo, amongst others, to reinforce Canada’s commitment to supporting efforts to end the conflict peacefully.The Government of Canada has repeatedly called for the establishment of a clear inclusive political process that is acceptable to all Ethiopians, including the citizens of Tigray, and which leads to a wider national reconciliation process. On June 25, 2021, Canada, with like-minded partners, issued a statement on the Ethiopian elections, calling on the Government of Ethiopia and all stakeholders to establish a broad-based national dialogue process and to commit to peaceful solutions. Canada funds programs that support the strengthening of Ethiopia’s democratic institutions, with a special focus on ensuring the participation of women, youth, and ethnic groups in the electoral process. In February 2020, the Government of Canada contributed $1 million to help strengthen the capacity of the National Election Board of Ethiopia to conduct credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections. Canada will continue to support democratic and electoral reforms that are beneficial to and inclusive of all Ethiopian citizens. Canada does not provide budgetary support or other development assistance directly to the Government of Ethiopia.
Civil and human rightsElectoral observation missionsEthiopiaForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workers
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00023441-00023 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABDecember 1, 2021January 31, 2022November 22, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas.  The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits.  The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics.  The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors.  The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
 The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less-isolated areas of the country.  The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems.  The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging.  Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion.  It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system. It is important that the Government receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00027441-00027 (Food and drink)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCDecember 3, 2021January 31, 2022December 2, 2021Petition to the Government of Canada: WHEREAS:
  • Farmers Markets are a key tool for covid-19 recovery as small business incubators, domestics system and food security builders, and local economy community builders and Farmers' Market Coupon Programs are a key support for new Market development and support for existing Markets and their provincial Associations;
  • Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs help create food security and resiliency by giving vulnerable people access to healthy locally grown foods and dietary education while positively impacting the physical and mental health of participants by increasing the amount and diversity of fruits and vegetables they consume;
  • The BC Farmers' Market Association with 135 member markets and 4000+ vendors and it's long-term partnership with the province of BC provides an excellent model for Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs; providing almost 16000 vulnerable families, seniors and pregnant women with access to weekly coupons, and seeing 1,909,000 to local farmers. Their current program has an average coupon redemption rate of over 91% and 79% of those participants claim the program made a long term change in their eating habits; and
  • A national matching program would assist in meeting those demands, encourage provinces without a provincial program to create one, and support those provinces who have a provincial program to expand to meet demand.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Motion M-78 and initiate a national matching program for all provincial Farmers' Markets Nutrition Coupon Programs across Canada that would match provinces who are already contributing to their Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program and encourage Provinces that do not have such a program to implement one by offering matching funding
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MPOn June 17, 2019, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) launched the first Food Policy for Canada, a whole-of-government approach supporting the vision that “All people in Canada are able to access a sufficient amount of safe, nutritious and culturally diverse food. Canada’s food system is resilient and innovative, sustains our environment, and supports our economy.”The Food Policy for Canada is an ambitious initiative, the product of consultation and collaboration with Canadians across the country. The Government of Canada heard from more than 45,000 Canadians, including agricultural producers and processors, experts in environment, health and food security, Indigenous groups, non-government organizations, and community advocates.Recognizing the importance of helping communities access healthy food, AAFC is delivering the Local Food Infrastructure Fund, a Food Policy initiative with $50 million in funding to strengthen local food systems and to facilitate access to safe and nutritious food for at-risk populations.The first phase of the Local Food Infrastructure Fund provided up to $25,000 for 362 projects for a total investment of $6.6 million. This funding supported projects including community gardens, the purchase of refrigerated trucks, kitchen and other equipment needed to prepare, store and distribute food, and the installation of solar panels and irrigation systems.In April 2020, the Government launched the Emergency Food Security Fund, to help improve access to food for people experiencing food insecurity in Canada that has been exacerbated as a result of COVID-19. Through this initiative, AAFC has made available up to $200 million to food banks and other food assistance organizations to support the urgent food needs of Canadians.The Government of Canada invested an additional $140 million in 2021-22 through Budget 2021 to top up the Emergency Food Security Fund and Local Food Infrastructure Fund.As Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs (FMNCPs) help address food insecurity by providing vulnerable people access to healthy locally grown foods, funding may be available as part of the Emergency Food Security Fund through contacting the intermediary organizationsthat distribute funding.In British Columbia, the FMNCP program is supported by the Province of British Columbia, the Provincial Health Services Authority and community donors. The Public Health Agency of Canada’s Multisectoral Partnership Program supported a similar initiative, with an investment of $1.5M from 2020 to 2024 to expand Community Food Centres Canada’s Market Greens initiative to 30 locations across Canada. The Market Greens initiative supports increased access to low-cost fresh produce markets and offers fruit and vegetable vouchers/coupons that can be used at participating local affordable markets.Thank you for the sharing your proposal to improve Canadians’ access to healthy, local foods through farmers markets and FMNCPs. The Government of Canada remains committed to considering all opportunities to improve food security for Canadians and a vibrant, productive agriculture sector in Canada. 
Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon ProgramFarmers marketsFood and drinkFood supply
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01559441-01559 (National defence and military operations)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 14, 2023August 16, 2023September 14, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination produced its final report in early 2022;Whereas the report calls for clergy from religions which have a different view on gender and sexuality than the Department of National Defence to be banned as chaplains in the Canadian Armed Forces;Whereas the report slanders even mainstream Canadian religions as discriminatory, misogynist, and sexist;Whereas all Canadians, including members and chaplains of the Canadian Armed Forces, are entitled to the Charter-guaranteed right of freedom of religion;Whereas Canadian Armed Forces chaplains serve all members of the Forces without distinction on the basis of religion, gender, or sexual orientation; andWhereas discrimination on the basis of religion is wrong and offensive to Canadians.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Reject the recommendations on chaplaincy in the Canadian Armed Forces in the final report of the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination; and2. Affirm the right of all Canadians, including Canadian Armed Forces chaplains, to freedom of religion.
Response by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayIn April 2022, the Minister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination released a comprehensive set of recommendations to ensure Canada’s military is safe and welcoming for all. Work is underway to assess the implications of the Advisory Panel’s recommendations, including those on the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, and the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff is coordinating an analysis of each recommendation.The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service’s (RCChS) primary goal is the care of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, without exceptions. It is already the expectation that CAF chaplains uphold the values and ethos of the CAF, just like every other member of the military. When chaplains apply for their roles within the chaplaincy, they undergo a rigorous process to assess their ability to provide spiritual support within the context of CAF values. Anyone who successfully makes it through this assessment has demonstrated their ability to provide religious or spiritual counsel to CAF members of all or no faiths, without judgement or exception.To this end, the RCChS continues to embrace CAF values and ethos, and has taken significant steps in the past several years to strengthen its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For example, as of 2019, in order to better serve the CAF and represent the religious/spiritual diversity of Canadian society, the RCChS sought to include a wider number of traditions not previously represented in CAF chaplaincy. This resulted in the enrollment of chaplains from Sikh, Buddhist, and Humanist traditions. The RCChS also shifted from the historical requirement of “ordained” status to a more broadly defined status of “credentialed as a faith tradition leader.” In doing so, the RCChS has ensured wider opportunities for women from faith traditions where they cannot be ordained, but who meet qualification standards for CAF chaplaincy as credentialed faith tradition leaders. This is already the case for Roman Catholic and Muslim women, currently serving in the RCChS, and will now be an option for women from other faith traditions.To further promote diversity and inclusion, the RCChS has instituted several new advisor positions, including an Indigenous Advisor, 2SLGBTQi+ Advisor, Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Advisor, Gender Advisor, and Advisor to the Commander of Chief Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC) in an effort to raise awareness, educate, and innovate. These advisors play a critical role in providing strategic input and advice to ensure direction and guidance, and programs integrate diverse perspectives with a view to enhancing inclusive engagement on behalf of the RCChS. The CAF continues to take positive steps to ensure that the chaplaincy represents Canadian society and supports the needs of its broader membership.
Canadian ForcesChaplaincy services and chaplainsMinister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism, Discrimination with a focus on anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism, LGBTQ2+ Prejudice, Gender Bias and White SupremacyReligious discrimination
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01100441-01100 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 2, 2023March 20, 2023October 11, 2022Petition to the House of Commons Whereas:1. The Canada Health Act provides a framework to insure Canada would have a world class health care system based on five fundamental principles;2. The five principles include public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility;3. Both the Federal and Provincial Governments have a responsibility to insure there is a sense of equity in fairness of services no matter where a person lives in Canada; and4. Extra attention should be given to issues like mental health, cancer care, long term care, recognizing immigrant healthcare workers and ways to improve and expand our healthcare services in general.We, the undersigned residents of the Province of Manitoba, call upon the Government of Canada to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to insure quality healthcare services in all regions of Canada.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Canada Health Act, Canada’s federal health care insurance legislation, aims to ensure that all eligible residents of Canadian provinces and territories have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital, physician, and surgical-dental services that require a hospital setting (i.e., insured health services) on a prepaid basis, without charges related to the provision of insured health care services.The Act sets out the criteria and conditions related to medically necessary insured health services that the provinces and territories must fulfill to receive the full federal cash contribution available under the Canada Health Transfer (CHT). These criteria are public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility.While the federal government plays a role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes setting their own priorities, administering their health care budgets, and managing their own resources.The Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments to strengthen health care systems to ensure they continue to meet the needs of Canadians and has taken leadership in engaging with the jurisdictions to address key health care priorities.Most recently, On February 7,2023, Prime Minister and his provincial and territorial counterparts discussed actions needed to improve the health care system while adapting to the changing needs of Canadians.The government put forward a comprehensive plan to improve the health care system – to chart a path forward together. The plan is supported by a significant investment of $198.6 billion over 10 years, including $46.2 billion in new funding to provinces and territories, which Premiers have accepted. This funding will be distributed partly through the Canada Health Transfer and partly through tailor-made bilateral agreements with provinces and territories that allow for flexibility for jurisdictional health care system needs. This funding includes the following elements:
  • An immediate, unconditional $2 billion CHT top-up to address immediate pressures on the health care system, especially in pediatric hospitals and emergency rooms, and long wait times for surgeries;
  • A 5 per cent CHT guarantee for the next five years, which will be provided through annual top-up payments as required;
  • $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in the four areas of shared priority;
  • $1.7 billion over five years to support hourly wage increases for personal support workers and related professions, as federal, provincial and territorial governments work together on how best to support recruitment and retention; and,
  • $175 million over five years for the Territorial Health Investment Fund in recognition of medical travel and the cost of delivering health care in the territories.
In addition, the government will work with Indigenous partners to provide additional support for Indigenous health priorities, with $2 billion over 10 years to address the unique challenges Indigenous Peoples face when it comes to fair and equitable access to quality and culturally safe health care services.The Government of Canada will work collaboratively with provinces and territories on four shared health priorities to improve integrated health care for Canadians:
  • Expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • Supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • Improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • Modernising the health care system with standardised health data and digital tools.
Helping Canadians age with dignity, closer to home, with access to home care or care in a safe long-term care facility is another area of priority.In addition to investments announced, the government is actively working with provinces and territories to ensure that we improve our health care system in a matter that strengthens its public, accessible, and universal nature by respecting the Canada Health Act. On March 10, the Minister of Health, announced mandatory Canada Health Transfer (CHT) deductions totalling over $82 million in respect of patient charges levied during 2020-21 for medically necessary services that should be accessible to patients at no cost. He also announced next steps to curb private medically necessary health care being paid out-of-pocket by Canadians, with a focus on virtual care and other medically necessary services that Canadians are being asked to pay for. The Minister of Health has also sent a letter to his provincial and territorial colleagues reiterating our collective responsibility in ensuring Canadians’ ability to access medically necessary services without having to pay out of pocket, no matter where they live in the country or how care is delivered.As part of the Budget 2017 commitment to improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, the Government is investing $11 billion over 10 years to increase supports for Canadians. Bilateral agreements, detailing how federal investment between 2017-18 and 2021-22 would help improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, were negotiated with all provinces and territories and posted to the Government of Canada’s website.As a result of this investment, provinces and territories have implemented new initiatives to improve access and spread evidence-based models of mental health and addiction services, with a particular focus on strengthening supports for children and youth.Another priority for the government is meeting the needs of seniors, including helping to ensure they can access the safe, quality health care they need and deserve. To address the significant challenges revealed during COVID-19, the federal government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care (LTC) Fund in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement. This fund transferred $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care.Budget 2021 also provided $3 billion over five years to support provinces and territories in their efforts to improve long-term care in their jurisdictions. The Government of Canada believes that strengthening compliance and enforcement activities in LTC facilities, as well as supporting workforce stability through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions, is essential to improving safety and care for patients, and creating a more positive and healthier environment for all who live or work in LTC.In January 2023, the government welcomed the release of independent LTC standards from the Health Standards Organization and CSA Group. These standards provide guidance for delivering services that are safe, reliable and centred on residents’ needs; foster a healthy and competent workforce; and create safer physical environments by promoting a culture of quality improvement and learning across LTC homes.Canadians want to age closer to home and family, but also expect long-term care to be safe, if it is needed. As such, the government is looking at developing a Safe LTC Act to help ensure seniors get the care they deserve, while respecting provincial and territorial jurisdiction. In the coming months, the Government of Canada will move forward with consultations and engagement with stakeholders and Canadians on the Safe LTC Act. In addition, the Government of Canada provides funding to a suite of pan-Canadian Health Organizations who provide a national leadership role on a broad range of pan-Canadian health priorities.This includes the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) that works with partners across Canada to accelerate and introduce programs to restore and sustain cancer care in the wake of the pandemic, drive faster innovation to improve access to world-class screening; address inequities in care for underserved populations, and advance the priorities and actions of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control (2019-2029).Further, the government seeks to bolster our health care system by addressing the workforce crisis by attracting and retaining foreign-born health care workers   While the licensing of immigrant health care workers is under the purview of the provincial and territorial colleges, the federal government has made it easier for foreign-born physicians to remain in Canada, so they can continue to practice in the country. The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada continues to prioritize temporary resident work permit applications for essential workers in health care, and in 2022, the department accepted over 8,600 temporary and permanent resident applications from foreign nationals intending to work in the health sector. More information on this initiative can be found at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2022/09/easier-access-to-permanent-residence-for-physicians-in-canada-to-help-address-doctor-shortages.html.Most recently, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship launched a call for proposals under the Foreign Credential Recognition Program. Up to $90 million will be invested in projects that will help remove barriers preventing qualified and skilled newcomers from gaining Canadian work experience in their own profession or field of study. These projects will give internationally educated health professionals the support and experience needed to pursue opportunities in the areas where we need their skills most.Canadians and their families deserve timely access to health care services they need, and they expect their governments to work together to find immediate and longer-term solutions to these challenges. The federal government will continue working closely with provinces and territories s to help ensure all Canadians have equitable access to medically necessary care based on their needs, not their ability to pay.
Federal-provincial-territorial relationsHealth care system
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00717441-00717 (Justice)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONSeptember 28, 2022November 14, 2022September 27, 2022Petition to the Government of Canada
  • On April 29, 2022, the Liberal government introduced an order to introduce further restrictions with a 'shadow registry' on licensed firearms owners in Canada;
  • The previous gun registry cost taxpayers over 1 billion dollars;
  • The Auditor General's report found that the program did not collect data to analyze the effectiveness of the gun registry in meeting its stated goal of improving public safety. The performance report focuses on activities such as issuing licences and registering firearms. The Centre does not show how these activities help minimize risks to public safety with evidence-based outcomes such as reduced deaths, injuries and threats from firearms;
  • Providing personal information to private sellers can result in identity theft and fraud;
  • This will unfairly cost businesses countless dollars in wages and time to process; and
  • This unfairly targets Canadian firearms owners who are already among the most vetted in Canadian society, Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) and Restricted PAL (RPAL) holders are subject to daily screening and are statistically proven to be less likely to commit crimes than non-PAL and non-RPAL holders.
We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately repeal the order issued April 29, 2022.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.The Government has implemented a variety of measures to ensure public safety and control firearms in Canada.Former Bill C-71, which received Royal Assent in 2019, included measures to keep firearms out of the hands of people who should not have them as well as to enable the tracing of firearms used in crime. In July 2021, the Government brought into force measures from that Bill. This includes expanded background checks for firearms licence applications to capture the lifetime of an applicant, rather than just the five years preceding the application. Before granting a firearms licence, the Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) must now consider whether the applicant has a history of harassment, restraining orders, or otherwise poses a danger to another person.Another measure brought into force was the reinstatement of the Authorization to Transport (ATT), which requires individuals to obtain an authorization from their CFO to transport restricted and prohibited firearms within our communities. Individuals must now seek a CFO’s discretionary authorization to transport these firearms to destinations other than a shooting range or to their home following a purchase.On May 18, 2022, the Government brought into force the final measures to implement former Bill C-71; licence verification and business record-keeping. These measures were in place from 1979 until the institution of the long gun registry in 2005. These common sense measures will protect public safety by reducing the risk of non-restricted firearms being sold or given to anyone who does not possess a valid firearms licence.Additionally, former Bill C-71 included a provision clarifying that the Government could not recreate the long gun registry.  No information about non-restricted firearms will be held by the Government. This information will be held by businesses and law enforcement will be required to have a valid purpose in order to access the records (e.g., to trace a crime gun), often with a warrant.
Firearms ActGun control
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00836441-00836 (Business and trade)AlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordNDPBCNovember 3, 2022January 18, 2023September 27, 2022Petition to Whereas,
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill C-262, an example of human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Terry SheehanThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights, labour and environmental standards. This is reflected in the mandate letter commitment shared by multiple ministers to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and ensure that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses.Further to this commitment, the Government published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains:  What We Heard Report (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/reports/what-we-heard-forced-labour-global-supply-chain.html) in March 2022, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and share any additional feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals and the Government will continue to consider the results of consultations moving forward.Parliament is actively engaged on this matter and there was unanimous support to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and to amend the Customs Tariff,studied by Committee.The Government supports the referral of Bill S-211 to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development and will look to strengthen and bolster the proposed legislation.This is a complex endeavour that requires careful consideration of supply chain legislation appropriate to the Canadian context. It remains a relatively novel undertaking, and the effectiveness of various legislative models is yet to be determined. For that reason, we will continuously re-evaluate and reassess the steps we take on this matter.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business conduct (RBC) abroad.For example, Canada is party to a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights, including conventions addressing situations of child labour and forced labour. The Government continues to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Trade sanctions or financial penalties can be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. The National Strategy is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. As part of this National Strategy, the Government aims to encourage industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour in government procurement supply chains.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their subcontractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that it can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.On January 12, 2021, in coordination with international partners, Canada announced measures in response to concerns about human rights violations in the People’s Republic of China involving members of the Uyghur ethnic minority and other minorities within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang). These include a specialized Xinjiang Integrity Declaration as a prerequisite for Canadian companies with business ties to the region to receive Trade Commissioner Service support; a business advisory on Xinjiang-related entities; enhanced advice to Canadian businesses; export controls; increased awareness-raising for RBC related to Xinjiang; and a study on forced labour and supply chain risks, which is available on Global Affairs Canada’s website.At the September 2022 G7 Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, G7 partners committed to further coordinate efforts with international partners to take measures to strengthen cooperation and collective efforts towards eradicating the use of all forms of forced labour and child labour in global supply chains. This commitment includes measures that promote corporate due diligence, as well as working to further enhance predictability and certainty for businesses.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in their operations, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines on RBC, such as the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Publications/GuidingPrinciplesBusinessHR_EN.pdf), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (https://www.oecd.org/daf/inv/mne/48004323.pdf), and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (https://www.ilo.org/empent/Publications/WCMS_094386/lang--en/index.htm). To this end, Global Affairs Canada released its RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad – no matter their size, sector, or scope – to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains and to help them mitigate risks. The Strategy strengthens Canada’s balanced approach to RBC, which includes preventative measures, legislation in select areas, and access to dispute resolution.In terms of access to dispute resolution, the Government of Canada supports Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). The NCP is mandated to offer facilitated dialogue and mediation to all sectors on issues covered by the OECD Guidelines, including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery. The NCP can address complaints directed at the activities of multinational enterprises in Canada and the operations of Canadian multinational enterprises operating abroad. The CORE can review complaints of alleged human rights abuses by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil and gas, and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies will participate in good faith in these dispute resolution processes. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of or follow-up to a review process, both the NCP and the CORE can recommend the withdrawal of Trade Commissioner Service support and that Export Development Canada and the Canadian Commercial Corporation also withdraw future support. The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. The two mechanisms can offer effective and accessible alternatives to judicial processes, although they do not preclude a party from addressing the issues in other fora. The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation.   
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00902441-00902 (Taxation)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABDecember 1, 2022January 30, 2023November 17, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Inflation has 7.7% in Canada as of May 2022, putting more financial burdens on Canadian households;
  • Gas prices have jumped by more than 50 per cent, pushing the cost of a litre to more than $2 in parts of Canada;
  • Per Natural Resources Canada, the federal government charges an excise tax of 10 cents per litre on leaded gasoline, 4 cents per litre on diesel, an additional 5% through GST, and another 11 cents per litre because of the carbon tax, marking up gas prices by nearly 20%;
  • The governments of Alberta, Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador have announced a reduction in provincial taxes collected from fuel sales to make life more affordable for residents of their province. Ontario households expected to benefit from an average combined savings of about $465 in 2022;
  • US President Joe Biden has called for a 3-month pause on the federal 18-cent-per-gallon fuel tax, while the U.K., Italy, and Germany have announced lowering fuel taxes, France has announced a consumer rebate, and Japan has announced a subsidy to wholesalers all to tackle record-high gas prices; and
  • The current federal taxes on gas purchases are punitive measures that are hurting Canadian households during a rapidly increasing cost-of-living crisis.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Finance to suspend the federal excise tax and carbon tax for Canadians until the cost-of-living crisis has been resolved.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandClimate action is critical to Canada’s long-term health and economic prosperity. Pollution pricing is widely recognized as effective and the most efficient means of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, which is why the Government of Canada has made sure that it is no longer free to pollute in Canada.The federal price on pollution is revenue neutral for the federal government; the direct proceeds from the federal pollution pricing system remain in the province or territory where they are collected. Put simply, every dollar collected from the pollution price is returned.In Yukon and Nunavut, the direct proceeds from the federal fuel charge are returned to the governments of these jurisdictions. In provinces that do not have a fuel charge consistent with the federal benchmark – Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta – 90 percent of direct proceeds from the federal fuel charge are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments. Most households receive more in CAI payments than the costs they face from the federal price on pollution. The other 10 percent is used to support small businesses, farmers and Indigenous groups.In 2023-24, the federal fuel charge will continue to apply in these provinces, and will come into effect as of July 1, 2023 in Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia, where 90 percent of direct proceeds will be also returned to residents through Climate Action Incentive payments. Starting in July 2023, a family of four will receive $328 in Newfoundland and Labrador, $240 in Prince Edward Island and $248 in Nova Scotia each quarter; starting in April 2023, such a family will receive $244 in Ontario, $264 in Manitoba, $340 in Saskatchewan, and $386 in Alberta on a quarterly basis. Families in rural and small communities are eligible to receive an extra 10 percent. Some 8 out of 10 families receiving Climate Action Incentive payments get more money back than they pay in direct costs under this system, with families that earn less benefitting the most, on average.With respect to the federal excise tax on gasoline of 10 cents per litre, this rate has remained unchanged since 1995. This rate does not vary with the retail price of gasoline.To support those most affected by inflation, as of November 4, 2022, an estimated 11 million low- and modest-income people and families received an additional GST Credit payment, equivalent to doubling the credit for six months. Single Canadians without children received up to an extra $234, and couples with two children received up to an extra $467. Seniors received an extra $225 on average
Carbon pricingCarbon taxExcise taxes
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 3, 2023441-01186441-01186 (Health)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMarch 20, 2023May 3, 2023November 18, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The overdose crisis in Canada is a public health emergency, as has already been declared by British Columbia's Provincial Health Officer and several municipalities across Canada;
  • More than 13,900 individuals have died of opioid-related deaths and there have been 17,050 opioid-related poisoning hospitalizations in Canada since 2016;
  • There is disproportionate representation of Indigenous people affected by the overdose crisis; and
  • The Canadian Public Health Association, the Global Commission on Drug Policy, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations, have recommended drug decriminalization.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Declare a public health emergency due to overdose deaths in Canada;
  • Reframe the overdose crisis in Canada as a health issue rather than a criminal issue;
  • Take a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to the overdose crisis, by addressing issues of addiction, poverty, housing, health care, racial discrimination, and economic inequality and instability;
  • Listen to and act on recommendations made by social workers, front-line workers, nurses, doctors, drug users, and individuals directly involved in the drug-using community; and
  • Decriminalize drugs in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe toxic drug and overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the crisis has only become more complex due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience (PWLLE), to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis as a health issue and is working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives. Provinces and territories have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. For example, provinces and territories fund and deliver the majority of direct social and health interventions, such as naloxone distribution and supervised consumption sites, which are shown to effectively reduce overdoses deaths and harms. Provinces, territories and municipalities also have the power to declare a public health emergency in response to a significant increase in overdose-related deaths, as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta declaring a public health crisis in May 2017. More recently, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency in January 2022. The declaration of a provincial and territorial public health emergency allows a provincial and territorial government to access and exercise extraordinary powers to address a crisis. In addition to provincial and territorial emergency declarations, some First Nations communities have also declared emergencies in response to rising substance use-related harms and deaths, including Ehattesaht First Nation in British Columbia, and O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation in Manitoba.The Emergencies Act is not an appropriate mechanism to address the ongoing overdose crisis, which requires a longer-term, sustained, and multi-jurisdictional effort to address the complex, interrelated health, social and economic factors driving opioid-related deaths and harms. At the federal level, we have taken action by: reducing legislative and regulatory barriers; developing new prescription guidelines and marketing restrictions; launching a public awareness campaign; improving the knowledge base; supporting treatment, safer supply and harm reduction initiatives across Canada; working with domestic and international partners to reduce the illegal drug supply; and, providing emergency funding to provinces and territories.The Government of Canada recognizes that substance use is a public health issue, not an issue for the criminal justice system. We are committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant actions and made commitments of more than $800 million to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • Nearly $350 million to the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) between 2017-2022 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services; and,
  • $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction.
Budget 2023 proposes to provide a total of $359.2 $1.3 million in remaining amortization to support a renewed Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, which would guide the government's work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians. This includes:
  • $144 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Health Canada for the SUAP to fund community-based supports, including safer supply, supervised consumption sites, and other evidence-based health interventions;
  • $20.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada for a new community-based program to prevent substance use among young people; 
  • $73.9 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $4.6 million ongoing, to Health Canada to streamline authorizations for supervised consumption sites and drug checking services, scale-up access to safer supply, and evaluate innovative approaches;
  • $50.8 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $1.1 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to Health Canada; and $16 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada to support vital data collection on substance-related harms and lab-based analysis of the illegal drug supply;
  • $4.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Safety Canada to develop an overdose monitoring app for paramedics and other first responders; and,
  • $42 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police; $6.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Services and Procurement Canada; and $1.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, sourced from existing resources, to Global Affairs Canada to take further action to work with our partners to tackle drug trafficking and stem the global flow of these devastating substances.
Of note, under SUAP, more than $24 million has been allocated to fund Naloxone distribution, education and training. In addition, through SUAP, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches for greater access to pharmaceutical-grade alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of April 2023, Health Canada has supported 31 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through the SUAP representing total funding commitments of over $100 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects, and a National Safer Supply Community of Practice to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.Health Canada has supported the rapid expansion of supervised consumption services across Canada. Since January 2016, the number of federally approved supervised consumption sites (SCS) offering services grew from 1 to 40. Health Canada also proactively issued exemptions that allows provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing supervised consumption sites, shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Urgent Public Health Need Sites, unlike supervised consumption sites, are temporary locations that can be set up rapidly to address the overdose crisis. Both share the goal of reducing overdose deaths.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment and safer supply programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder; as well facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and  
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
The Government recognizes that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments to ensure that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.The Government of Canada is also working closely with provinces and territories to change the way our healthcare system delivers mental health and substance use services to Canadians. It is important for Canadians to have timely access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, quality mental health and substance use services that meet their needs, including underserved and equity-deserving individuals. That is why, on February 7, 2023, the Prime Minister announced that the federal government will invest $198.6 billion over ten years to bolster the health care system, notably: top-ups to the Canada Health Transfer to address immediate health care pressures; and $25 billion over 10 years to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements.In response to substance use harms and the opioid overdose crisis, the Government of Canada is regularly consulting with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. The Government regularly engages with PWLLE and organizations that represent them, including; regular bi-lateral meetings with key organizations; participation on projects teams; facilitating PWLLE engagement in government and ministerial events and meaningful consultations in order to better understand their perspectives of substance use; and, on-the- ground realities (e.g., roundtables, Knowledge Exchange Series, etc.).Health Canada established the PWLLE Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners.The Government of Canada continues collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, stakeholders and partners such as community-based organizations to reduce the harms associated with substance use and providing people with the culturally appropriate and trauma-informed support they need.Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of personal drug possession can, increase risks of overdose and other harms, increase barriers to care and perpetuate stigma. Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments encourage police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to reflect the Government’s public-health-focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada directing prosecutors that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for the personal possession of drugs, except where public safety concerns arise.In May 2022, at the request of the Province of British Columbia, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health granted a time-limited exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, where appropriate, individuals may be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they could also receive assistance to connect with those services. British Columbia requested this exemption, and it is an additional way that the federal government is supporting the province’s comprehensive approach to the overdose crisis. This time-limited exemption will be supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes. The results will help inform Canada’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance use harms. We have also received a request from Toronto Public Health, and we are working in close partnership to ensure both public health and public safety considerations are included. We will continue to work with willing jurisdictions to use all the tools at our disposal, including approaches related to decriminalization, to respond to this crisis.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01099441-01099 (Foreign affairs)JulieDabrusinToronto—DanforthLiberalONFebruary 2, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:We ask that the Government of Canada put into law that fulfilling promises made in the Paris accord by this country are heretofore mandatory for this and all subsequent governments and by all available means; Furthermore, we ask that the government of Canada send immediate aid to those in severely affected countries such as Pakistan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Yemen, Afghanistan, Syrian Arab Republic, Sudan, northern Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Zimbabwe, Haiti, Burkina Faso, and Yemen;Therefore, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to:
  • Release Canada's surplus of wheat to the above mentioned countries; and
  • Increase monetary donations substantially to countries suffering high rates of hunger and starvation as a result of climate change.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MP
  • The wheat grown, and currently in storage, in Canada is either the property of the producers who grew it, or the grain exporting companies who have purchased it from producers. In the case of wheat owned by grain-exporting companies, contracts have already been signed for its sale. Even with some of  the wheat still owned by producers, grain companies are in discussions regarding its sale to prospective customers.
  • That being the case, most wheat currently in storage in Canada has already been committed for sale to customers across the world.
  • Canadian wheat is sold at a premium compared to wheat grown by many other countries in the world (e.g. Ukraine, Russia, Kazakhstan, and much of the wheat grown in the European Union). If Canada were to commit to sending Canadian wheat to countries mentioned in the petition, the Government of Canada would have to purchase it from producers at current market prices.
  • Additionally, the majority of the countries listed in the petition purchase wheat with considerably lower protein levels than the high-protein wheat that Canada exports. Canadian wheat also has different functional characteristics (i.e. milling properties, dough development properties, and gluten characteristics) than lower protein wheats. In this context, millers and bakers in these countries will possibly not be familiar with how to use Canadian wheat in their processes, and will end up with products with vastly different properties than what citizens in those nations are used to (i.e. different product density, size, mouthfeel, etc.).
 
Response by the Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of CanadaSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anita VandenbeldIn 2021, as the global community called for increased climate ambition, Canada stepped up and announced a doubling of its international climate finance, from $2.65 billion (2015-2021) to $5.3 billion (2021-2026). To further strengthen its ability to help developing countries transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient, nature-positive, and inclusive sustainable development, Canada will continue to support women’s leadership and decision-making in climate action and ensure that at least 80% of climate projects integrate gender equality, in line with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy.The Government of Canada is committed to doing its part to address the global food crisis. Canada made significant new commitments to humanitarian food and nutrition assistance, including a record $650 million allocated in 2022. This was provided to key humanitarian food and nutrition UN and NGO partners to help provide life-saving services such as food assistance, emergency cash and vouchers, and ready-to-use therapeutic food used for emergency feeding of acutely malnourished children, as well as complementary water and sanitation and health interventions that support food security and nutrition outcomes. Food assistance, including nutritional interventions, is a key component of Canada’s humanitarian assistance. In fiscal year 2021/2022, Global Affairs Canada’s humanitarian assistance totaled $1.013 billion. Canada provides longer-term development assistance to address the root causes of hunger and build resilience in global agriculture and food systems for the poorest and most vulnerable. In 2021/2022, Global Affairs Canada disbursed $600 million to support projects that address vulnerabilities in food systems, including agriculture. This included $100 million to support small and medium-sized agri-food enterprise growth in Africa through the African Development Bank to increase food security.In 2021/2022 Global Affairs Canada’s international assistance (both in humanitarian and longer-term development) to Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Yemen, Afghanistan, Syria, the Sudan, Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Zimbabwe, Haiti, Burkina Faso, and Yemen, totaled almost $1.2 billion, including $187 million to Afghanistan and $181 million to Ethiopia.In line with international recommendations and best practices, Canada’s international food assistance is provided through financial contributions in lieu of food donations. Canada’s humanitarian partners purchase food and other assistance through independent and competitive procurement processes. Canada encourages its partners to increasingly source locally when possible. This approach can boost local economies and business development, while enhancing the food security and livelihoods of local farmers, including smallholders. This is also more responsive to those in need, and is often more cost and time effective than providing food.
Humanitarian assistance and workersTrade surplusWheat and wheat growing
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01087441-01087 (Justice)RichardBragdonTobique—MactaquacConservativeNBJanuary 31, 2023March 20, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report was tabled in Parliament on February 15, 2023. The Government of Canada is reviewing the final report and will table a Government Response, as required, in the coming months.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 13, 2023441-01852441-01852 (Foreign affairs)BradRedekoppSaskatoon WestConservativeSKOctober 30, 2023December 13, 2023November 4, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Falun Gong is a traditional Chinese spiritual discipline which consists of meditation exercise and moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance;In July 1999, the Chinese Communist Party launched an intensive, nationwide persecution campaign to eradicate Falun Gong. Hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners have been detained in forced labour camps, brainwashing centres and prisons, where torture and abuse are routine and thousands died as a result;Canadian lawyer David Matas and former Canadian Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific David Kilgour conducted an investigation in 2006 and concluded that the Chinese regime and its agencies throughout China have put to death a large number, in tens of thousands, of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience. Their vital organs were seized involuntarily for sale at high price;The Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) has got about 1.5 million petition signatures from over 50 countries and presented to United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights calling for immediate action to end the unethical practice of forced organ harvesting in China and calls for an end of the persecution of Falun Gong; andThe European Parliament passed a resolution condemning the organ harvesting abuses in China and calls on the Government of China to end immediately the practice of harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience.Therefore we, the undersigned, request the Canadian parliament and government to:A) Pass a resolution to establish measures to stop the Chinese Communist regime's crime of systematically murdering Falun Gong practitioners for their organs;B) Amend Canadian legislations to combat forced organ harvesting; andC) Publicly call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong in China.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, including Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.On December 14, 2022, Bill S-223 regarding organ harvesting and trafficking, which parliamentarians have linked to Uyghurs and Falun Dafa practitioners in China, was adopted unanimously at third reading in the House of Commons by a vote of 324-0. Bill S-223 then received Royal Assent the following day. Bill S-223 makes it a criminal offence for a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident to go abroad to receive an organ taken from someone who did not give informed consent to the removal of the organ. Canada joins jurisdictions such as the UK, Italy, Israel, Belgium, Norway, Spain, and South Korea and Taiwan that have passed legislation to combat forced organ harvesting, organ transplant tourism, and organ trafficking.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.Furthermore, Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits, public statements, representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, interventions and advocacy by its diplomatic missions, and outreach to civil society.  The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. This includes regular meetings with Canadian civil society organizations focused on the situation of human rights in China.The Government’s newly released Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) also directly outlines Canada’s approach to China. China’s rise as a global actor is reshaping the strategic outlook of every state in the region, including Canada. The third pillar of the IPS specifically invests in people, development, and the defense of human rights in the Indo-Pacific region. Canada will never apologize for pursuing its national interests, which includes upholding global rules that govern human rights.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00944441-00944 (Foreign affairs)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBDecember 8, 2022January 30, 2023November 4, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Falun Gong is a traditional Chinese spiritual discipline which consists of meditation exercise and moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance;In July 1999, the Chinese Communist Party launched an intensive, nationwide persecution campaign to eradicate Falun Gong. Hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners have been detained in forced labour camps, brainwashing centres and prisons, where torture and abuse are routine and thousands died as a result;Canadian lawyer David Matas and former Canadian Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific David Kilgour conducted an investigation in 2006 and concluded that the Chinese regime and its agencies throughout China have put to death a large number, in tens of thousands, of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience. Their vital organs were seized involuntarily for sale at high price;The Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) has got about 1.5 million petition signatures from over 50 countries and presented to United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights calling for immediate action to end the unethical practice of forced organ harvesting in China and calls for an end of the persecution of Falun Gong; andThe European Parliament passed a resolution condemning the organ harvesting abuses in China and calls on the Government of China to end immediately the practice of harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience.Therefore we, the undersigned, request the Canadian parliament and government to:A) Pass a resolution to establish measures to stop the Chinese Communist regime's crime of systematically murdering Falun Gong practitioners for their organs;B) Amend Canadian legislations to combat forced organ harvesting; andC) Publicly call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong in China.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits, public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, interventions and advocacy by its diplomatic missions, and outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on November 21, 2022.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities.On December 14, 2022, Bill S-223 regarding organ harvesting and trafficking, which parliamentarians have linked to Uyghurs and Falun Dafa practitioners in China, was adopted unanimously at third reading in the House of Commons by a vote of 324-0. Bill S-223 then received Royal Assent the following day. Bill S-223 will make it a criminal offence for a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident to go abroad to receive an organ taken from someone who did not give informed consent to the removal of the organ. Canada joins jurisdictions such as the UK, Italy, Israel, Belgium, Norway, Spain, and South Korea and Taiwan that have passed legislation to combat forced organ harvesting, organ transplant tourism, and organ trafficking.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The Government’s newly released Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) also directly outlines Canada’s approach to China. China’s rise as a global actor is reshaping the strategic outlook of every state in the region, including Canada. The third pillar of the IPS specifically invests in people, development, and the defense of human rights in the Indo Pacific region. Canada will never apologize for pursuing its national interests, which includes upholding global rules that govern human rights.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 16, 2023441-01423441-01423 (Justice)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBMay 3, 2023June 16, 2023December 12, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • It is well established that the risk of violence against women increases when they are pregnant;
  • Currently, the injury or death of preborn children as victims of crime are not considered aggravating circumstances for sentencing purposes in the Criminal Code of Canada;
  • Canada has no abortion law. This legal void is so extreme that we don't even recognize preborn children as victims of violent crimes; and
  • Justice requires that an attacker who abuses a pregnant woman and her preborn child be sentenced accordingly. The sentence should match the crime.
We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to legislate the abuse of a pregnant woman and/or the infliction of harm on a preborn child as aggravating circumstances for sentencing purposes in the Criminal Code.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government will always defend a woman's right to choose. Women, and women alone, should decide what happens to their bodies. Private Member’s Bill C-311, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (violence against pregnant women), which proposes aggravating factors that would apply to sentencing cases involving pregnant victims, is being used as a stepping stone toward opening the abortion debate in Canada. The sponsor of this legislation has specifically noted she is trying to fill a so-called void on abortion law in Canada. Canadian women fought for decades to ensure they have access to abortion services here in Canada and our Government will prevent the right to choose from being undermined in any way. Any attempts to introduce abortion into the Criminal Code will be vigorously opposed by our Government.Gender-based violence, including intimate partner violence, has no place in Canada and our Government has made it a priority to end it in all its forms. Committing an offence against a pregnant victim is already an aggravating factor for sentencing purposes at common law.The Criminal Code’s sentencing provisions require offenders to receive sentences that are proportionate to the gravity of the offence and to their degree of responsibility, taking into account aggravating factors, including evidence that the offender abused their intimate partner or a member of the victim’s or the offender’s family (paragraph 718.2(a)(ii)), and evidence that the offence had a significant impact on the victim, considering their age and other personal circumstances, including their health and financial situation, which includes consideration of a victim’s pregnancy (subparagraph 718.2(a)(iii.1)).Bill C-311 would actually make pregnant women less safe by narrowing the circumstances in which existing aggravating factors that protect pregnant victims apply. Specifically, the Bill’s first proposed aggravating factor would only apply where there is evidence that the offender knew of the victim’s pregnancy. This could unintentionally result in sentencing courts refusing to treat a victim’s pregnancy as an aggravating factor in cases where there is no such evidence.The legislation is inconsistent with its stated purpose and we have concerns that it is yet another backdoor attempt to re-open the abortion debate in Canada, which should remain firmly closed.
Fetus and embryoSentencingVictims of crimeViolence against women
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 14, 2023441-01397441-01397 (Justice)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBMay 1, 2023June 14, 2023December 12, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • It is well established that the risk of violence against women increases when they are pregnant;
  • Currently, the injury or death of preborn children as victims of crime are not considered aggravating circumstances for sentencing purposes in the Criminal Code of Canada;
  • Canada has no abortion law. This legal void is so extreme that we don't even recognize preborn children as victims of violent crimes; and
  • Justice requires that an attacker who abuses a pregnant woman and her preborn child be sentenced accordingly. The sentence should match the crime.
We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to legislate the abuse of a pregnant woman and/or the infliction of harm on a preborn child as aggravating circumstances for sentencing purposes in the Criminal Code.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government will always defend a woman's right to choose. Women, and women alone, should decide what happens to their bodies. Private Member’s Bill C-311, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (violence against pregnant women), which proposes aggravating factors that would apply to sentencing cases involving pregnant victims, is being used as a stepping stone toward opening the abortion debate in Canada. The sponsor of this legislation has specifically noted she is trying to fill a so-called void on abortion law in Canada. Canadian women fought for decades to ensure they have access to abortion services here in Canada and our Government will prevent the right to choose from being undermined in any way. Any attempts to introduce abortion into the Criminal Code will be vigorously opposed by our Government.Gender-based violence, including intimate partner violence, has no place in Canada and our Government has made it a priority to end it in all its forms. Committing an offence against a pregnant victim is already an aggravating factor for sentencing purposes at common law.The Criminal Code’s sentencing provisions require offenders to receive sentences that are proportionate to the gravity of the offence and to their degree of responsibility, taking into account aggravating factors, including evidence that the offender abused their intimate partner or a member of the victim’s or the offender’s family (paragraph 718.2(a)(ii)), and evidence that the offence had a significant impact on the victim, considering their age and other personal circumstances, including their health and financial situation, which includes consideration of a victim’s pregnancy (subparagraph 718.2(a)(iii.1)).Bill C-311 would actually make pregnant women less safe by narrowing the circumstances in which existing aggravating factors that protect pregnant victims apply. Specifically, the Bill’s first proposed aggravating factor would only apply where there is evidence that the offender knew of the victim’s pregnancy. This could unintentionally result in sentencing courts refusing to treat a victim’s pregnancy as an aggravating factor in cases where there is no such evidence.The legislation is inconsistent with its stated purpose and we have concerns that it is yet another backdoor attempt to re-open the abortion debate in Canada, which should remain firmly closed.
Fetus and embryoSentencingVictims of crimeViolence against women
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 14, 2023441-01398441-01398 (Justice)Hon.EdFastAbbotsfordConservativeBCMay 1, 2023June 14, 2023December 12, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • It is well established that the risk of violence against women increases when they are pregnant;
  • Currently, the injury or death of preborn children as victims of crime are not considered aggravating circumstances for sentencing purposes in the Criminal Code of Canada;
  • Canada has no abortion law. This legal void is so extreme that we don't even recognize preborn children as victims of violent crimes; and
  • Justice requires that an attacker who abuses a pregnant woman and her preborn child be sentenced accordingly. The sentence should match the crime.
We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to legislate the abuse of a pregnant woman and/or the infliction of harm on a preborn child as aggravating circumstances for sentencing purposes in the Criminal Code.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government will always defend a woman's right to choose. Women, and women alone, should decide what happens to their bodies. Private Member’s Bill C-311, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (violence against pregnant women), which proposes aggravating factors that would apply to sentencing cases involving pregnant victims, is being used as a stepping stone toward opening the abortion debate in Canada. The sponsor of this legislation has specifically noted she is trying to fill a so-called void on abortion law in Canada. Canadian women fought for decades to ensure they have access to abortion services here in Canada and our Government will prevent the right to choose from being undermined in any way. Any attempts to introduce abortion into the Criminal Code will be vigorously opposed by our Government.Gender-based violence, including intimate partner violence, has no place in Canada and our Government has made it a priority to end it in all its forms. Committing an offence against a pregnant victim is already an aggravating factor for sentencing purposes at common law.The Criminal Code’s sentencing provisions require offenders to receive sentences that are proportionate to the gravity of the offence and to their degree of responsibility, taking into account aggravating factors, including evidence that the offender abused their intimate partner or a member of the victim’s or the offender’s family (paragraph 718.2(a)(ii)), and evidence that the offence had a significant impact on the victim, considering their age and other personal circumstances, including their health and financial situation, which includes consideration of a victim’s pregnancy (subparagraph 718.2(a)(iii.1)).Bill C-311 would actually make pregnant women less safe by narrowing the circumstances in which existing aggravating factors that protect pregnant victims apply. Specifically, the Bill’s first proposed aggravating factor would only apply where there is evidence that the offender knew of the victim’s pregnancy. This could unintentionally result in sentencing courts refusing to treat a victim’s pregnancy as an aggravating factor in cases where there is no such evidence.The legislation is inconsistent with its stated purpose and we have concerns that it is yet another backdoor attempt to re-open the abortion debate in Canada, which should remain firmly closed.
Fetus and embryoSentencingVictims of crimeViolence against women
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00939441-00939 (Justice)JohnBarlowFoothillsConservativeABDecember 7, 2022January 30, 2023December 5, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs;International investigations concluded that the Chinese communist regime has been committing mass killings of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience for their organs, which are sold for profit and many to international organ tourists. Legal experts say crimes against humanity have occurred; andThere is currently Bill S-223 before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2023441-01472441-01472 (Fisheries)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 18, 2023June 20, 2023February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:A public survey done in 2011 found that 70% of British Columbians agree with the statement that, "wild Pacific salmon are as important to British Columbians as the French language is to Quebeckers"; The Fraser River sockeye run unexpectedly collapsed in 2009, with only 1 million of the expected 10 million salmon returning to spawn; This collapse prompted the Government of Canada to launch a comprehensive Federal Commission of Inquiry, headed by the Honourable Bruce Cohen and released in 2012, to investigate the cause of this catastrophic decline; Among the 75 recommendations stemming from Justice Cohen's inquiry were:
  • The Government of Canada should remove from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans mandate the promotion of salmon farming as an industry and farmed salmon as a product,
  • The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should explicitly consider proximity to migrating Fraser River sockeye when siting salmon farms, should consider relocating existing salmon farms that are too close to existing salmon runs, and should consider prohibiting net-pen salmon farming altogether, especially in the Discovery Islands,
  • Department of Fisheries and Oceans should encourage British Columbia to require users of pesticides in forestry and agriculture to record, and report annually to the province, the areas where pesticides were applied and the amounts used, and
  • To improve future sustainability of the Fraser River sockeye, the Government of Canada should champion, within Canada and internationally, reasonable steps to address the causes of warming waters and climate change; and
Years later, the recommendations made by Justice Cohen in the Inquiry have yet to be implemented. THEREFORE, YOUR PETITIONERS call upon the House of Commons to act on the precautionary principle and immediately implement all of the 75 recommendations made by Justice Cohen to save our salmon.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike KellowayThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of the Cohen Commission’s recommendations and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), along with Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the Province of British Columbia, have now taken actions to address all 75 of the recommendations.Many of the Cohen recommendations are broad reaching, and consequently, acting on many of the recommendations is an ongoing task. Ongoing work on many of the Cohen recommendations continues, particularly across several key areas, such as salmon stock assessment, health status assessment, habitat protection and restoration, precautionary approach to salmon aquaculture, and fisheries management.Commitment to ongoing action is reflected in the Wild Salmon Policy 2018-2022 Implementation Plan which outlines specific activities and approaches led by DFO over the last five years towards restoring and maintaining healthy and diverse Pacific salmon populations and their habitats. A five-year report of the Implementation Plan will be published in 2023.Please see the 2018 Cohen Response Status Update Report and Annex (http://www.dfo- mpo.gc.ca/cohen/report-rapport-2018-eng.htm) for more detail on DFO’s actions to date in response to the Cohen Commission recommendations and the Wild Salmon Policy 2018-2022 Implementation Plan (https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/salmon-saumon/wsp-pss/ip-pmo/index-eng.html). Additionally, the third Wild Salmon Policy Annual Report was released on February 4, 2022 (https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/salmon-saumon/wsp-pss/annual-annuel/2020-2021-eng.html).
Cohen CommissionFisheries policyFisheries stocksFraser RiverPacific fisheriesSockeye salmon
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 1, 2023441-01302441-01302 (Natural resources and energy)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCApril 18, 2023June 1, 2023February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS:The advent of climate-change makes reducing energy consumption a necessity;17% of all energy consumed in Canada is used to power homes;Most of this consumption is waste resulting from inefficient appliances, home design, and insulation; andIt is cheaper to build an energy-efficient home than it is to retrofit one that is not.THEREFORE, YOUR PETITIONERS call upon the Government of Canada to work with the provinces and territories to develop a new national building code that reduces overall energy demand to 15% of what current structures use.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Our homes and buildings are where we live, work, study and gather. They are important to our well-being, our community, and a strong economy. However, the impacts of global warming demands that Canada take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across all sectors of the economy, including from our built environment. In response to the climate crisis, the Government of Canada has committed to reducing Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions to 40 to 45% below 2005 levels by 2030 and to reaching net-zero by 2050.Canada’s buildings sector currently represents the third-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the country. Prioritizing de-carbonization of this sector, i.e. reducing or ending emissions into the atmosphere will be key to reaching net-zero. As announced in the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, Natural Resources Canada is working with provinces, territories, municipalities and Indigenous governments, industry and other stakeholders to develop the Canada Green Buildings Strategy. This Strategy will chart a path towards a coordinated transformation of the building sector, while also being mindful of the specific requirements of each region. Work is underway to ensure that regional approaches are developed, allowing energy efficiency to become an integral part of the path to a net-zero buildings sector. Reducing energy demand through better built homes, and more efficient equipment will be key to the success of the Strategy.The government has developed Canada’s Energy Efficiency Act (Act) and Energy Efficiency Regulations (the Regulations) with a focus on home energy equipment. Since 1995, the federal government has updated and amended this set of well-defined requirements and standards regarding energy-using home appliances and equipment. These amendments have saved over 331 petajoules of energy, and in 2020 avoided over 43 Mt of greenhouse gas emissions. The most recent amendment to the regulations was published in December 2022 and will strengthen the requirements and testing standards for existing and new products, including air conditioners, heat pumps, water heaters, lights, and electric motors.Improving the quality and efficiency of our homes is guided by the National Model Building and Energy Codes. The federal government works collaboratively with provinces and territories, as well as municipalities, to develop and update model codes that will make new homes and buildings safer and more energy efficient, while responding to climate change.The most recent version of the National Model Building Codes was published in March of 2022. This new version includes energy performance tiers leading to net-zero energy ready. Net-zero energy-ready means a building is so energy efficient that it can easily supply its own needs with renewable energy. This version of the code is a pathway to make all new buildings consistent with national “net zero” policy objectives.Provinces and territories are responsible for adopting or adapting building codes to respond to the unique conditions or circumstances in their jurisdiction. Announced in Budget 2022, the federal government committed $100 million over five years to accelerate the adoption of the highest tiers of the national building codes. The Codes Acceleration Fund is designed to fund actions by provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous governments and stakeholders to enable adoption of and compliance with the higher performance tiers set out in the National Model Building Codes.Through these measures, Canada is leading efforts towards improved energy efficiency in the residential sector and the construction of better built, more efficient homes. Future federal, provincial, territorial and municipal actions will be outlined in the forthcoming Canada Green Buildings Strategy.
Building codeEnergy conservation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01919441-01919 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 9, 2023December 12, 2023March 2, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is a very important issue, and the Government is currently developing its approach to protecting children to ensure they can engage safely online.As stated in the 2021 mandate letters to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and the Minister of Justice, the Government is committed to developing and introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content to protect Canadians, and hold online platforms accountable for the content they host. The Government is working hard to meet these commitments and aims to introduce legislation as soon as possible. The Government has conducted extensive consultations with experts, citizens, civil society, and other stakeholders to this end. It has heard from a diverse set of views and intends to draw on those insights when drafting legislation. It has heard a strong consensus for protecting children and youth from harm online– and that this needs to be balanced against other priorities, like protections for freedom of expression and privacy rights. The Government has also heard support for a risk-based approach to online safety; the need to hold online platforms accountable to a standard for responsible action; the need for more transparency; and the need for better tools to empower users on these platforms. Finally, it has heard that there is a need to confront child sexual abuse material content, and to mitigate the risks associated with exposing children and youth to such content.                                                                                                                                                                               The Government has also been looking at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.Lessons learned from other jurisdictions as well as the advice received from each stream of engagement are contributing to the development online safety legislation in Canada. Summaries for consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.html Overall, the Government is committed to putting in place a legislative and regulatory framework that will hold large online platforms accountable for protecting their users, including children and youth, from the risk of exposure to a range of harmful content. People in Canada, especially children and youth, deserve safer and more inclusive online experiences.   
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 19, 2023441-01167441-01167 (Transportation)DonDaviesVancouver KingswayNDPBCMarch 6, 2023April 19, 2023February 8, 2023Petition to the Minister of TransportWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, residents of the Province of British Columbia and electors of ridings found in the Lower Fraser River, draw the attention of the Minister of Transport to the following:Whereas:
  • 1. Canada has signed the 2030 Nature Compact committing to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. Including to "collaborative effort between consumer and producer countries to advance global and regional sustainable supply chains..." and the Convention for the Protection of Migratory Birds in the United States and Canada;
  • 2. The Fraser Delta is recognized as a Ramsar Wetland of international importance, a Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network Site and part of the Southwest BC Priority Area within the Pan-Canadian Framework for Species at Risk;
  • 3. Researchers have published peer reviewed studies warning of extensive habitat loss and risk of ecological collapse on the Fraser River Delta and scientist have published an open letter stating; "If the recovery of Canada's endangered and iconic wildlife is a priority for the government of Canada, as stated, then it must reject the proposed Terminal 2 project";
  • 4. The BC Great Blue Heron Society has petitioned the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development to investigate the lethal impacts of transmission lines on birds in the globally important bird habitat around the Roberts Bank Superport;
  • 5. Environment and Climate Change Canada experts have warned of unmitigable and irreversible species-level risk to Western Sandpipers and shorebirds more generally should the Roberts Bank Terminal 2 project proceed as designed; and
  • 6. The Salish Sea Indigenous Guardians Association has written the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada requesting the implementation of a Regional Assessment that includes both the proposed Roberts Bank Terminal 2 and DeltaPort 4 projects.
Therefore, your petitioners call upon the Minister of Transport to instruct the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority to halt any work on the proposed Roberts Bank Terminal 2 project until a Regional Assessment of the cumulative impacts of proposed transportation infrastructure projects on the Fraser Delta is conducted and results reported to the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development highlighting alternative options for the import and export of containers on Canada's west coast that best align with Canada's commitments to enabling sustainable supply chains in support of efforts to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraCanada’s Port Authorities, including the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, are federally incorporated and autonomous corporations that operate at arm’s length from the Government of Canada. The Port Authority is responsible for administering, managing and operating federal assets pursuant to the Canada Marine Act, and its independent board of directors is responsible for decisions regarding investments in port infrastructure and the day-to-day operations at the Port of Vancouver. Under the Canada Marine Act, the Minister of Transport does not have directive power over port development projects such as Roberts Bank Terminal 2.Such projects are subject to a range of federal laws and regulations, including in respect of environmental impacts. Transport Canada participated in the environmental assessment of the Roberts Bank Terminal 2 project by the Review Panel, providing expertise on topics related to the Department's mandate such as Canada’s marine safety and security system, west coast trade and national supply chains. The environmental assessment process, led by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, for the Roberts Bank Terminal 2 project is ongoing. 
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Steven GuilbeaultThe Roberts Bank Terminal 2 Project (the Project) is subject to an environmental assessment under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012). The assessment was conducted by an independent expert Review Panel (the Panel). The Panel completed its review of the Project and issued its report on March 27, 2020.As part of its review, the Panel considered the potential environmental effects of the Project including how marine shipping would impact the area, as well as potential effects on migratory birds, Southern Resident Killer Whales and salmon, and cumulative effects that are likely to result from the Project. Furthermore, the Panel reviewed the Project’s potential economic, social and health effects.On August 24, 2020, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change (the Minister) requested that the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority provide additional information including on fish and fish habitat, potential effects on the Southern Resident Killer Whale, salinity relating to biofilm and Western Sandpiper, as well as potential effects on Indigenous communities.On June 21, 2022, the Salish Sea Indigenous Guardians Association requested the conduct of a regional assessment in the Salish Sea under the Impact Assessment Act (the IAA). As required under the IAA and its regulations, the Minister replied to the request on September 20, 2022. It was determined that a regional assessment would not be conducted at this time.In response to the Salish Sea Indigenous Guardians Association, the Minister highlighted that existing and planned programs and initiatives are in place to address the issues raised in the regional assessment request including to consider and address potential and realized effects (including cumulative effects) associated with development in the Salish Sea. This determination will be confirmed in the analysis to support the government response to the recommendations provided in the environmental assessment report of the Review Panel for the proposed Roberts Bank Terminal 2 Project.The Minister appreciates the concerns raised in this petition with respect to the Project and all information will be considered when making decisions under CEAA 2012. The legislative time limit for a decision on the Project is April 23, 2023.
Distribution and service industriesTransportation infrastructureVancouver Fraser Port Authority
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01242441-01242 (Justice)LenWebberCalgary ConfederationConservativeABMarch 30, 2023May 15, 2023March 20, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada from the Province of Alberta, city of Calgary and British Columbia, cities of Victoria and White Rock.We, the undersigned, hereby request that a law is enacted to prevent individuals who have a history of sexually inappropriate behaviours from residing in rooms near vulnerable individuals living in care homes in Canada.We draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:
  • On April 16, 2020 Rita was sexually assaulted in her bed at a care home in Calgary, Alberta by another resident who had a longstanding history of sexual behaviours directed at female co-residents;
  • Rita is a vulnerable person who has advanced Alzheimer's disease with limited movement of her arms and legs and no ability to use the call bell to call for help; and
  • Protection for Persons in Care advised the family of Rita that the assailant resident had a history of sexual aggression in his chart and he had been found in the beds of two other women residents on January 9, 2020 and January 22, 2020 previous to Rita's assault.
Therefore your petitioners request the House of Commons enact a law to prevent individuals who have a history of sexually inappropriate behaviours from residing in rooms near vulnerable individuals living in care homes in Canada.
Response by the Minister of SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Darren FisherEvery senior in Canada deserves to live in dignity, safety and comfort, regardless of where they live, and the Government of Canada is committed to doing more to support seniors across the country. On January 31, 2023, we welcomed the release of two independent LTC standards from CSA Group and the Health Standards Organization (HSO) that was shaped by the needs and diverse perspectives of thousands of Canadians across the country, including LTC residents, family members, caregivers, and health partners. These standards are an important step in helping to ensure quality care for seniors and will raise the bar for safe and respectful care in LTC homes across Canada.The Criminal Code currently protects seniors against abuse and neglect through numerous offences of general application.It contains a comprehensive set of offences prohibiting various forms of assault, including threats of harm and sexual assault, as well as negligence based offences that prohibit failing to provide necessary care to seniors or providing necessary care in a significantly deficient manner.In addition to the Criminal Code, provinces and territories, including Alberta, each have legislation that address the health, well-being and safety of residents of long-term care homes.The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and the Minister of Seniors’ 2021 Mandate Letters contain three commitments related to elder abuse:
  1. finalizing the national definition of elder abuse;
  2. investing in better data collection;
  3. establishing new offences penalties in the Criminal Code related to elder abuse.
The private member’s Bill C-295, tabled by the Honourable MP of the constituency of Vancouver Centre, was recently referred to the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights for study. This Bill aims to protect vulnerable adults by amending the Criminal Code to create an offence for long-term care facilities, their owners and their managers to fail to provide the necessaries of life to residents of the facilities.We thank MP of the constituency of Calgary for his work and advocacy on this issue.
Long-term careSexual assaultVulnerable persons
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01507441-01507 (Justice)PhilipLawrenceNorthumberland—Peterborough SouthConservativeONJune 5, 2023July 19, 2023March 21, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01267441-01267 (Justice)RandyHobackPrince AlbertConservativeSKMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023March 20, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA:Whereas: There are serious concerns regarding the federal government's medical assistance in dying (MAID) legislation;The heads of Psychiatry of all of Canada's 17 medical schools have called for a delay to this legislation; andThe federal government has failed to live up to its promise to fund a Canada Mental Health Transfer, leaving Canadians struggling with mental illness behind.Therefore: We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to delay its expansion of medial assistance in dying (MAID).
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam Van KoeverdenMedical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal issue. The Government of Canada recognizes and respects the diverse views on whether MAID should be permitted for persons suffering solely from a mental illness. The safety and security of the most vulnerable Canadians remains at the forefront of our actions as we take a careful and considered approach on the implementation of MAID for persons living with a mental disorder.On March 9, 2023, through the passing of Bill C-39, the Government extended the temporary exclusion of eligibility for MAID for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness until March 17, 2024. This extension will allow more time for:
  • Consideration of any recommendations arising from the Special Joint Committee on MAID’s final report, tabled in February 2023, alongside the recommendations of the Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness; and,
  • Dissemination and uptake of key resources, such as the Model MAID Practice Standard (released March 27, 2023) and a nationally accredited MAID curriculum, by the medical, nursing, and health provider communities.
We believe that a one-year extension, until March 17, 2024, will provide sufficient time to ensure health system readiness, to disseminate and promote uptake of key resources by the medical and nursing communities, and to fully consider the recommendations in the Special Joint Committee on MAID’s final report. It is imperative that MAID assessors and providers be ready to assess requests for MAID for persons suffering solely from a mental illness in a safe and consistent manner across Canada by the time the extension is over.Health Canada, provinces and territories, and other stakeholders have already made significant progress to prepare for eligibility for MAID for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness.On March 27, 2023, a Task Group of experts convened by Health Canada (chaired by Dr. Mona Gupta, former Chair of the Expert Panel) released a Model Practice Standard for MAID. The Practice Standard will help clinicians align their practice with clear guidance and will assist regulators to ensure the protection of the public in the context of more complex cases. Ultimately, this will help ensure MAID practice in Canada operates in a consistent and safe manner across the country.In addition, the Canadian Association of MAID Assessors and Providers is developing and implementing an accredited Canadian MAID curriculum to support clinician education and training, and to address various topics related to the assessment and provision of MAID, including mental disorders and other complex chronic conditions. The curriculum will consist of seven modules. A rolling launch of modules will begin in the late summer of 2023, including a module on MAID and Mental Disorders, with the aim for all modules to be available by the end of 2023.The Model MAID Practice Standard and its supporting documents, along with the MAID training curriculum, will provide valuable resources for regulators and practitioners in interpreting and applying the legislative framework safely in different clinical situations.Supporting the mental health and well-being of Canadians is a priority for the Government of Canada.Through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, older adults, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Black and other racialized Canadians. The Government is also providing $50 million to support projects that address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma in health care workers, front-line and other essential workers and others affected by the pandemic.Health Canada invested $130 million from 2020-22 in Wellness Together Canada, an online mental health and substance use support portal, and received $140 million in Budget 2022 to support the portal for two more years beginning in 2022-23. Launched in April 2020, Wellness Together Canada provides free and confidential online mental health and substance use supports accessible 24/7 to individuals across Canada in both official languages.Through the Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is investing $4.9 million annually in community based mental health promotion projects that focus on reducing systemic barriers. The MHP-IF encourages mental health and well-being during the early years of life by promoting protective factors and addressing the underlying determinants of mental health and health equity for children, youth, young adults, and their caregivers.Budget 2023 confirmed the Government’s commitment to invest close to $200 billion over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to improve health care for Canadians, including $25 billion to Provinces and Territories (PTs) via tailored bilateral agreements which will focus on four key priorities, including improving access to mental health and substance use services and the integration of these services in community family health services.   This investment will build on the Budget 2017 investments, which include $2.4 billion from 2023-24 to 2026-27 still available to PTs for mental health and addictions services.Budget 2023 committed $158.4 million over three years to support the implementation and operation of 988. The introduction of 988 will provide people across Canada with easy-to-remember access to immediate and safe support for suicide prevention and emotional distress. The creation of the 988 service in Canada builds on existing investments received through Budget 2019 for the Pan-Canadian Suicide Prevention Service, where PHAC received $25 million over five years, with $4.2 million per year ongoing. With this funding, the Centre for Addition and Mental Health (CAMH) currently operates Talk Suicide Canada. Talk Suicide Canada provides people across Canada with suicide prevention crisis support from trained responders via phone (24/7) at 1-833-456-4566 and text (evenings) to 45645. Residents of Québec can also call 1-866-277-3553, text 535353 or visit suicide.ca for support by text and online chat.Mental health remains a priority for the Government, and we will continue to invest in it and work with Provinces, Territories, and key stakeholders to support the needs of individuals and communities across the country, now and in the future.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2023441-01205441-01205 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCMarch 28, 2023May 11, 2023March 7, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada Whereas:
  • Canadians care deeply about the health of the ocean, and depend on a thriving ocean ecosystem;
  • In 2019, over one million cruise ship passengers travelled off British Columbia on their way to Alaska;
  • These ships generate significant amounts of pollutants that are harmful to human health, aquatic organisms and coastal ecosystems;
  • Canada's regulations under the Canada Shipping Act addressing the discharge of sewage and greywater are much less stringent than those in US Pacific coastal states;
  • Canada permits sewage to be discharged with 18 times greater fecal coliform counts than does Alaska;
  • Canada does not require that ships built before 2013 treat greywater discharges;
  • 22 of the 25 cruise ships sailing off British Columbia in 2019 were built before 2013;
  • The Salish Sea in Washington State is a no-discharge zone prohibiting the discharge of sewage in order to protect public health, water quality, and sensitive marine resources;
  • Canada has zero no-discharge zones off British Columbia;
  • Canada does not require third party independent observers on board cruise ships as is required by Alaska; and
  • Canada's less stringent regulations encourage cruise ships to discharge their waste off British Columbia.
We, the undersigned, concerned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Set standards for cruise ship sewage and greywater discharges equivalent to or stronger than those in Alaska;2. Designate no-discharge zones to stop pollution in marine protected areas, the entirety of the Salish and Great Bear Seas, and in critical habitat for threatened and endangered species; and3. Require regular independent third-party monitoring while ships are underway to ensure discharge requirements are met.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraPart 1: On April 4, 2022, the Government of Canada announced enhanced environmental measures to strengthen Canada’s existing sewage and greywater discharge requirements for cruise ships operating in Canadian waters. The measures exceed international standards set out in the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), including requiring more stringent testing to significantly lower the permitted fecal coliform count per 100 millilitres, as well as requiring greywater be treated with sewage to these same standards. These measures will be made mandatory through amendments to the Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemicals Regulations. Amendments to these regulations are ongoing to streamline the process for designating no sewage discharge zones across the country.Transport Canada is currently working to implement the enhanced environmental measures for cruise ships through an Interim Order, which will transition these measures to a mandatory regime, and come into force in alignment with the 2023 cruise season. An Interim Order has the same effect as a regulation; however, it can be brought into force faster than regulatory amendments. In implementing these measures, Transport Canada is permanently exceeding international standards set out by the International Maritime Organization. Further, these enhanced measures provide comparable protection to jurisdictions in the United States that have implemented restrictions, including Alaska, California and Washington State.By banning discharges within 3 nautical miles from shore outright, this will stop discharges near Canada's shores, especially in the Salish Sea. The enhanced environmental measures will also dissuade any further discharges when entering Canadian waters, which was identified as an issue on the West Coast in recent years.Part 2: Some vessels require low levels of discharges of substances arising from normal operations so they can safely pass through Canadian waters. The discharge of these substances that arise from normal operations are in accordance with federal regulations under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, including the Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemical RegulationsAs an additional measure of protection for Canada’s oceans, on February 8, 2023, the Government of Canada unveiled its 2023 Marine Protected Area Protection Standard, which among other things, announced an intent to enhance restrictions on certain vessel discharges that occur within Marine Protected Areas, including those that are located within the Salish Sea and the Great Bear Sea. These measures are subject to further consultations with stakeholders. However, additional limitations or prohibitions are proposed for the following vessel discharges up to 12 nautical miles in existing and new Marine Protected Areas: 
  • oily engine bilge;   
  • sewage (blackwater);   
  • greywater;   
  • food waste; and   
  • scrubber washwater. 
 Voluntary measures for these substances, with the addition of garbage (including food wastes) and noxious liquid substances, will be also pursued in the Exclusive Economic Zone, 12-200 nautical miles from shore, where possible for implementation and compliance.Part 3: Transport Canada marine safety inspectors verify that all vessels, including cruise ships, comply with the requirements outlined in the Vessel, Pollution, and Dangerous Chemicals Regulations during regular formal Port State Control inspections. Inspectors implemented Transport Canada’s robust inspection regime onboard cruise ships during the 2022 season and verified the level of implementation with the enhanced environmental measures as well as compliance with existing regulatory requirements. Transport Canada will work with industry to ensure compliance with the enhanced measures for 2023 and going forward. Oversight activities will be conducted once the new measures are in place and any non-compliances will be the subject of follow-up action.The enhanced environmental measures are an important component of Transport Canada’s world class environmental regime. It is the first step towards addressing concerns raised by the Canadian public and environmental organizations with respect to vessel-sourced pollution in Canada. Moving forward, Transport Canada will continue to engage with industry and interested parties to determine how to further strengthen the marine environmental regime, where needed. This would include consideration towards the compliance and enforcement regime.      
British ColumbiaCruise shipsSewage treatment and disposalWater quality
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 15, 2023441-01908441-01908 (Consumer protection)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBNovember 7, 2023December 15, 2023April 25, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, residents of the Province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is reporting a rise in money laundering and fraud with the set-up of synthetic or false bank accounts where money is being sent from duped seniors' savings accounts and potentially going towards terrorist financing;The Government of BC estimates that $46.7 billion was laundered through the Canadian economy in 2018;FINTRAC (Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada) states requirements are not sufficient to prevent fraudsters from moving money illegally under the pretense of legitimacy through the wire transfer system in Canada;Our growing retiree population in Canada are increasingly becoming the target of fraud given they have built up wealth over a lifetime to help them support their retirement years and are vulnerable due to lack of controls and protection through the transmission of money within the Canadian banking system; andSeniors are seeing their savings built up over years removed due to the sophistication and disguised deceit and trickery foisted on them by professional fraudsters to exploit them and the current Canadian banking system.We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to undertake a serious and comprehensive review of the current transit system of Canadian citizens' money in this country with the aim of putting more stringent procedures, protocols, and safeguards in place to protect seniors in particular from losing their lifetime savings and wealth to fraud.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada is committed to a strong and comprehensive Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing (AML/ATF) Regime. The government continually reviews the Regime to ensure that it is responsive to evolving risks. Since 2019, the government has made investments of over $319.9 million and a number of legislative and regulatory changes to enhance the effectiveness of the Regime.Budget 2023 made legislative amendments to strengthen the investigative, enforcement, and information sharing tools of Canada’s AML/ATF Regime. These amendments complement the government’s Budget 2022 commitment to establish a new Canada Financial Crimes Agency to become the lead enforcement agency against financial crime.On June 6, 2023, a public consultation was launched that will examine ways to improve Canada's AML/ATF Regime, as well as examine how different orders of government can collaborate more closely. This consultation will support the parliamentary review required under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. Details of these consultations can be found here: Consultation on Strengthening Canada's Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing Regime - Canada.ca.The 2023 Fall Economic Statement proposes legislative and regulatory measures to continue strengthening Canada's AML/ATF framework, including to: address sanctions evasion; support operational effectiveness; combat trade-based financial crime and environmental crime; and expand the framework to address risks related to white-label Automatic Teller Machines and in the real estate sector.  Illicit funds laundered by criminal actors are often generated illegally through fraud, including fraud that targets seniors. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting Canadians from these types of crimes. One major way it does so is through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, which is the central repository for fraud information and intelligence in Canada, and is jointly operated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police and the Competition Bureau of Canada. As a National Police Service function, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre gathers intelligence on fraud affecting Canadians, and assists all law enforcement agencies across Canada with fraud prevention and enforcement.The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has a Senior Support Unit entirely supported by volunteers who are dedicated to reducing the impact of fraud across Canada. The Senior Support Unit is a critical component of the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, providing advice, education and reassurance to vulnerable Canadians targeted by fraudsters. The Senior Support Unit receives reports referred by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s Intake Unit, after identifying that further assistance for a senior or vulnerable individual is needed.
Banks and bankinge-SecuritySenior citizens
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01442441-01442 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONMay 11, 2023August 16, 2023April 24, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history.Firearms violence is a complex issue affecting Canadians in both urban and rural settings and implicates various types of firearms. As part of a comprehensive approach to address gun violence and strengthen gun laws in Canada, the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and, since its introduction, the Government has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.Despite a long history of handgun regulation in Canada, handgun violence continues to inflict significant damage to Canadians and communities. Handguns are the weapon of choice in most firearm-related crimes, which is why limiting the number of handguns is a critical part of the Government’s plan to protect Canadians from gun violence. In order to strengthen handgun control across Canada, Bill C-21 includes measures that would essentially cap the domestic lawful handgun market in Canada by freezing the sale, purchase, or transfer of handguns by individuals within Canada and prevent individuals from bringing newly acquired firearms into Canada. The freeze on the sale, purchase or transfer of handguns by individuals within Canada, and on the importation of newly acquired handguns into Canada, came into force by regulatory amendments pursuant to the Firearms Act on October 21, 2022.Bill C-21 puts the safety of Canadians first by recognizing that handgun use is appropriate in some situations and providing for limited exceptions from the national freeze on handguns.When Bill C-21 was introduced, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns in society, and were withdrawn to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1, 2023 took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measures to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from entering Canada were announced. In addition to proposed amendments, the government also announced its intention to re-establish the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee, and through regulations, require that manufacturers seek a Firearms Reference Table number before being allowed to sell in Canada.On May 12, 2023, the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (SECU) adopted the revised amendments to Bill C-21. The proposed measures would add a new prospective technical definition to the definition of “prohibited firearm” in the Criminal Code;  address the growing threat of illegally manufactured firearms, otherwise known as “ghost guns”; and include a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we are committed to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture.Our Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada. This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.With these initiatives, the Government is taking concrete steps to our country less vulnerable to firearms violence while being fair to responsible firearms owners and businesses.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 7, 2023441-01328441-01328 (Transportation)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBApril 24, 2023June 7, 2023April 24, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned, residents of the Province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • There is a growing number of residents in capital region of Winnipeg that would like to see a direct flight from Winnipeg to India or at the very least, from Winnipeg to India via one stopover in a country in Europe;
  • The region surrounding Winnipeg including Manitoba, Western Ontario and Eastern Saskatchewan has also seen substantial growth of people of Indian heritage;
  • Winnipeg has in the past, had international flights direct from Winnipeg to cities in Europe; and
  • The overall population in the area that is served by the Winnipeg International Airport has grown considerably over recent years and is estimated at close to 2 million people.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Immediately consider how best to encourage and support direct international flights from Winnipeg to destinations in India and or any European countries that have direct flights to cities in India like Amritsar and New Delhi; and2. Promote airlines to address the need and work with the Winnipeg International Airport and other stakeholders to make these flights become a reality.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraThe Government of Canada takes note of the campaign advocating for direct flights between Canada and Amritsar, India, and is aware of the importance of this issue for many Canadians, especially those with ties to Punjab.The Government of Canada is responsible for negotiating bilateral air transport agreements with foreign governments. These agreements govern the operation of scheduled air services and provide the legal framework within which airlines make decisions based on their own commercial priorities, actual market demand, and the operational viability of routes. This is an important point as the locations that Canadian airlines decide to serve are business decisions.The Government of Canada expanded its air transport agreement with India in 2022, and was able to remove limits on capacity (i.e., the number of flights that can be operated). Currently, Canadian air carriers can operate own-aircraft services to Bangalore (Bengaluru), Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai, while Indian air carriers can operate own-aircraft services to Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, Vancouver, and two additional points to be selected by India. While agreement was not reached on access to additional cities during the negotiations in 2022, officials from both countries remain in contact to discuss further expansion of the air transport agreement.In the meantime, when operating code-share services, which is a type of marketing arrangement, Amritsar is available to Canadian carriers. Additionally, the agreement does not preclude Indian airlines from operating direct services to/from anywhere in India, including Amritsar, to Canada.Bilateral agreements cannot be unilaterally amended, and thus far an agreement has not been reached with India with respect to access to additional cities. However, Canadian Ministers have pressed Canada’s air transport interests during meetings with their Indian counterparts. The Minister of Transport has pursued the addition of cities in Punjab in the air transport agreement on multiple occasions, including with India’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya Scindia, in May of 2022, where he sought an expanded air transport agreement that also includes direct access to Amritsar for Canadian airlines.Over the past year, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has met with her counterpart, India’s External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, on a number of occasions, which is a reflection of the countries’ strong and growing economic, cultural and people-to-people ties. The Ministers have continually taken these opportunities to reaffirm their commitment to deepening cooperation in these and all facets of the bilateral relationship.Most recently, these Ministers met on March 3, 2023, and discussed, among other things, Canada’s interests in obtaining market access for direct air services to a greater number of cities in India (including in Punjab).Subsequently, on March 24, 2023, Canada’s High Commissioner to India wrote to Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, reiterating Canada’s interest in exchanging the right for Canada’s respective airlines to operate services to any point or points in the other country’s territory. The Government of Canada has not yet received a reply.The Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development has also recently spoken with her counterpart, the Indian Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, on May 8, 2023 regarding this issue. The Minister of Transport also met with Minister Goyal the same day to further press Canada’s interest in access to Punjab.With respect to services operated by European airlines, Canada’s air transport agreement with the United Kingdom and its agreement with the 27 Member States of the European Union, are very open, and permit airlines to operate from all cities in Canada to any destinations in the United Kingdom or the European Union. There are no impediments preventing Canadian, United Kingdom or European Union air carriers from serving Winnipeg. However, it is important to note that the Government of Canada does not determine which routes Canadian or foreign carriers serve as the decision is a commercial one made by airlines. It is also important to note that the rights of European airlines to serve points in India are set out in the air transport agreements between those carriers’ respective home countries and India. 
Air transportationIndiaWinnipeg
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 15, 2023441-01410441-01410 (Taxation)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 2, 2023June 15, 2023April 27, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Liberals imposed carbon tax will continue to drive up the cost of home heating for Canadians;
  • In Canada heating your home in the winter isn't a luxury - it's a necessity;
  • After eight years of this Liberal government Canadians now must decide whether to heat their home or put food on their table;
  • Never before in Canadian history have Canadians paid more in taxes than under this Liberal government; and
  • Inflation has caused massive increases to costs faced by non-profits and registered charities and further compounded by the carbon tax.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Cancel the tripling of the carbon tax on home heating;2) Ensure no new taxes on Canadians;3) Ensure that Canadians are being put first: their family, their paycheques, their home, and their future.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandSince taking office in 2015, the government's focus has been investing in the middle class, growing the economy, strengthening Canada's social safety net, and making life more affordable for Canadians. Key measures include:
  • Reversed the Conservative policy and restored the age of eligibility for Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) to 65, from 67, preventing 100,000 seniors aged 65 and 66 from plunging into severe poverty each year.
  • Increasing support for families and low-income workers through programs such as the Canada Child Benefit and the Canada Workers Benefit, which have helped lift over 1 million Canadians out of poverty since 2015.
  • A cross-Canada reduction of fees for regulated childcare of 50 percent on average, with six provinces and territories reducing childcare fees to $10-a-day or less by April 2, 2023. In Saskatchewan, this amounts to an estimated savings of up to $6,900 per child.
  • Increasing the GIS top up benefit for low-income single seniors, enhancing the GIS earnings exemption, and increasing Old Age Security for approximately 3.3 million Canadians in July 2022.
  • Reducing taxes for the middle class from 22 percent to 20.5 percent, while raising taxes on the wealthiest Canadians. 
  • Increasing the basic personal amount – i.e., the basic amount of income that Canadians can earn before paying federal income tax – to $15,000, while phasing out the benefits of the increased basic personal amount for wealthy individuals.
In addition, the Government of Canada has provided targeted inflation relief to Canadians struggling with the impacts of global inflation, which has made the cost of living a real challenge. This includes direct, tax-free payments of up to $1,300 per child over two years to eligible families to cover dental expenses for their children under 12 and a doubling of the GST credit in the fall of 2022.Furthermore, the adoption of Bill C-46 will provide the new one-time Grocery Rebate, which will provide targeted inflation relief for 11 million low- and modest-income Canadians and families who need it most, with up to an extra $467 for eligible couples with two children; up to an extra $234 for single Canadians without children; and an extra $225 for seniors, on average. The Grocery Rebate will be delivered to eligible Canadians on July 5, 2023, by direct deposit or cheque through the Canada Revenue Agency.Climate action is critical to Canada’s long-term health and economic prosperity. Pollution pricing is widely recognized as effective and the most efficient means of reducing  greenhouse gas emissions, which is why the Government of Canada has made sure that it is no longer free to pollute in Canada.The federal price on pollution is revenue neutral for the government of Canada; the direct proceeds from the federal pollution pricing system remain in the province or territory where they are collected. Put simply, every dollar collected from the pollution price is returned.In provinces where the federal fuel charge applies, 90 percent of direct proceeds are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments. Most households receive more in CAI payments than the costs they face from the federal price on pollution, with low- and middle-income households benefitting the most, on average. The other 10 percent is used to support small and medium-sized businesses and Indigenous groups. Farmers are also receiving proceeds from the price on pollution through a refundable tax credit, meaning an estimated $100M was to be returned to farmers for 2021-22 and $120M will be returned for 2022-23.This year, through quarterly payments, a family of four will receive: $1,544 in Alberta, $1,056 in Manitoba, $976 in Ontario, and $1,360 in Saskatchewan. Starting in July 2023 when federal carbon pricing begins to apply in Atlantic Canada, a family of four will receive 3 quarterly payments totaling: $984 in Newfoundland and Labrador, $744 in Nova Scotia, $720 in Price Edward Island, and $552 in New Brunswick (double payment in October). Future years will contain 4 quarterly payments.Residents of small and rural communities are entitled to a 10 percent supplement beyond the base amount.The government will continue to take action to support the middle class and make life more affordable for Canadians. 
Carbon tax
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01532441-01532 (Justice)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKJune 13, 2023July 19, 2023March 21, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01712441-01712 (Justice)RandyHobackPrince AlbertConservativeSKOctober 3, 2023November 20, 2023April 4, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA:Whereas: There are serious concerns regarding the federal government's medical assistance in dying (MAID) legislation;The heads of Psychiatry of all of Canada's 17 medical schools have called for a delay to this legislation; andThe federal government has failed to live up to its promise to fund a Canada Mental Health Transfer, leaving Canadians struggling with mental illness behind.Therefore: We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to delay its expansion of medial assistance in dying (MAID).
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandThe Government of Canada recognizes that medical assistance in dying (MAID) is a deeply personal choice and remains committed to supporting eligible individuals in having their MAID request considered in a fair, safe and consistent manner, while supporting efforts to protect those who may be vulnerable.Former Bill C-7, which received Royal Assent on March 17, 2021, included a sunset clause excluding persons with a mental illness as a sole underlying medical condition from seeking MAID until March 17, 2023. On February 2, 2023, the Government of Canada introduced legislation, Bill C-39, to extend – by a year – the exclusion of eligibility for MAID where a person's sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness, until March 17, 2024. Bill C-39 received Royal Assent on March 9, 2023, to allow time for broader dissemination of key resources and tools to support clinicians in administering MAID for complex cases, including for mental illness as a sole underlying medical condition.The Government of Canada, in collaboration with experts and provinces and territories, has supported a range of initiatives guided by recommendations from the Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness and the Special Joint Committee on MAID. This has included development of a model MAID Practice Standard, as well as an Advice for the Profession document, designed by a group of experts for use by regulatory bodies and clinicians. The Practice Standard is designed for use by regulatory bodies and clinicians in addressing complex requests for MAID, including where mental illness is involved.In addition, on September 13, 2023, the Government of Canada welcomed the release of the Canadian MAID Curriculum developed by the Canadian Association of MAID Assessors and Providers. This Curriculum is the first nationally accredited bilingual MAID education program available to licensed physicians and nurse practitioners and consists of seven modules addressing various topics related to the assessment of provision of MAID, including mental disorders and other complex chronic conditions. The goal of this program is to help achieve a safe and consistent approach to care across the country.Other activities have included:
  • regulatory amendments to the federal MAID monitoring system to enhance data collection and enrich research and analysis and reporting back to Canadians (enacted January 1, 2023, with new data to be reported in 2024);
  • funding a Knowledge Exchange Workshop (June 2023) that included over 40 MAID practitioners, as well as psychiatrists, from across Canada to discuss roles and contributions to the proper assessment and management of MAID where mental disorders are involved, and support local training related to MAID for mental disorders; and,
  • engaging with Indigenous Peoples through both Indigenous- and government-led activities.
Working to improve access to health care services, including mental health services, remains a priority for the Government of Canada.The Government of Canada is investing close to $200 billion to support provinces and territories to strengthen Canada’s universal public health system. The Government continues to work closely with provinces and territories on our shared health priorities, including:
  • access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • supported health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • access to mental health and substance use services; and,
  • modernized health systems.
These investments, on top of already significant funding, will further help provide Canadians with health care that includes access to timely, equitable and quality mental health, substance use and addictions services to support their well-being.As part of the investments, $25 billion over ten years is being provided by the Government of Canada to provinces and territories to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements. These bilateral agreements will also include the remaining years of funding from the Government’s previous investment in 2017 of $5 billion over ten years to improve access to mental health and substance use services for Canadians.The Government of Canada recognizes that provinces and territories have their own unique circumstances. As such, the bilateral agreements are intended to be flexible so that provinces and territories can address the unique needs of their populations and geography. As part of these agreements, provincial and territorial governments are asked to develop action plans that will describe how funds will be spent (incremental to existing spending) and how progress will be measured. All action plans will include a description of how funds will be used to support better access to mental health services. As there is no health without mental health, integrated provincial and territorial investments in other priority areas, including family health teams, the health workforce, and data and digital tools, will also help to meet the health and mental health needs of Canadians.In addition, through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, older adults, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, Black and other racialized Canadians. The Government is also providing $50 million to support projects that address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma in health care workers, front-line and other essential workers and others affected by the pandemic.Through the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), the Government of Canada is investing $39 million from 2019-2028 to address multiple risk and protective factors to promote mental health for children, youth, young adults, and caregivers. The MHP-IF aims to improve mental health for individuals and communities where interventions are delivered and to reduce systemic barriers for population mental health in Canada. Target populations include First Nations, Inuit, Métis, newcomers, 2SLGBTQI+, and other groups experiencing socio-economic risk factors.Budget 2023 committed $158.4 million over three years to support the implementation and operation of 988. The introduction of 988 will provide people across Canada with easy-to-remember access to immediate and safe support for suicide prevention and emotional distress. The creation of the 988 service in Canada builds on existing investments received through Budget 2019 for the Pan-Canadian Suicide Prevention Service, where PHAC received $25 million over five years, with $4.2 million per year ongoing. With this funding, the Centre for Addition and Mental Health (CAMH) currently operates Talk Suicide Canada. Talk Suicide Canada provides people across Canada with suicide prevention crisis support from trained responders via phone (24/7) at 1-833-456-4566 and text (evenings) to 45645. Residents of Québec can also call 1-866-277-3553, text 535353 or visit suicide.ca for support by text and online chat.Mental health remains a priority for the Government, and we will continue to invest in it and work with Provinces, Territories, and key stakeholders to support the needs of individuals and communities across the country, now and in the future.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01376441-01376 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023April 18, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 19, 2024441-02246441-02246 (Transportation)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBMarch 19, 2024May 15, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned, residents of the Province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • There is a growing number of residents in capital region of Winnipeg that would like to see a direct flight from Winnipeg to India or at the very least, from Winnipeg to India via one stopover in a country in Europe;
  • The region surrounding Winnipeg including Manitoba, Western Ontario and Eastern Saskatchewan has also seen substantial growth of people of Indian heritage;
  • Winnipeg has in the past, had international flights direct from Winnipeg to cities in Europe; and
  • The overall population in the area that is served by the Winnipeg International Airport has grown considerably over recent years and is estimated at close to 2 million people.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Immediately consider how best to encourage and support direct international flights from Winnipeg to destinations in India and or any European countries that have direct flights to cities in India like Amritsar and New Delhi; and2. Promote airlines to address the need and work with the Winnipeg International Airport and other stakeholders to make these flights become a reality.
Air transportationIndiaWinnipeg
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 14, 2024441-02169441-02169 (Foreign affairs)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBFebruary 14, 2024June 7, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01832441-01832 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 25, 2023December 11, 2023June 7, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and international engagement.Canada is strongly committed to working with governments, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations, to promote inclusive and accountable governance around the world. Canada is consistently a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values.Canada’s leadership in the fight against arbitrary detention demonstrates its steadfast commitment to upholding universal human rights and the rules-based international order.The Government of Canada maintains an active and open dialogue with the Turkish, Pakistani and Bahraini Governments concerning human rights, as part of Canada’s commitment to promote democracy and uphold human rights and the rule of law globally.Global Affairs Canada officials met with the Turkish families that reported of their arrest in Pakistan and Bahrain and eventual detention in Türkiye, before moving to Canada. Global Affairs Canada officials have also received a submission from these families, requesting sanctions against specific Turkish officials in relation to their previous detention in Türkiye.Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order – sanctions are a key component of this approach. We also consider the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security, combatting corruption, and promoting respect for norms and values, including human rights. Canada carefully considers the bilateral consequences that any sanction measures could have. To that end, Global Affairs Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Wherever possible, Canada coordinates closely with likeminded allies, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, to maximize the effectiveness of sanctions.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01807441-01807 (Health)MelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapConservativeBCOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023September 26, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada and the Minister of HealthWhereas: Health Canada is proposing to significantly change natural health product (NHPs) regulations; We rely on NHPS, which include basic everyday products such as supplements, toothpaste, vitamins, probiotics, and mineral SPF, as part of our proactive healthcare;If we don't act immediately, consumer prices will rise significantly, and consumer choice will decline drastically, when inflation is at an all-time high and access to healthcare is at an all-time low;Health Canada recently proposed new and significant fees to import, manufacture, and sell NHPs at the same time they are implementing new labelling laws;This is unfair, unrealistic, and so costly to industry that it will force many small to medium-sized businesses to shut down Canadian operations;The burden of these costs for those that can afford the changes will be passed down to the consumer, and these are not changes or fees Canadians can afford;Increasing fees and additional labelling does not promote safety for taking NHPs, it makes products more expensive; andIn fact, this overregulation will force consumers to seek out products online which could lead people purchasing non-compliant, unregulated NHPs from outside of Canada.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Health to work with the industry to embrace modern labelling and adjust Health Canada's proposed cost recovery rates to accurately reflect the size and scope of the industry; and that new regulatory changes should only be implemented once the Self-Care Framework is adjusted and backlogs are cleared, operations run efficiently, and there are policies and procedures in place to ensure the stable operations continue.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandHealth Canada recognizes that natural health products (NHPs) are important to Canadians to help support and maintain their health and is committed to supporting access to natural health products that are safe and of high quality.While NHPs are generally lower risk products, that does not mean they are without risk, especially if products are contaminated, or used improperly.In 2021, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development completed an audit of Health Canada’s NHP program and found both strengths and areas for improvement. Health Canada committed to undertaking a number of initiatives to improve the oversight of these products.In an effort to make natural health products safer for consumers and support Canadians in making informed choices, Health Canada recently introduced two important regulatory and legislative changes:
  • In July 2022, after extensive consultation and feedback from stakeholders, Health Canada introduced new regulatory requirements to make natural health product labels easier for Canadians to read and understand. This includes, for example, increased font size and improved colour contrast.
  • In June 2023, Parliament passed legislation enabling Health Canada to take more action if a serious risk to health is identified with a natural health product. This legislation allows Health Canada to order recalls or add warnings to labels, if necessary, which the Department could not do before.
Presently, NHPs are the only line of health products where the regulatory activities are fully funded by Canadian taxpayers.Health Canada knows that many NHP companies are small businesses and is committed to supporting them. The Department is considering measures to help alleviate the impact of fees on businesses.  This includes fee reductions of 25% to 50% and a full waiver of pre-market evaluation fees for small businesses marketing their first product.Health Canada is actively reviewing thousands of comments received on its fee proposal, including those relating to the proposed fee reductions for small businesses, as part of an open and transparent consultation process with Canadians and businesses. At this time,  Health Canada is considering how best to adjust the  proposed approach to address concerns raised prior to further engagement with stakeholders.Ultimately, this initiative is about ensuring Canadians have access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality, while supporting small businesses through this process.
Natural health products
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01745441-01745 (Health)MelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapConservativeBCOctober 6, 2023November 20, 2023September 26, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada and the Minister of HealthWhereas: Health Canada is proposing to significantly change natural health product (NHPs) regulations; We rely on NHPS, which include basic everyday products such as supplements, toothpaste, vitamins, probiotics, and mineral SPF, as part of our proactive healthcare;If we don't act immediately, consumer prices will rise significantly, and consumer choice will decline drastically, when inflation is at an all-time high and access to healthcare is at an all-time low;Health Canada recently proposed new and significant fees to import, manufacture, and sell NHPs at the same time they are implementing new labelling laws;This is unfair, unrealistic, and so costly to industry that it will force many small to medium-sized businesses to shut down Canadian operations;The burden of these costs for those that can afford the changes will be passed down to the consumer, and these are not changes or fees Canadians can afford;Increasing fees and additional labelling does not promote safety for taking NHPs, it makes products more expensive; andIn fact, this overregulation will force consumers to seek out products online which could lead people purchasing non-compliant, unregulated NHPs from outside of Canada.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Health to work with the industry to embrace modern labelling and adjust Health Canada's proposed cost recovery rates to accurately reflect the size and scope of the industry; and that new regulatory changes should only be implemented once the Self-Care Framework is adjusted and backlogs are cleared, operations run efficiently, and there are policies and procedures in place to ensure the stable operations continue.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandHealth Canada recognizes that natural health products (NHPs) are important to Canadians to help support and maintain their health and is committed to supporting access to natural health products that are safe and of high quality.While NHPs are generally lower risk products, that does not mean they are without risk, especially if products are contaminated, or used improperly.In 2021, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development completed an audit of Health Canada’s NHP program and found both strengths and areas for improvement. Health Canada committed to undertaking a number of initiatives to improve the oversight of these products.In an effort to make natural health products safer for consumers and support Canadians in making informed choices, Health Canada recently introduced two important regulatory and legislative changes:
  • In July 2022, after extensive consultation and feedback from stakeholders, Health Canada introduced new regulatory requirements to make natural health product labels easier for Canadians to read and understand. This includes, for example, increased font size and improved colour contrast.
  • In June 2023, Parliament passed legislation enabling Health Canada to take more action if a serious risk to health is identified with a natural health product. This legislation allows Health Canada to order recalls or add warnings to labels, if necessary, which the Department could not do before.
Presently, NHPs are the only line of health products where the regulatory activities are fully funded by Canadian taxpayers.Health Canada knows that many NHP companies are small businesses and is committed to supporting them. The Department is considering measures to help alleviate the impact of fees on businesses.  This includes fee reductions of 25% to 50% and a full waiver of pre-market evaluation fees for small businesses marketing their first product.Health Canada is actively reviewing thousands of comments received on its fee proposal, including those relating to the proposed fee reductions for small businesses, as part of an open and transparent consultation process with Canadians and businesses. At this time,  Health Canada is considering how best to adjust the  proposed approach to address concerns raised prior to further engagement with stakeholders.Ultimately, this initiative is about ensuring Canadians have access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality, while supporting small businesses through this process.
Natural health products
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01817441-01817 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • Women's shelters are sadly seeing increased demand;
  • The high cost of living and the housing crisis have made it harder for women and children fleeing a violent home to find a safe place to live; and
  • At a time when this Liberal government is dramatically increasing spending on bureaucracy and consultants, they are cutting $145 million of funding for women's shelters.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to restore funding for women's shelters.
Response by the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their concerns about the right to a safe and affordable place to call home. Providing a safe and secure space for persons fleeing domestic violence is a priority for our government. Launched in 2017, the National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10-year, more than $82-billion plan giving more people living in Canada a place to call home. The NHS consists of complementary programs and initiatives that aim to address needs across the housing continuum while prioritizing populations most in need, including women and their children. The federal government aims to put 33% of the strategy’s investments, with a minimum of 25%, toward serving the unique needs of women and their children.NHS programs and initiatives support the creation of shelters, such as the $13.2 billion National Housing Co-Investment Fund which aims to create 2,000 new shelter spaces and repair 2,000 shelters for survivors of family violence. As of June 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed to creating 1,241 new shelter spaces or transitional housing units available for survivors of gender-based violence, and to repair/renew a further 302 units.  The Government recognizes that Indigenous women and children face unique challenges and barriers to housing. For those who experience violence, a shelter is often a first step to rebuilding their lives and protecting them from further violence. The NHS includes programming and funding exclusively for shelters in Indigenous communities and in the North. This includes $420 million through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative to build a minimum of 38 shelters and 50 new transitional homes for Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping gender-based violence. As of June 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed $76 million toward the construction of 11 shelters and 18 transitional homes through this program.In May 2020, our government committed $44.8 million to build a total of 12 new shelters across Canada for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping family violence. These Indigenous-led shelters will provide vital refuge and culturally appropriate critical supports and services to help survivors of family violence recover from the trauma of their experiences, access support programming and create a stable environment where they can begin to regain an independent life. This is also a crucial element of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, the Government of Canada’s response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and an important contribution to the National Action Plan to end violence against Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. 
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerIn response to unprecedented challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada provided approximately $300 million in emergency funding to over 1,400 organizations such as women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and other organizations that provide critical supports and services to those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV), including intimate partner violence.Along with other temporary COVID-19 emergency measures introduced by the federal government since 2020, this measure is coming to an end.  Despite this, the Government of Canada continues to support critical services for individuals experiencing gender-based violence. Most notably, on November 9, 2022, Women and Gender Equality Canada launched a historic National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This provides an investment of $539.3 million over five years, committed in Budget 2022, which is being implemented through bilateral agreements with the provinces and territories to support their efforts to address and end gender-based violence. These agreements, along with the respective provincial/territorial implementation plans, will be posted on Women and Gender Equality Canada’s website. This historic funding builds on additional Government of Canada investments to address gender-based violence since 2021-22:  
SheltersWomen
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 4, 2023441-01783441-01783 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 19, 2023December 4, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • Women's shelters are sadly seeing increased demand;
  • The high cost of living and the housing crisis have made it harder for women and children fleeing a violent home to find a safe place to live; and
  • At a time when this Liberal government is dramatically increasing spending on bureaucracy and consultants, they are cutting $145 million of funding for women's shelters.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to restore funding for women's shelters.
Response by the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their concerns about the right to a safe and affordable place to call home. Providing a safe and secure space for persons fleeing domestic violence is a priority for our government. Launched in 2017, the National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10-year, more than $82-billion plan giving more people living in Canada a place to call home. The NHS consists of complementary programs and initiatives that aim to address needs across the housing continuum while prioritizing populations most in need, including women and their children. The federal government aims to put 33% of the strategy’s investments, with a minimum of 25%, toward serving the unique needs of women and their children.NHS programs and initiatives support the creation of shelters, such as the $13.2 billion National Housing Co-Investment Fund which aims to create 2,000 new shelter spaces and repair 2,000 shelters for survivors of family violence. As of June 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed to creating 1,241 new shelter spaces or transitional housing units available for survivors of gender-based violence, and to repair/renew a further 302 units.  The Government recognizes that Indigenous women and children face unique challenges and barriers to housing. For those who experience violence, a shelter is often a first step to rebuilding their lives and protecting them from further violence. The NHS includes programming and funding exclusively for shelters in Indigenous communities and in the North. This includes $420 million through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative to build a minimum of 38 shelters and 50 new transitional homes for Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping gender-based violence. As of June 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed $76 million toward the construction of 11 shelters and 18 transitional homes through this program.In May 2020, our government committed $44.8 million to build a total of 12 new shelters across Canada for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping family violence. These Indigenous-led shelters will provide vital refuge and culturally appropriate critical supports and services to help survivors of family violence recover from the trauma of their experiences, access support programming and create a stable environment where they can begin to regain an independent life. This is also a crucial element of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, the Government of Canada’s response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and an important contribution to the National Action Plan to end violence against Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. 
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerIn response to unprecedented challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada provided approximately $300 million in emergency funding to over 1,400 organizations such as women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and other organizations that provide critical supports and services to those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV), including intimate partner violence.Along with other temporary COVID-19 emergency measures introduced by the federal government since 2020, this measure is coming to an end.  Despite this, the Government of Canada continues to support critical services for individuals experiencing gender-based violence. Most notably, on November 9, 2022, Women and Gender Equality Canada launched a historic National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This provides an investment of $539.3 million over five years, committed in Budget 2022, which is being implemented through bilateral agreements with the provinces and territories to support their efforts to address and end gender-based violence. These agreements, along with the respective provincial/territorial implementation plans, will be posted on Women and Gender Equality Canada’s website. This historic funding builds on additional Government of Canada investments to address gender-based violence since 2021-22:  
SheltersWomen
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01886441-01886 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKNovember 6, 2023December 12, 2023October 23, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023 and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.  The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI. Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01920441-01920 (Health)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 9, 2023January 29, 2024October 30, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Liberals are threatening access to Natural Health Products through new rules that will mean higher costs and fewer products available on store shelves;
  • New so-called 'cost recovery' provisions would impose massive costs on all consumers of Natural Health Products and undermine access for Canadians who rely on these products; and
  • Provisions in the latest Liberal omnibus budget have given the government substantial new arbitrary powers around the regulation of Natural Health Products.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to reverse the changes made in the latest Liberal budget regarding Natural Health Products.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandHealth Canada recognizes that natural health products (NHPs) are important to Canadians to help support and maintain their health and is committed to supporting access to natural health products that are safe and of high quality.While NHPs are generally lower risk products, that does not mean they are without risk, especially if products are contaminated, or used improperly.In 2021, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development completed an audit of Health Canada’s NHP program and found both strengths and areas for improvement. Health Canada committed to undertaking a number of initiatives to improve the oversight of these products.In an effort to make natural health products safer for consumers and support Canadians in making informed choices, Health Canada recently introduced two important regulatory and legislative changes:
  • In July 2022, after extensive consultation and feedback from stakeholders, Health Canada introduced new regulatory requirements to make natural health product labels easier for Canadians to read and understand. This includes, for example, increased font size and improved colour contrast.
  • In June 2023,  Parliament passed legislation enabling Health Canada to take more action if a serious risk to health is identified with a natural health product. This legislation allows Health Canada to order recalls or add warnings to labels, if necessary, which the Department could not do before.
Presently, NHPs are the only line of health products where the regulatory activities are fully funded by Canadian taxpayers.Health Canada knows that many NHP companies are small businesses and is committed to supporting them. The Department is considering measures to help alleviate the impact of fees on businesses.  This includes fee reductions of 25% to 50% and a full waiver of pre-market evaluation fees for small businesses marketing their first product.Health Canada is actively reviewing thousands of comments received on its fee proposal, including those relating to the proposed fee reductions for small businesses, as part of an open and transparent consultation process with Canadians and businesses. At this time,  Health Canada is considering how best to adjust the  proposed approach to address concerns raised prior to further engagement with stakeholders.Ultimately, this initiative is about ensuring Canadians have access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality, while supporting small businesses through this process.
Natural health products
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01984441-01984 (Employment and labour)EricMelilloKenoraConservativeONDecember 7, 2023January 29, 2024November 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 26, 2024441-02209441-02209 (Social affairs and equality)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 26, 2024October 12, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Housing unaffordability and homelessness are twin national crises;
  • Financialization of housing inflates Canadian real estate prices;
  • Inflation is exacerbated by the use of Canada's housing market to launder money and evade taxes;
  • Corporations, numbered companies, and real estate investment trusts (REITS) are rapidly buying up affordable housing units and flipping them to market rate units;
  • Some government policies designed to increase housing affordability transfer tax dollars to the private sector but do not protect existing affordable housing, or create new permanent affordable housing; and
  • While some parts of Canada have rent and vacancy controls, there are no national standards to protect tenants.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Re-define affordable housing using an updated formula that better reflects the economic realities faced by millions of Canadians;
  • 2. Create regulations to control excess profiteering by corporate investors and REITs;
  • 3. Close tax evasion and money laundering loopholes and increase regulation of foreign investment in residential real estate;
  • 4. Require restrictive covenants on affordable housing units built with taxpayer subsidies to ensure that those units remain affordable;
  • 5. Create national standards to establish rent and vacancy controls;
  • 6. Create an empty home tax for residential property owners who leave units vacant;
  • 7. Encourage municipalities to create affordable housing zoning to decrease land speculation and lower barriers to development permits for affordable housing; and
  • 8. Prioritize funding for non-profit and cooperative housing.
Housing
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 4, 2023441-01778441-01778 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 19, 2023December 4, 2023October 12, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C clearly communicates that the future of humanity is at risk without “rapid and far-reaching” changes to mitigate a 1.5°C temperature rise in the next 11 years and to achieve zero emissions by 2050;
  • Canada is on course to significantly overshoot our 2030 Paris Agreement target (Auditor General's Report 2018) with oil and gas and transportation emissions continuing to rise (Government of Canada);
  • The World Health Organization has clearly stated that “climate change is the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century”; and
  • The health impacts from climate change, including lung disease, heat-related illness, spread of infectious diseases, displacement, famine, drought, and mental health impacts, are being felt in Canada and abroad and are expected to accelerate across our planet at an unprecedented rate threatening "human lives and viability of the national health systems they depend on” (Lancet Countdown 2018, Lancet Countdown Briefing for Canadian Policymakers, 2018).
We, the undersigned, Physician Mothers of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Act upon the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment “Call to Action on Climate Change and Health” report (February 5, 2019), which has clearly outlined specific measures towards zero emissions;
  • Prioritize the elimination of emissions and preservation of a healthy environment as part of every portfolio and in every decision made by our federal and provincial parties;
  • Implement a nationwide carbon pricing strategy;
  • Commit to the rapid elimination of fossil fuels and coal from our economy;
  • Commit to rapid incorporation of green energy and net-zero infrastructure across the country; and
  • Eliminate single use plastics.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe science is clear that accelerated efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, are necessary to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The economics are clear too – to build a strong, resilient economy for generations to come, Canada must harness the power of a cleaner future.The Government of Canada recognizes this reality, and since 2015 has taken significant, ambitious steps to reduce emissions, protect the environment, spur clean technologies and innovation, and help Canadians and communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.In 2016, the Government of Canada developed the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, in collaboration with provinces and territories, and with input from Indigenous peoples. Building on this national effort, the Government of Canada released its strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, in December 2020 to deepen emissions reductions across the economy, create new, well-paying jobs, make life more affordable for households, and build a better future.In 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (the Act) provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on these commitments. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Actalso holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve its national targets based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Act,Canada published the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target, including a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Measures introduced by the Government of Canada since 2015 include:
  • Bringing into force the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act ensuring that every Canadian jurisdiction has a price on carbon. The price on carbon pollution started at $20 per tonne of emissions in 2019 – and has been rising at a predictable rate of $10 per year to reach $50 in 2022. Starting in 2023, the price rose to $15 per year until it reaches $170 per tonne in 2030;
  • Meeting Canada’s G20 commitment to eliminate inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023, and committing to develop a plan to phase out public financing of the fossil fuel sector including by federal Crown corporations;
  • Accelerating the phase-out of coal-fired electricity generation, and positioning the oil and gas sector to cut pollution by working with stakeholders to implement a cap on oil and gas sector emissions;
  • Building Canada’s renewable electricity future by continuing to advance the Clean Electricity Standard to enable Canada to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035, and making significant investments to support renewable electricity and grid modernization projects;
  • Helping to reduce energy costs for homes and buildings, and boosting climate resiliency;
  • Driving progress on clean cars and trucks through investments in zero-emission vehicles charging and refueling infrastructure, and the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program;
  • Establishing the Canadian Center for Climate Services, which provides climate information and support to help Canadians consider climate change in their decisions, including health-related adaptation decisions via the collaborative climate information portal, ClimateData.ca; and,
  • Developing a climate lens to integrate climate considerations throughout Government of Canada decision-making.
Furthermore, the Government of Canada is implementing an ambitious, comprehensive, and circular economy approach to reduce plastic waste, increase the value retention and recovery of plastics, and tackle plastic pollution through a range of complementary solutions spanning the plastics lifecycle. By reducing plastic pollution and improving how plastic is made, used, and managed, the Government of Canada can strengthen sustainable economies, grow jobs, help fight climate change, and protect biodiversity and the environment.Actions such as these, as well as ongoing efforts with provinces and territories to ensure that producers are responsible for the cost of managing their plastic waste, will help address the issue of plastic pollution from single-use plastics.The Government of Canada also recognizes that a more ambitious, strategic and collaborative approach is required to adapt to the impacts of climate change including higher temperatures, variable precipitation patterns, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, severe floods, wildfires, drought, and other extreme weather events. Working with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, Indigenous peoples and other key partners and stakeholders, the federal government is implementing Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy. This Strategy has a shared vision for climate resilience and provides a blueprint for whole-of-society action to help communities and residents of Canada better adapt to and prepare for the impacts of climate change.These and other historic commitments aim to increase Canada’s climate and environmental ambition, and to help people living in Canada be more resilient to climate impacts. These commitments will benefit all Canadians, in particular those groups that are disproportionately affected by the negative effects of climate change including children, low-income communities, seniors, and Indigenous peoples.   
Canadian Association of Physicians for the EnvironmentCarbon pricingFossil fuelsGreenhouse gasesPlasticsRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2024441-02085441-02085 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 5, 2024March 20, 2024November 1, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members’ Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02029441-02029 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024November 1, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members’ Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01991441-01991 (Civil and human rights)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024November 1, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01957441-01957 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONNovember 24, 2023January 29, 2024November 9, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Loyola Community Learning Centre- Open Book Campus community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 26, 2024441-02200441-02200 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 26, 2024November 22, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01998441-01998 (Employment and labour)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas:
  • The recognition of international credentials for newcomers to Canada continues to be a challenge;
  • Only 41% of doctors with international credentials work as doctors in Canada;
  • Similarly, only 37% of nurses with international credentials work as a nurse in Canada;
  • Those who decide to pursue medical studies outside of Canada, despite being from Canada, still have difficulties getting their licenses here if they choose to come back;
  • Gatekeepers in provincial licensing bodies have unnecessary hurdles and red tape, leading to healthcare professionals being prevented from doing the work they are trained to do;
  • Canada has 53,005 nurses and doctors who could be filling shortages, but the Liberal government is failing to remove barriers to the much-needed support our provincial health care systems needs;
  • Currently, a "Red Seal" program exists that sets recognized standards across Canada for tradespeople, allowing for a shared partnership that proves a professional has the necessary skills to practice their trade; and
  • Healthcare professionals want to work in Canada, but it is just a matter of creating a system without barriers for these highly skilled professionals.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion to:create a "Blue Seal" that will make the processes, with a 60-day standard, for licensing doctors and nurses to be more streamlined in order to help fill Canada's shortages on health care professionals.
Response by the Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Persons with DisabilitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykForeign credential recognition and licensure in regulated occupations (e.g., nurses, physicians) is a provincial and territorial responsibility that is typically further delegated to regulatory authorities through legislation. Each jurisdiction is responsible for establishing education, training and licensing standards in the interest of public health and safety.The Government of Canada recognizes that skilled newcomers, including internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs), are sometimes not able to contribute to their full potential. They can face challenges obtaining employment commensurate with their education, skills and experience, due to barriers such as lack of Canadian work experience, occupation-specific language proficiency, discrimination and bias from employers, and lack of awareness of existing employment supports and other social and professional resources. The foreign credential recognition process itself can also be a barrier for the successful labour market integration of skilled newcomers, as it can be complex, lengthy, and costly and varies by occupation and jurisdiction. In the context of these challenges, many provinces and territories have introduced initiatives and legislation to improve foreign credential recognition processes and support fair registration practices.For example, on May 1, 2023, the Atlantic premiers announced the launch of the Atlantic Physician Register that allows for greater mobility of fully licensed physicians in Atlantic Canada. Previously, physicians had to submit a separate full application to each provincial college, including a registration fee, to obtain a license to practice in that province. This Registry could be expanded to allow other jurisdictions to join.National organizations are also helping to harmonize and coordinate the credential recognition process amongst the provincial and territorial regulatory bodies to make it easier for internationally educated physicians and nurses to have their credentials recognized and become licensed to practice in Canada. For example, the Medical Council of Canada and the National Nursing Assessment Services are national bodies that play a role in facilitating the foreign credential recognition process of internationally educated physicians and nurses respectively.Additionally, on October 12, 2023, Federal, Provincial and Territorial (FPT) Ministers of Health and Ministers responsible for mental health met to discuss shared priorities, including the health workforce, health data, mental health and addiction, and public health. The meeting highlight was that all levels of government are taking action and making significant investments to improve health care services in Canada. Following the meeting, Ministers released a statement reaffirming their commitment to focus attention on foreign credential recognition by reducing the time it takes for IEHPs to join the workforce, and advance labour mobility to support an agile and flexible workforce.For its part, the Government of Canada’s Foreign Credential Recognition Program supports the labour market integration of skilled newcomers by funding projects with provinces and territories, regulatory authorities and organizations that simplify and harmonize national credential recognition processes, provide loans and support services to help skilled newcomers navigate foreign credential recognition processes, and help skilled newcomers gain their first Canadian work experience in their profession or field of study.For example, the Foreign Credential Recognition Program supported the Medical Council of Canada to create the Physicians Apply portal (https://physiciansapply.ca/). The portal has streamlined the process for international medical graduates to apply for a license to practice medicine in Canada by offering a platform where international and Canadian medical students and physicians can complete and submit the application for medical registration with medical regulatory authorities, access all Medical Council of Canada examinations, use source verification services, and share their credentials and documents with registered partners. The Physicians Apply portal has so far reached over 83,000 individuals who now have accounts and can access the full range of services. The portal has made it easier for nearly 1.9 million documents to be shared in support of credential recognition and licensure for international and Canadian medical graduates.Budget 2022 provided an additional $115 million over five years, with $30 million ongoing, to expand the Foreign Credential Recognition Program, with an initial focus on supporting the integration of IEHPs into the Canadian labour market. The most recent open call for proposals ran from December 5, 2022, to January 30, 2023. The call invited eligible organizations and provincial and territorial governments to submit proposals for projects that improve Foreign Credential Recognition processes, provide Canadian work experience that is relevant to the IEHPs’ intended healthcare field of work, and/or facilitate labour mobility between jurisdictions in Canada for health care professionals. Approximately $89 million will be invested in 16 new projects which are expected to start in early 2024.
Caregivers and health care professionalsCredentialsImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01999441-01999 (Natural resources and energy)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Canadians are struggling in an unprecedented cost of living crisis;
  • This legislation aims to kill 170,000 direct Canadian jobs, will displace 450,000 direct and indirect jobs, and cause major disruptions to 2.7 million jobs across all provinces in the energy, manufacturing, construction, transportation, and agriculture sectors;
  • In Canada, the oil and gas sector is the top private sector in clean tech at 75% overall - more than all other sectors, combined, and in the development and commercialization of renewable and alternative energy and other fuels of the future;
  • The energy sector provides 10% of Canada's GDP, and pays over $26 billion in taxes to all levels of government every year, including $48 billion in 2022;
  • Natural Resource businesses, including oil and gas, are the most traded stocks and form the foundation of the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and this legislation will put Canadians' financial portfolios in jeopardy potentially risking millions of invested dollars;
  • Canada's energy self-sufficiency and security is increasingly threatened by the government's anti-energy agenda to expedite and recklessly phase out the oil and gas sectors with government-imposed mandates, penalties, policies, bans, and added costs, with no concrete roadmap on how to replace them;
  • Global oil and gas demand continues to increase, and we believe the last barrels of oil and cubic metre of natural gas used in the world should come from Canada;
  • Government-created uncertainty has already driven billions of investment, technology, and hundreds of thousands of jobs out of Canada and has already primarily and disproportionately hurt remote, rural, Indigenous and energy- and resource-based communities, provinces and regions;
  • The legislation will disproportionately impact blue collar and lower-income workers, which includes many Indigenous Canadians and visible minorities, who will face higher job disruptions and have more challenges finding new opportunities;
  • The legislation doesn't account for what and how many jobs will replace the ones their agenda will kill - or how the economic, fiscal, and technological contributions of the energy sector will be replaced in Canada, as well as affordable and accessible energy for all communities and regions, in cities and rural areas alike.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to cancel its divisive, targeted, anti-energy, anti-private sector and top down "Just Transition" central planning agenda that is neither just, fair nor equitable, and instead accelerate Canadian energy projects, infrastructure, technology, and exports, and greenlight green projects, by reducing duplicative red tape, costs, and permitting timelines, and support private-sector-led energy transformation instead of a government-forced transition.
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous low-carbon economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reduction targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the generational economic opportunities that a net zero emissions future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonization technology in the conventional energy sector.Budget 2023 makes transformative investments to build Canada’s clean economy, fight climate change, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and Canadian workers. This includes significant measures that will deliver cleaner and more affordable energy, support investment in our communities and the creation of good-paying, high-quality jobs, and ensure Canadian workers are able to produce and provide the goods and resources that Canadians and our global partners need. These investments are underpinned by a set of clear and predictable investment tax credits, low-cost strategic financing, and targeted investments and programming, where necessary, to respond to the unique needs of sectors or projects of national economic significance. Since 2016, the federal government has committed over $120 billion to clean growth and emissions reduction measures, including over $80 billion in investment tax credits.Canada’s highly skilled and educated workforce, and comparative advantages in energy, critical minerals, and clean technology are helping Canadian industries and workers to seize the enormous economic opportunities in a net-zero future. The Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero emissions future.  The interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, released in February 2023, lays out a comprehensive approach as part of Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth.This plan, drafted in consultation with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society, outlines the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, clean energy, low-carbon building products, carbon management technologies, and small modular reactors, Canada is building a prosperous net-zero future that works for Canadians in every region. This includes significant opportunities in existing energy industries that are taking action to respond to global demand by lowering their emissions and enhance their long-term competitiveness.Skills training is a critical factor in ensuring that Canadian workers can seize the economic opportunities ahead, which is why the federal government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including as it relates to sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers seize new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced funding to establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, among other things.As committed to in the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, the Government introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, in June 2023. The legislation proposes establishing a federal governance, engagement, and accountability framework to advance economic prosperity and ensure workers benefit from the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. The bill would also require the Government to:
  • establish a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide independent advice to Government on sustainable jobs measures;
  • create a Secretariat to lead the Government’s sustainable jobs approach; and
  • release a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years beginning in 2025.
These legislated mechanisms would guide and organize efforts to support workers and communities in building a net-zero economy, advancing economic prosperity across the country.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables (Regional Tables) are a key initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables are helping to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, in collaboration with Indigenous partners, and with the input of experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders.  The Regional Tables will form the basis for implementing joint strategies to leverage energy and resource opportunities to realize each region of Canada’s comparative advantage in a net-zero future.To date, the federal government has jointly launched Regional Tables across the country with British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the Northwest Territories and Yukon.The Government of Canada is working in partnership with workers, industries, and communities across Canada to take ambitious climate action while developing low-carbon industries that spur affordability, energy security, and economic prosperity in every sector and region.
C-50, An Act respecting accountability, transparency and engagement to support the creation of sustainable jobs for workers and economic growth in a net-zero economyEnergy transitionGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02028441-02028 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • Women's shelters are sadly seeing increased demand;
  • The high cost of living and the housing crisis have made it harder for women and children fleeing a violent home to find a safe place to live; and
  • At a time when this Liberal government is dramatically increasing spending on bureaucracy and consultants, they are cutting $145 million of funding for women's shelters.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to restore funding for women's shelters.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerGender-based violence is one of the most pervasive, deadly and deeply rooted human rights violation of our time. This is why the Government of Canada is taking action.The pandemic created unprecedented challenges for those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) and the organizations providing supports and services to them. While preventing and addressing GBV is a shared responsibility between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, the Government of Canada acted swiftly in 2020 to provide an initial $90 million in COVID-19 emergency funding, through Women and Gender Equality Canada, to organizations across Canada serving those experiencing GBV. A year into the pandemic, the government responded to high demand and pressing needs by more than tripling the funding support and extending the timeframe for this emergency measure through Budget 2021. Since April 2020, approximately $300 million in total funding has been committed to organizations, providing emergency funding to over 1,400 organizations including women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and other GBV organizations. As a result, more than 2 million individuals experiencing violence had a safe place to go, and access to supports across Canada. These investments served as an emergency response to the crisis above and beyond the ongoing work under the Federal Gender-Based Violence Strategy.Like other COVID-19 emergency measures introduced by the federal government since 2020, this temporary measure has come to an end. However, the Government of Canada remains committed to addressing GBV: 
  • Budget 2021 invests $601.3 million over five years in initiatives to advance towards the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This included $200 million (of the $300 million) specifically for COVID-19 emergency funding.
  • Budget 2022 invests a further $539.3 million over five years to support provinces and territories with the implementation of the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.
 On November 9, 2022, Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women launched a historic 10-year National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence –. This Plan is a concrete step in fulfilling a long-standing commitment of Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments to work together towards a Canada free of gender-based violence. The Plan is supported by an investment of $539.3 million over five years, committed in Budget 2022, to support the provinces and territories in their implementation efforts. This funding is provided to provinces and territories through bilateral agreements.As of December 2023, the Government of Canada announced agreements with all provinces and territories. These agreements, along with the respective provincial/territorial implementation plans are available on Women and Gender Equality’s website. 
Response by the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their concerns about the right to a safe and affordable place to call home.Providing a safe and secure space for persons fleeing domestic violence is a priority for the Government of Canada. The National Housing Strategy (NHS), a 10-year, more than $82 billion plan launched in 2017, is giving more people living in Canada a place to call home. The NHS consists of complementary programs and initiatives that aim to address needs across the housing continuum and prioritize populations most in need, including women and their children. The Government of Canada aims to put 33% of the strategy’s investments, with a minimum of 25%, toward serving the unique needs of women and their children.NHS programs and initiatives support the creation of shelters, such as the $13.2 billion Affordable Housing Fund, previously known as the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, which aims to create 2,000 new shelter spaces and repair 2,000 shelters for survivors of family violence. The Government of Canada has committed to create 1,388 new shelter spaces or transitional housing units available for survivors of gender-based violence, and to repair/renew a further 347 shelter spaces or transitional housing units.The Government of Canada recognizes that Indigenous women and children face unique challenges and barriers to housing. For those who experience violence, a shelter is often a first step to rebuilding their lives and protecting them from further violence. The NHS includes programming and funding exclusively for shelters in Indigenous communities and in the North.As part of the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Government of Canada announced funding of $724.1 million to develop a comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy to expand culturally relevant supports for Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people facing gender-based violence. From this funding, $420 million is allocated to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) over five years to support the construction of a minimum of 38 shelters and 50 transitional homes across the country. In addition, we have committed $44.8 million to build a total of 12 new shelters across Canada for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping family violence. To date, construction is complete for four shelters, with the remaining eight shelters expected to be completed in 2024.These Indigenous-led shelters will provide vital refuge and culturally appropriate critical supports and services to help survivors of family violence recover from the trauma of their experiences, access support programming and create a stable environment where they can begin to regain an independent life. They are also a crucial element of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, the Government of Canada’s response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and an important contribution to the National Action Plan to end violence against Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.To date, the Indigenous led Steering committees have selected 47 projects for funding (25 shelters and 22 transitional housing) and provided $195.9 million in capital for the creation of 349 units. A total of 24 projects have advanced to the point of receiving an agreement, and $27 million in funding has been advanced. The committees have conditionally approved an additional 23 projects, which may be provided final approval once complete proposals are received. Budget 2021 included an additional $315.4 million for the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) to increase support for women and children fleeing violence. The program has since shifted in scope to encompass survivors of gender-based violence consistent with the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence which the Government of Canada and provinces and territories (excluding Quebec) endorsed in November 2022.CMHC is in the process of negotiating agreements with provinces and territories to deliver and cost-match the additional federal funding for survivors of gender-based violence through the CHB. This funding will be available for provinces and territories to deliver until 2028. Each province and territory has flexibility to cost-match this funding through a housing benefit for any vulnerable population, including survivors of gender-based violence. To date, agreements for additional funding for survivors of gender-based violence through the CHB have been signed with 3 provinces and territories.  CMHC launched a Call for Proposals in November 2021 and the submission window will remain open on a continual basis until March 1, 2024. CMHC and Indigenous Services Canada work with Indigenous-led committees comprised of representatives from Indigenous organizations, subject matter experts in shelters and housing delivery, as well as people with lived experience. The Government of Canada understands that a need for urgent shelter remains and is committed to working collaboratively to support the work of the Indigenous-led committees and expediting funding for projects that are approved.
SheltersWomen
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2024441-02086441-02086 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 5, 2024March 20, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • Women's shelters are sadly seeing increased demand;
  • The high cost of living and the housing crisis have made it harder for women and children fleeing a violent home to find a safe place to live; and
  • At a time when this Liberal government is dramatically increasing spending on bureaucracy and consultants, they are cutting $145 million of funding for women's shelters.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to restore funding for women's shelters.
Response by the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their concerns about the right to a safe and affordable place to call home.Providing a safe and secure space for persons fleeing domestic violence is a priority for the Government of Canada. The National Housing Strategy (NHS), a 10-year, more than $82 billion plan launched in 2017, is giving more people living in Canada a place to call home. The NHS consists of complementary programs and initiatives that aim to address needs across the housing continuum and prioritize populations most in need, including women and their children. The Government of Canada aims to put 33% of the strategy’s investments, with a minimum of 25%, toward serving the unique needs of women and their children.NHS programs and initiatives support the creation of shelters, such as the $13.2 billion Affordable Housing Fund, previously known as the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, which aims to create 2,000 new shelter spaces and repair 2,000 shelters for survivors of family violence. The Government of Canada has committed to create 1,388 new shelter spaces or transitional housing units for survivors of gender-based violence, and to repair/renew a further 347 spaces or units.The Government of Canada recognizes that Indigenous women and children face unique challenges and barriers to housing. For those who experience violence, a shelter is often a first step to rebuilding their lives and protecting them from further violence. The NHS includes programming and funding exclusively for shelters in Indigenous communities and in the North.As part of the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Government of Canada announced funding of $724.1 million to develop a comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy to expand culturally-relevant supports for Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people facing gender-based violence. From this funding, $420 million is allocated to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) over five years to support the construction of a minimum of 38 shelters and 50 transitional homes across the country. In addition, we have committed $44.8 million to build a total of 12 new shelters across Canada for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping family violence. To date, construction is complete for four shelters, with the remaining eight shelters expected to be completed in 2024. These Indigenous-led shelters will provide vital refuge and culturally appropriate critical supports and services to help survivors of family violence recover from the trauma of their experiences, access support programming and create a stable environment where they can begin to regain an independent life. They are also a crucial element of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, the Government of Canada’s response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and an important contribution to the National Action Plan to end violence against Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.To date, the Indigenous-led Steering committees have selected 47 projects for funding (25 shelters and 22 transitional housing) and provided $195.9 million in capital for the creation of 349 units. A total of 24 projects have advanced to the point of receiving an agreement, and $27 million in funding has been advanced. The committees have conditionally approved an additional 23 projects, which may be provided final approval once complete proposals are received. Budget 2021 included an additional $315.4 million for the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) to increase support for women and children fleeing violence. The program has since shifted in scope to encompass survivors of gender-based violence consistent with the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence which the Government of Canada and provinces and territories (excluding Quebec) endorsed in November 2022.CMHC is in the process of negotiating agreements with provinces and territories to deliver and cost-match the additional federal funding for survivors of gender-based violence through the CHB. This funding will be available for provinces and territories to deliver until 2028. Each province and territory has flexibility to cost-match this funding through a housing benefit for any vulnerable population, including survivors of gender-based violence. To date, agreements for additional funding for survivors of gender-based violence through the CHB have been signed with 3 provinces and territories.  CMHC launched a Call for Proposals in November 2021, which has remained open on a continual basis until March 1, 2024. CMHC and Indigenous Services Canada work with Indigenous-led committees comprised of representatives from Indigenous organizations, subject matter experts in shelters and housing delivery, as well as people with lived experience. The Government of Canada understands that a need for urgent shelter remains and is committed to working collaboratively to support the work of the Indigenous-led committees and expediting funding for projects that are approved. 
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerGender-based violence is one of the most pervasive, deadly and deeply rooted human rights violation of our time. This is why the Government of Canada is taking action.The pandemic created unprecedented challenges for those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) and the organizations providing supports and services to them. While preventing and addressing GBV is a shared responsibility between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, the Government of Canada acted swiftly in 2020 to provide an initial $90 million in COVID-19 emergency funding, through Women and Gender Equality Canada, to organizations across Canada serving those experiencing GBV. A year into the pandemic, the government responded to high demand and pressing needs by more than tripling the funding support and extending the timeframe for this emergency measure through Budget 2021. Since April 2020, approximately $300 million in total funding has been committed to organizations, providing emergency funding to over 1,400 organizations including women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and other GBV organizations. As a result, more than 2 million individuals experiencing violence had a safe place to go, and access to supports across Canada. These investments served as an emergency response to the crisis above and beyond the ongoing work under the Federal Gender-Based Violence Strategy.Like other COVID-19 emergency measures introduced by the federal government since 2020, this temporary measure has come to an end. However, the Government of Canada remains committed to addressing GBV:
  • Budget 2021 invests $601.3 million over five years in initiatives to advance towards the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This included $200 million (of the $300 million) specifically for COVID-19 emergency funding.
  • Budget 2022 invests a further $539.3 million over five years to support provinces and territories with the implementation of the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.
On November 9, 2022, Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women launched a historic 10-year National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence –. This Plan is a concrete step in fulfilling a long-standing commitment of Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments to work together towards a Canada free of gender-based violence. The Plan is supported by an investment of $539.3 million over five years, committed in Budget 2022, to support the provinces and territories in their implementation efforts. This funding is provided to provinces and territories through bilateral agreements.As of December 2023, the Government of Canada announced agreements with all provinces and territories. These agreements, along with the respective provincial/territorial implementation plans are available on Women and Gender Equality’s website. 
SheltersWomen
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 21, 2024441-02261441-02261 (Taxation)ShelbyKramp-NeumanHastings—Lennox and AddingtonConservativeONMarch 21, 2024March 14, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament207Open for signatureMarch 26, 2024e-4891e-4891 (Foreign affairs)RohilSharmaKenHardieFleetwood—Port KellsLiberalBCMarch 26, 2024, at 4:04 p.m. (EDT)July 24, 2024, at 4:04 p.m. (EDT)Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:The disputed presidential election in Belarus in August 2020 has led to the administrative arrest, arbitrary detentions, and criminal prosecution of protestors—notably the members of Viasna, a prominent human rights organisation in Belarus that actively monitors and documents human rights violations against Belarusian political activists and provides legal and financial assistance to political prisoners;Marfa Rabkova, a member of Viasna, was detained in 2020 for numerous alleged criminal offences related to her nonviolent participation in nationwide protests. She was fined 22,400 Belarusian rubles and sentenced to 15 years in a penal colony, which was recently shortened to 14 years and 9 months in February of 2023; andMarfa Rabkova has reported numerous health complications during pre-trial prison and has repeatedly been denied adequate medical attention.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: 1. Urge the Government of Belarus to release Marfa Rabkova from prison and exonerate her from all charges; and2. Upon her release, ensure that Marfa Rabkova has a place of asylum to complete her education and continue her work as a human rights activist.BelarusPolitical prisonersRabkova, Marfa44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02095441-02095 (Taxation)KodyBloisKings—HantsLiberalNSFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024December 13, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02033441-02033 (Health)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024December 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Liberals are threatening access to Natural Health Products through new rules that will mean higher costs and fewer products available on store shelves;
  • New so-called 'cost recovery' provisions would impose massive costs on all consumers of Natural Health Products and undermine access for Canadians who rely on these products; and
  • Provisions in the latest Liberal omnibus budget have given the government substantial new arbitrary powers around the regulation of Natural Health Products.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to reverse the changes made in the latest Liberal budget regarding Natural Health Products.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Yasir NaqviHealth Canada recognizes that natural health products (NHPs) are important to Canadians to help support and maintain their health and is committed to supporting access to natural health products that are safe and of high quality.While NHPs are generally lower risk products, that does not mean they are without risk, especially if products are adulterated, or used improperly.In 2021, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development completed an audit of Health Canada’s NHP program and found both strengths and areas for improvement. Health Canada committed to undertaking a number of initiatives to improve the oversight of these products.In an effort to make the natural health product market safer for consumers and support Canadians in making informed choices, Health Canada recently introduced two important regulatory and legislative changes:
  • In July 2022, after extensive consultation with stakeholders and taking their feedback into account, Health Canada introduced new regulatory requirements to make natural health product labels easier for Canadians to read and understand. This includes, for example, increased font size and improved colour contrast.
  • In June 2023, the Government passed legislation allowing Health Canada to take more action if a serious risk to health is identified with a natural health product. This legislation allows Health Canada to order recalls or add warnings to labels, if necessary, which the Department could not do before.
Now, Health Canada is proposing fees for industry to allow the Department to create an even safer marketplace for consumers and begin to recoup a portion of the costs of services it provides to industry. Presently, NHPs are the only line of health products where the regulatory activities are fully funded by Canadian taxpayers.Health Canada knows that many NHP companies are small businesses and is committed to supporting them. The Department is considering measures to help alleviate the impact of fees on businesses.  This includes fee reductions of 25% to 50% and a full waiver of pre-market evaluation fees for small businesses marketing their first product.Health Canada is actively reviewing thousands of comments received on its fee proposal, including those relating to the proposed fee reductions for small businesses, as part of an open and transparent consultation process with Canadians and businesses. At this time, the Department is considering how best to adjust the proposed approach to address the concerns raised prior to further engagement with stakeholders.Ultimately, this initiative is not about limiting the production of NHPs or consumers’ access to them. Rather, these efforts are about making sure the products Canadians use every day are safe, and of high quality.
Natural health products
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02198441-02198 (Taxation)DaneLloydSturgeon River—ParklandConservativeABFebruary 16, 2024March 22, 2024December 13, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02139441-02139 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBFebruary 12, 2024March 22, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02096441-02096 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community. Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017. Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices. The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities. In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 15, 2024441-02172441-02172 (Justice)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBFebruary 15, 2024February 5, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Trudeau government has attempted to ban and seize the hunting rifles and shotguns of millions of Canadians;
  • The targeting of farmers and hunters does not fight crime; and
  • The Trudeau government has failed those who participate in the Canadian traditions of sport-shooting.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to stop any and all current and future bans on hunting and sport-shooting firearms.
FirearmsHunters
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02037441-02037 (Business and trade)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONJanuary 31, 2024March 18, 2024January 19, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:Bill C-57 is an important update to the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement that will assist Ukraine in rebuilding after they defeat the illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress has called on the Parliament of Canada to swiftly adopt this legislation; andMisinformation regarding Canada's carbon pricing scheme having an effect on this agreement has been widely debunked.THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons and all parliamentarians to re-affirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine by swiftly adopting the updated Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement.
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuThe Government of Canada condemns Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war is a blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and a threat to global peace and security. President Putin’s war of choice is a war on freedom, democracy, and the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on Russian leadership. The Government of Canada’s support to Ukraine has been comprehensive. With a long relationship dating back to the end of the Cold War, Canada drew on a strong foundation of bilateral assistance and diplomatic ties when Russia launched a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Since 2022, the Government of Canada has committed over $13.3 billion in multifaceted assistance to Ukraine. Assistance is diverse and all-encompassing, including military, development, humanitarian, security and stabilization and financial assistance.  Support through financial assistance, expertise, sanctions, and diplomacy also addresses vitally important challenges such as constraining Russia's ability to finance its war, holding Russia to account for massive violations of international law and violations of human rights in Ukraine, as well as countering Russian disinformation, and addressing the global impact of the war on food security and energy.Diplomatically, Canada has played a central role in supporting the six United Nations General Assembly resolutions denouncing the war as illegal and issuing statements and other actions across multiple multilateral organizations to hold Russia to account. Canada has also played a key leadership role across G7, G20, NATO, and other groupings, leading to an unsurpassed level of collective action and coordination.Another form of Canadian support to Ukraine is through the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), a comprehensive, high-standard agreement that, once implemented, will strengthen the foundation on which Canadian and Ukrainian businesses can work together in the economic reconstruction of Ukraine. Building on the original 2017 CUFTA which was a comprehensive goods-focussed agreement, Canada and Ukraine launched negotiations to modernize the agreement to include various new chapters on trade in services, investment, and other areas. The final modernized CUFTA was signed by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in Ottawa on September 22, 2023. The Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Ukraine, Bill-C57, was later introduced in Parliament where opposition to the Bill has been raised regarding the inclusion of carbon pricing in the CUFTA Environment chapter.The Environment chapter recognizes that trade has an important role in addressing the threat to climate and includes several provisions to facilitate cooperation between Canada and Ukraine on matters of mutual interests regarding trade and the environment, including on carbon pricing. These provisions, which are cooperation-based in nature and not binding on either party, are included to facilitate cooperation between our two countries and would only apply if Canada and Ukraine agree to cooperate after considering factors such as national priorities, circumstances, and availability of resources. However, it should be noted that the Agreement does not include any provisions requiring the implementation of a carbon tax. Additionally, carbon pricing has been in place since 2019 in Canada while Ukraine introduced a carbon tax in 2011, which covers all types of fuels, to address CO2 emissions from industry, power, and buildings sectors. 
Canada-Ukraine Free Trade AgreementTrade agreementsUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02068441-02068 (Taxation)BonitaZarrilloPort Moody—CoquitlamNDPBCFebruary 2, 2024March 18, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02062441-02062 (Taxation)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNDPBCFebruary 2, 2024March 18, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 16, 2024441-02184441-02184 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBFebruary 16, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02165441-02165 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBFebruary 14, 2024March 22, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which received Royal Assent on December 5, 2023. Bill C-48 enacts changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 enacts new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as makes additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also adopts changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The changes brought by Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 18, 2024441-02231441-02231 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONMarch 18, 2024December 14, 2023Petition to the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Glenburnie Public School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02024441-02024 (Media and telecommunications)DaveEppChatham-Kent—LeamingtonConservativeONJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024December 13, 2023Petition to the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustryWHEREAS: Canadians continue to pay the second highest cellular rates anywhere in the world, and yet continue to have some of the worst connective coverage; Canadians should be able to at least have reliable service along major roads such as the 400-series highways, given our remoteness, severe weather conditions, and great distances of travel from our homes;Complaints to the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-Television Services (CCTS) are up 12% nationally since August 1, 2022, and the CCTS has confirmed 36 breaches of the Wireless Code of Conduct by Canadian telecom providers in that same period;Canadian cellular communication tower infrastructure continues to have a severe, life-threatening lack of capacity, particularly in our underserviced and oversubscribed populated rural areas to keep us connected; andThese lapses in service, in some cases, prevent Canadians from reaching the most basic of emergency services resulting in preventable human tragedies during fires, floods, and automobile accidents.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the government of Canada to: Ensure that no residential area in Ontario is without reliable and dependable cellular service and access to emergency services such as 9-1-1 by directing the Canadian Radio & Telecommunication Commission (CRTC) to immediately review the integrity of Canada's cellular infrastructure and provide a Quality of Service report to the House by the end of February 2024;Direct the Standing Committee on Industry and Technology to undertake a study comprised of telecom service providers, consumers, public advocates, industry experts, and allowing written submission from the public to be entered into evidence and issue a report to the House of Commons by the end of March 2024; andInstruct the Minister of Heritage and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry of Canada to table with the House their departments' policies, regulations, and directives demonstrating how they are meeting and plan to meet this public service crisis of telecommunications capacity and quality.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HON. FRANÇOIS-PHILIPPE CHAMPAGNEThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views on the importance of reliable mobile cellular connectivity.The Government of Canada knows that now more than ever, Canadians rely on telecommunications services for work, school, finances, health care, and staying connected. In particular, the Government recognizes that providing access to emergency services is a critical function of mobile cellular services. The Government is working to improve the reliability of telecommunications and better protect Canadians.Following the Rogers outage in July 2022, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry brought together major telecommunications companies to improve Canada’s network reliability, and as a result, a memorandum of understanding between these companies is now in place with provisions on emergency roaming, mutual assistance, and improving public awareness around telecommunications outages.In September 2022, the Government announced the Telecommunications Reliability Agenda, which includes a set of actions to improve the reliability and resilience of Canada’s telecommunications networks. As part of this work, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry charged the industry members of the Canadian Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee (CSTAC) with developing a set of recommendations to improve the reliability of Canada’s telecommunications networks. Similarly, the Minister requested that the industry members of the Canadian Forum for Digital Infrastructure Resilience (CFDIR) develop a set of recommendations to improve the reliability and resilience of digital infrastructure. Both CSTAC and CFDIR have submitted their recommendations and the Government is reviewing their reports. Additionally, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is holding a series of consultations to develop a regulatory framework to improve telecommunications network reliability and resiliency, beginning with its consultations on reporting telecommunications outages. The CRTC is also considering consultations on network resiliency principles, emergency services (9-1-1), public alerting, and other consumer protection measures.Amendments to the Telecommunications Act have also been put forward as part of Bill C-26: An Act respecting cyber security, amending the Telecommunications Act and making consequential amendments to other Acts. It includes provisions that would enable the Government to take further action to promote the security and reliability of telecommunications networks.A number of initiatives are also underway to improve universal access to telecommunications services in more challenging to connect rural and remote areas. In June 2019, the Government of Canada released High-Speed Access for All: Canada’s Connectivity Strategy, a historic commitment to make affordable, high-speed Internet infrastructure available to all Canadians and to improve mobile wireless access from coast to coast to coast. The Strategy outlines Canada's action plan to leverage new and existing investments and technologies, as well as to collaborate with provinces, territories and other partners.The Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) is a key initiative under the Strategy and provides a total of $3.225 billion to support connectivity in underserved rural and remote communities. This includes up to $50 million for mobile Internet projects that primarily benefit Indigenous peoples, including projects along highways and roads where mobile connectivity is lacking. With this program, the Government has now made a total of $7.6 billion available to connect Canadians since 2015.These investments build on existing programs that continue to roll out. The CRTC has a $675 million Broadband Fund in place, sourced through an industry levy, to support connectivity projects, including for mobile wireless networks in underserved communities and along major transportation roads. The Fund’s most recent third call for applications focused on transport projects, mobile wireless projects along major transportation roads, and projects requiring operational funding to increase satellite transport capacity in all eligible geographic areas across Canada.The Government is also taking steps to improve mobile wireless connectivity by making more radiofrequency spectrum available, which is needed to provide services to Canadians. In November 2023, the Government concluded its auction of the 3800 MHz band, where it set a 100 MHz cap on how much combined 3500 MHz and 3800 MHz spectrum a provider could acquire, effectively reserving spectrum for smaller competitors. In total, 4,099 licences were awarded to 20 Canadian bidders, including 870 licences to small and regional providers across the country. When combined with the results of the 3500 MHz auction, small and regional providers have doubled their spectrum holdings, further strengthening their ability to offer competitive services.In addition, on February 13, 2023, the Government issued a binding policy direction to the CRTC on a renewed approach to telecommunications policy. The policy direction requires Canada’s telecommunications regulator to regulate in a manner consistent with the Government’s priorities in telecommunications. The policy direction includes a range of measures to improve competition, affordability, consumer rights, and innovation, and will help the Government speed up deployment and reach its universal access goals.Regarding wireless connectivity specifically, the policy direction instructs the CRTC to continue administering a funding mechanism for connectivity projects with consideration for greater priority on mobile wireless connectivity; to improve its approach to collecting and reporting data on mobile wireless coverage; and to periodically review the effectiveness of its mobile wireless services regulatory framework to help ensure Canadians have access to affordable mobile wireless services and improved wireless competition.With respect to mobile wireless prices, data from Statistics Canada shows that with increased competition in the market in the past year, wireless prices have declined across the board by 26%. The government will continue to insist on improved competition and better prices for consumers.The Government of Canada supports a competitive marketplace where consumers are treated fairly and shares the concerns that many Canadians have expressed regarding the practices of certain telecommunications companies. That is why the Government of Canada helped to establish the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-Television Services (CCTS) in 2007. The CCTS is an independent organization that provides consumers with recourse when they are unable to resolve disagreements directly with their Telecommunications Service Provider (TSP).Although the CCTS had a 14% increase in the complaints it received last year, the CCTS has consistently resolved a high majority of the complaints it receives to the satisfaction of telecommunications customers. In their 2022-23 Annual Report, the CCTS reported that it had resolved 89% of the complaints it concluded that year to the satisfaction of both the consumer and the service provider, which is one percent higher than last year. The CCTS is well positioned to investigate any breaches of the Wireless Code and to ensure any issues are resolved appropriately. The CCTS is a valuable resource for Canadians seeking to resolve their telecommunications complaints, and is part of the Government’s overall approach to improving outcomes for consumers.More information on the Government's efforts to improve mobile connectivity and resiliency can be found in the Telecommunications Reliability Agenda, Canada’s Connectivity Strategy, and the 2023 Policy Direction. The Government will continue to take action to promote access to reliable and dependable telecommunications services in all regions of the country.
OntarioTelecommunications and telecommunications industry
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 19, 2024441-02245441-02245 (Taxation)KellyBlockCarlton Trail—Eagle CreekConservativeSKMarch 19, 2024December 13, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 26, 2024441-02211441-02211 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABFebruary 26, 2024February 26, 2024Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:For over eight years, the Liberal government has put the privileges of criminals ahead of the rights of victims;Frequent parole hearings often revictimize and retraumatize the families of victims of murder;The Liberal government has failed to respond to the Bissonnette decision, disregarding the impact that this decision will have on the families of victims of some of Canada's most heinous murderers; andBill S-281, Brian's Bill, is a modest response to Bissonnette that puts victims first by preventing convicted murderers from applying for parole every year after serving their minimum sentence.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge Parliament to swiftly pass Brian's Bill.Conditional releaseS-281. An Act to amend the Corrections and Conditional Act (parole review)Victims of violence44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 27, 2024441-02229441-02229 (Democratic process)BrendanHanleyYukonLiberalYTFebruary 27, 2024February 20, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned Canadian citizens, would like to draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • The need for electoral reform continues to be a fundamental issue for citizens of all political persuasions, yet politicians cannot agree on the best way forward;
  • This calls for a new approach to developing a citizens' consensus on electoral reform; and
  • Representative non-partisan citizens' assemblies provided with the necessary resources, expert support and sufficient time have demonstrated their ability to competently tackle the issue of electoral reform in the past while coming to a citizens' consensus.
THEREFORE, we, the undersigned Canadian citizens, call upon the House of Commons to:
  • Give citizens a voice on the subject of electoral reform and a right to make recommendations; and
  • Support Motion M-86 calling for a Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform.
Electoral reformNational Citizens' Assembly on Electoral ReformPublic consultation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-02003441-02003 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • Women's shelters are sadly seeing increased demand;
  • The high cost of living and the housing crisis have made it harder for women and children fleeing a violent home to find a safe place to live; and
  • At a time when this Liberal government is dramatically increasing spending on bureaucracy and consultants, they are cutting $145 million of funding for women's shelters.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to restore funding for women's shelters.
Response by the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their concerns about the right to a safe and affordable place to call home.Providing a safe and secure space for persons fleeing domestic violence is a priority for our Government. The National Housing Strategy (NHS), a 10-year, more than $82-billion plan launched in 2017, is giving more people living in Canada a place to call home. The NHS consists of complementary programs and initiatives that aim to address needs across the housing continuum and prioritize populations most in need, including women and their children. The federal government aims to put 33% of the strategy’s investments, with a minimum of 25%, toward serving the unique needs of women and their children.NHS programs and initiatives support the creation of shelters, such as the $13.2 billion Affordable Housing Fund, previously known as the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, which aims to create 2,000 new shelter spaces and repair 2,000 shelters for survivors of family violence. As of September 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed to create 1,388 new shelter spaces or transitional housing units available for survivors of gender-based violence, and to repair/renew a further 347 shelter spaces or transitional housing units.  The Government recognizes that Indigenous women and children face unique challenges and barriers to housing. For those who experience violence, a shelter is often a first step to rebuilding their lives and protecting them from further violence. The NHS includes programming and funding exclusively for shelters in Indigenous communities and in the North. This includes $420 million through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative to build a minimum of 38 shelters and 50 new transitional homes for Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping gender-based violence. As of September 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed $89 million toward the construction of 11 shelters and 23 transitional homes through this program.In May 2020, our government committed $44.8 million to build a total of 12 new shelters across Canada for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping family violence. These Indigenous-led shelters will provide vital refuge and culturally appropriate critical supports and services to help survivors of family violence recover from the trauma of their experiences, access support programming and create a stable environment where they can begin to regain an independent life. They are also a crucial element of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, the Government of Canada’s response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and an important contribution to the National Action Plan to end violence against Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerGender-based violence is one of the most pervasive, deadly and deeply rooted human rights violation of our time.  This is why the Government of Canada is taking action.  The pandemic created unprecedented challenges for those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) and the organizations providing supports and services to them. While preventing and addressing GBV is a shared responsibility between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, the Government of Canada acted swiftly in 2020 to provide an initial $90 million in COVID-19 emergency funding, through Women and Gender Equality Canada, to organizations across Canada serving those experiencing GBV. A year into the pandemic, the government responded to high demand and pressing needs by more than tripling the funding support and extending the timeframe for this emergency measure through Budget 2021. Since April 2020, approximately $300 million in total funding has been committed to organizations, providing emergency funding to over 1,400 organizations including women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and other GBV organizations. As a result, more than 2 million individuals experiencing violence had a safe place to go, and access to supports across Canada.  These investments served as an emergency response to the crisis above and beyond the ongoing work under the Federal Gender-Based Violence Strategy.Like other COVID-19 emergency measures introduced by the federal government since 2020, this temporary measure has come to an end. However, the Government of Canada remains committed to addressing GBV:
  • Budget 2021 invests $601.3 million over five years in initiatives to advance towards the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This included $200 million (of the $300 million) specifically for COVID-19 emergency funding. 
  • Budget 2022 invests a further $539.3 million over five years to support provinces and territories with the implementation of the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.
On November 9, 2022,  Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women launched a historic 10-year National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This Plan is a concrete step in fulfilling a long-standing commitment of Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments to work together towards a Canada free of gender-based violence.  The Plan is supported by an investment of $539.3 million over five years, committed in Budget 2022, to support the provinces and territories in their implementation efforts.  This funding is provided to provinces and territories through bilateral agreements.As of December 2023, the Government of Canada announced agreements with all provinces and territories. These agreements, along with the respective provincial/territorial implementation plans are available on Women and Gender Equality Canada’s website.
SheltersWomen
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02032441-02032 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024November 22, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerEquality rights are at the core of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are intended to ensure that everyone of every age is treated with the same respect, dignity, and consideration, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, mental or physical disability, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, and gender identities and expressions, from coast, to coast to coast.Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression continue to be a reality in Canada, and it must be eliminated. It is important that parents be involved in the lives of their children, and that should be balanced with the importance of protecting vulnerable young people.The Government of Canada is committed to promoting 2SLGBTQI+ equality, protecting 2SLGBTQI+ rights, and addressing discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both past and current.The Government has taken several actions to end discrimination against transgender and gender diverse people in Canada. Some highlights:• A new Action Plan to Combat Hate that will also address hate faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including trans people (Budget 2023, chapter 4)• 2022: Government of Canada criminalized conversion therapies, see Statement• 2017: Canadian Human Rights Act amended to protect gender identity and gender expression• 2022: Launch of Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action PlanThe first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan enables the federal government to help advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people of every age in Canada. It also seeks to address and prevent discrimination and stigma based on sexual orientation, sex characteristics, gender identity and expression for future 2SLGBTQI+ generations.The Action Plan achieves these objectives by prioritizing community action and by coordinating work to advance 2SLGBTQI+ issues across the federal government, recognizing the types of inequities facing communities. The plan is supported by an investment of $100 million, which will help create a more equitable Canada for 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both present and future generations. In doing so it builds upon work the Government of Canada has done to address persisting disparities faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities and to build a safer, more inclusive country.
ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2024441-02084441-02084 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 5, 2024March 20, 2024November 22, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerEquality rights are at the core of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are intended to ensure that everyone of every age is treated with the same respect, dignity, and consideration, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, mental or physical disability, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, and gender identities and expressions, from coast, to coast to coast.Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression continue to be a reality in Canada, and it must be eliminated. It is important that parents be involved in the lives of their children, and that should be balanced with the importance of protecting vulnerable young people.The Government of Canada is committed to promoting 2SLGBTQI+ equality, protecting 2SLGBTQI+ rights, and addressing discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both past and current.The Government has taken several actions to end discrimination against transgender and gender diverse people in Canada. Some highlights:• A new Action Plan to Combat Hate that will also address hate faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including trans people (Budget 2023, chapter 4)• 2022: Government of Canada criminalized conversion therapies, see Statement• 2017: Canadian Human Rights Act amended to protect gender identity and gender expression• 2022: Launch of Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action PlanThe first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan enables the federal government to help advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people of every age in Canada. It also seeks to address and prevent discrimination and stigma based on sexual orientation, sex characteristics, gender identity and expression for future 2SLGBTQI+ generations.The Action Plan achieves these objectives by prioritizing community action and by coordinating work to advance 2SLGBTQI+ issues across the federal government, recognizing the types of inequities facing communities. The plan is supported by an investment of $100 million, which will help create a more equitable Canada for 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both present and future generations. In doing so it builds upon work the Government of Canada has done to address persisting disparities faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities and to build a safer, more inclusive country.
ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-02000441-02000 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024November 1, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01930441-01930 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 20, 2023January 29, 2024November 1, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 30, 2023441-01768441-01768 (Social affairs and equality)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONOctober 17, 2023November 30, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • Women's shelters are sadly seeing increased demand;
  • The high cost of living and the housing crisis have made it harder for women and children fleeing a violent home to find a safe place to live; and
  • At a time when this Liberal government is dramatically increasing spending on bureaucracy and consultants, they are cutting $145 million of funding for women's shelters.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to restore funding for women's shelters.
Response by the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their concerns about the right to a safe and affordable place to call home. Providing a safe and secure space for persons fleeing domestic violence is a priority for our government. Launched in 2017, the National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10-year, more than $82-billion plan giving more people living in Canada a place to call home. The NHS consists of complementary programs and initiatives that aim to address needs across the housing continuum while prioritizing populations most in need, including women and their children. The federal government aims to put 33% of the strategy’s investments, with a minimum of 25%, toward serving the unique needs of women and their children.NHS programs and initiatives support the creation of shelters, such as the $13.2 billion National Housing Co-Investment Fund which aims to create 2,000 new shelter spaces and repair 2,000 shelters for survivors of family violence. As of June 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed to creating 1,241 new shelter spaces or transitional housing units available for survivors of gender-based violence, and to repair/renew a further 302 units.  The Government recognizes that Indigenous women and children face unique challenges and barriers to housing. For those who experience violence, a shelter is often a first step to rebuilding their lives and protecting them from further violence. The NHS includes programming and funding exclusively for shelters in Indigenous communities and in the North. This includes $420 million through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative to build a minimum of 38 shelters and 50 new transitional homes for Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping gender-based violence. As of June 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed $76 million toward the construction of 11 shelters and 18 transitional homes through this program.In May 2020, our government committed $44.8 million to build a total of 12 new shelters across Canada for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping family violence. These Indigenous-led shelters will provide vital refuge and culturally appropriate critical supports and services to help survivors of family violence recover from the trauma of their experiences, access support programming and create a stable environment where they can begin to regain an independent life. This is also a crucial element of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, the Government of Canada’s response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and an important contribution to the National Action Plan to end violence against Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. 
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerIn response to unprecedented challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada provided approximately $300 million in emergency funding to over 1,400 organizations such as women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and other organizations that provide critical supports and services to those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV), including intimate partner violence.Along with other temporary COVID-19 emergency measures introduced by the federal government since 2020, this measure is coming to an end.  Despite this, the Government of Canada continues to support critical services for individuals experiencing gender-based violence. Most notably, on November 9, 2022, Women and Gender Equality Canada launched a historic National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This provides an investment of $539.3 million over five years, committed in Budget 2022, which is being implemented through bilateral agreements with the provinces and territories to support their efforts to address and end gender-based violence. These agreements, along with the respective provincial/territorial implementation plans, will be posted on Women and Gender Equality Canada’s website. This historic funding builds on additional Government of Canada investments to address gender-based violence since 2021-22:
SheltersWomen
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 13, 2023441-01922441-01922 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 9, 2023December 13, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerEquality rights are at the core of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are intended to ensure that everyone of every age is treated with the same respect, dignity, and consideration, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, mental or physical disability, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, and gender identities and expressions, from coast, to coast to coast.Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression continue to be a reality in Canada, and it must be eliminated. It is important that parents be involved in the lives of their children, and that should be balanced with the importance of protecting vulnerable young people.The Government of Canada is committed to promoting 2SLGBTQI+ equality, protecting 2SLGBTQI+ rights, and addressing discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both past and current.The Government has taken several actions to end discrimination against transgender and gender diverse people in Canada. Some highlights:
  • A new Action Plan to Combat Hate that will also address hate faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including trans people (See Budget 2023, chapter 4)
  •  2022: Government of Canada criminalized conversion therapies, see Statement
  • 2017: Canadian Human Rights Act amended to protect gender identity and gender expression
  • 2022: Launch of Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan
The first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan enables the federal government to help advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people of every age in Canada. It also seeks to address and prevent discrimination and stigma based on sexual orientation, sex characteristics, gender identity and expression for future 2SLGBTQI+ generations.The Action Plan achieves these objectives by prioritizing community action and by coordinating work to advance 2SLGBTQI+ issues across the federal government, recognizing the types of inequities facing communities. The plan is supported by an investment of $100 million, which will help create a more equitable Canada for 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both present and future generations. In doing so it builds upon work the Government of Canada has done to address persisting disparities faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities and to build a safer, more inclusive country. 
ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01890441-01890 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 6, 2023January 29, 2024November 1, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Canada has a tradition of respecting, honoring, and affirming the role of faith traditions in the Canadian Armed Forces;
  • The Canadian Armed Forces Chaplaincy program contributes to the health, morale, and spiritual wellbeing of servicemen and women from all faith and non-faith backgrounds; and
  • The Liberal government undermines the rights and freedoms of all servicemen and women by prohibiting diverse religious expression.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:
  • Affirm that the Canadian Armed Forces ought to be free to support servicemen and women through public prayer in keeping with the hard-won and honourable traditions of the Canadian Armed Forces, such as and especially on Remembrance Day.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France LalondeThe Defence Team deeply values the work of military chaplains to support Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, and we will continue to build a diverse, inclusive military that attracts and retains talented people, as well as a chaplaincy that reflects the diversity of spiritual and faith beliefs of Canada and supports both the free expression of religious belief and the right of military members not to express a religious belief.The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service holds deep respect for the diverse religious and spiritual belief systems and practices of serving and retired CAF members, their families and Canadians. As such, CAF chaplains prioritize cultivating inclusive environments where all can feel welcome at ceremonies and events in which chaplains participate or offer leadership. This is why prayer and other faith-specific language that may be offered by CAF chaplains is very much subject to the context, participants and intended nature of the gathering or ceremony in which they are participating, including whether the ceremony or event is secular or non-secular in nature, open to the public at large, or private.With respect to Remembrance Day, specifically, most important to the Chaplain General is maintaining the focus on honouring the sacrifice of all who have gone before us in service to Canada, and to offer thanksgiving for their service and sacrifice. It is paramount that chaplains continue to offer words of remembrance, encouragement, and hope to CAF members and their families.
Canadian Armed ForcesFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01875441-01875 (Health)Hon.Judy A.SgroHumber River—Black CreekLiberalONNovember 6, 2023January 29, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to the House of Commons WHEREAS:
  • Over 8 million people are suffering from eye diseases and 1.2 million live with vision loss or blindness;
  • 75% of vision losses cases, if diagnosed and treated early, are preventable;
  • Historically, the federal government has lacked any substantive framework on the matter of public eye health care and the current structure has created huge gaps in access to care;
  • Systematic tackling of the issue will improve lives of millions of Canadians; and
  • It is necessary to establish a proper coordination framework between federal and provincial governments, increase capacity, provide sufficient funding for eye care, make vision care more affordable and inclusive, raise awareness of the importance of the vision care.
THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt bill C-284, an Act to establish a national strategy for eye care, as soon as possible.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mark HollandVision care is beneficial through all stages of life. Healthy vision is important for young children’s development, and helps to make many careers and activities of daily life easier. As people age, maintaining good eye health can reduce the odds of facing blindness and vision loss, as well as improve outcomes associated with eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma.Vision loss in Canada can be caused by several common eye diseases, including macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. According to a report from Deloitte and the Canadian Council of the Blind, more than eight million Canadians had a common eye disease in 2019 and were at serious risk of losing their vision. More than 1 in 10 older adults had some degree of vision loss.Regular eye exams can identify early issues with eye health and also screen for a range of health conditions including high blood pressures, diabetes, macular degeneration, and various blood diseases.While provinces and territories have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services, the federal health portfolio is leading and supporting a range of activities related to eye disease prevention and treatment.The Government of Canada is committed to investing in our health care system and supporting provinces and territories in delivering better health care for Canadians. The 2023 Federal Budget committed close to $200 billion over ten years in health funding to provinces and territories. This includes $46.2 billion in new funding, $25 billion of which has been designated to address four shared health priorities:
  • expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • modernizing the health care system with standardized health data and digital tools.
This funding builds on the 2017 investment of $11 billion over ten years to help provinces and territories improve home and community care, and mental health, and $3 billion to strengthen long-term care from Budget 2021. Addressing health workforce shortages and surgical backlogs, including for vision-related surgeries, is a key part of the Government of Canada’s plan for the health care system. Budget 2023 included a $2 billion one-time top-up to provinces and territories to address urgent pressures in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and pediatric hospitals.Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits Program also provides vision care to eligible First Nations and Inuit beneficiaries where not otherwise covered by other plans or programs. The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program’s vision care coverage includes eye exams, corrective eyewear, and eyeglass repairs.The Government of Canada recognizes that supporting research is key to a fulsome understanding of eye health, including how to prevent vision loss. Since 2018, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research have invested approximately $61 million in vision-related research. This research spans the spectrum of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various vision-related conditions.Health Canada also regulates drugs and medical devices, including those intended to be used for eye diseases and conditions. Where warranted, Health Canada has existing expedited review pathways that can be used to facilitate quicker access to health products that treat, prevent, or diagnose serious or life-threatening disease and conditions. Health Canada is also working closely with key stakeholders to identify and mitigate critical shortages of ophthalmic products when they occur.Finally, the Government of Canada is committed to the prevention and treatment of eye disease, and fully supports Canada’s public health system, which provides coverage for any vision care service that must be performed in a hospital.Private Member’s Bill C-284 will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-284, An Act to establish a national strategy for eye careNational Strategy for Eye CareVision health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01715441-01715 (Environment)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCOctober 4, 2023November 20, 2023September 26, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada WHEREAS:
  • In 2020, the House of Commons passed Bill C-204, An Act to amend the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (final disposal of plastic waste), which would have banned the export of plastic waste for final disposal;
  • A recent report by CBC's The Fifth Estate highlighted how Canadian companies continue to violate international laws on waste exports by shipping plastic waste to developing countries; and
  • In the last 5 years, 123 shipping containers have been returned to Canada, yet only 6 fines have been issued totaling less than $9,000.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to enact stronger penalties for those companies and individuals who violate international laws on waste exports and ban the export of plastic waste for final disposal.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTBill C-204, An Act to amend the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (final disposal of plastic waste), was initially introduced in the 43rd Parliament. However, Bill C-204 died on the Order Paper when the Federal Election was called in August 2021.Senator Carignan introduced Bill S-234 on December 16, 2021. Bill S-234 is substantively identical to Bill C-204, as amended by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development. It is currently being studied by the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, Environment and Natural Resources.While Bill C-204 and Bill S-234 are substantively the same, the Government assesses each Bill prior to adopting a position. The Government will also take into consideration the outcome of the Bill as it proceeds through the Senate.The Government of Canada recognizes that plastic pollution affects wildlife and habitats, burdens economies, threatens livelihoods, and impacts the spaces Canadians cherish. This is a critical global challenge that requires prompt action. As such, the Government of Canada is committed to working with all levels of government, industry, civil society and others to reduce plastic pollution from land and aquatic sources and transition to circular and sustainable systems where plastics stay in the economy and out of the environment.The government is implementing its comprehensive plan https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/managing-reducing-waste/reduce-plastic-waste/canada-action.html through a range of complementary actions spanning the plastics lifecycle to reduce plastic waste, enable a circular plastics economy and protect the environment from plastic pollution. This includes: investing in science and in innovations, banning certain harmful single-use plastics, developing minimum recycled content requirements for plastic items, introducing rules to enhance the labelling of recyclable and compostable plastics and better inform consumers, designing a federal plastics registry that will require producers to report on plastics they place on the Canadian economy to support provincial and territorial extended producer responsibility efforts, and establishing a recycling target for plastic beverage containers.The Government is also working with provinces and territories through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment to implement the Canada-wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste and its associated Action Plan https://ccme.ca/en/current-activities/waste. This includes the publication of a roadmap to manage single-use and disposable plastics as well as guidance to facilitate consistent extended producer responsibility programs for plastics. Additional work is underway to create guidance to inform consumer behaviours and target plastic pollution sources.Internationally, Canada continues to play a leadership role in tackling plastic pollution and is working with other countries and partners, including as an inaugural member of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, to develop an ambitious and effective legally binding international instrument to end plastic pollution. Building on its comprehensive domestic plan and international efforts, the Government of Canada will strive for a comprehensive agreement that addresses the full lifecycle of plastics. In April 2024, Canada will host the fourth session of the international negotiating committee in Ottawa to develop the new agreement.The Government of Canada is a party to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal. The federal government complies with its international obligations under the Convention through the implementation of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA)https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-15.31/ and the Cross-border Movement of Hazardous Waste and Hazardous Recyclable Material Regulationshttps://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-2021-25/page-1.html, which control international and interprovincial movements of hazardous waste and hazardous recyclable material.All Parties to the Basel Convention (191 Parties), including Canada, have ratified the Basel amendments on plastic waste that were adopted in 2019. The purpose of these amendments is to contribute to a cleaner trade of plastic waste globally by controlling exports of plastic waste to countries that face challenges managing it properly.  The Government of Canada officially accepted (ratified) the Basel amendments on plastic waste in December 2020.  As a result, hazardous plastic waste continues to be controlled under the Convention. The major change is that plastic waste that is not hazardous, yet hard to recycle, or contaminated, is now subject to controls.The Government of Canada has implemented these amendments since January 1, 2021, through its legislative regime and requires the prior informed consent of the importing and transit, if applicable, country before certain waste can be exported. Once this permission is obtained, Environment and Climate Change Canada issues an export permit to the Canadian exporter. In providing its consent, the importing country confirms that it will manage the hazardous waste or hazardous recyclable material in an environmentally sound manner. In instances where consent is not obtained, the export is not allowed.  The exporter of any plastic waste exported from Canada under a permit must confirm that the waste has been disposed of or recycled in an environmentally sound manner in the country of destination.Work to strengthen the regime for the transboundary movement of waste continues. Most recently, on September 30, 2023, proposed amendments to theCross-border Movement of Hazardous Waste and Hazardous Recyclable Material Regulations were published in Canada Gazette Part I. The proposed amendments would also apply the Prior Informed Consent Procedure to all e-waste shipments, put Canada in a position to ratify the Basel Ban Amendments, as well as clarify certain implementation requirements of the Regulations which will hold exporters accountable for any shipments that are in contravention of CEPA and the Regulations. The Basel Ban Amendment prohibits exports of most hazardous wastes and hazardous recyclable materials from member states of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, such as Canada, to developing countries. Stakeholders, interested parties, and Canadians are invited to review the proposed amendments and provide feedback before November 29, 2023.Illegal traffic is a reality and Environment and Climate Change Canada continues its efforts to address this issue. The department works collaboratively with other departments such as the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to ensure compliance with the regulations. With CBSA, Environment and Climate Change Canada participated in a worldwide inspection initiative, Operation Demeter VIII with 89 other members of the World Customs Organization (WCO) from around the world including China, Italy, Laos, and Belgium. During this operation, Canada denied export of 10 containers at Canadian ports.Compliance promotion plays a key role in informing the Canadian exporters’ community of the regulatory requirements related to the export of plastic waste. When combined with enforcement actions, they are an effective tool to address illegal exports and influence changes in the industry.   
ExportsPlasticsWaste disposal
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01737441-01737 (Animals)LindsayMathyssenLondon—FanshaweNDPONOctober 5, 2023November 20, 2023September 15, 2023Petition to the Minister of National DefenceWhereas:
  • As part of federal defence department training exercises, over eighteen hundred piglets have been killed after being stabbed, mutilated and exposed to radiation and chemical nerve agents;
  • Inadequately sedated piglets revived during the five-hour training exercise, with one piglet "vocalizing loudly" and another "attempting to jump off the (surgical) table";
  • Since 2005, the people responsible for ensuring that these piglets did not suffer, knew that the piglets were reviving but hid the information from the government and Canadians by altering documents and concealing what actually happened;
  • According to an Abacus poll conducted in January, 2023, only 1 in 10 Canadians support the use of piglets for military trauma training; and
  • 77% of NATO nations no longer use animals for military medical training.
We, the undersigned, Citizens and Residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of National Defence to end the use of animals in military medical training.
Response by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France LalondeNational Defence uses advanced simulations with life-like mannequins, known as human patient simulators for the majority of its medical training. Live tissue training on an anesthetized pig is used only in circumstances where simulations alone are not feasible, as is the case of Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear training for medical providers. In these cases, simulators cannot replace the precision and experience gained with live tissue.During live tissue training, National Defence strictly adheres to the guidelines of the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) (https://ccac.ca/) which establishes the ethical use and care of animals. Further, the use of animals is governed by Defence Administrative Orders and Directive (DAOD) 8014-0 Animal Use in Research and Training and DAOD 8014-1 Management of Animal Use in Research, Teaching and Testing.  This is in line with CCAC standards as well as assessments and certifications to ensure consistent application of the standards across Canada.  National Defence actively seeks to refine, reduce and where appropriate replace the use of live animals for research by using alternative experimental techniques. For example, in 2022, National Defence invested approximately $129,000 in an advanced simulation mannequin or high-fidelity patient simulator, to evaluate its utility to augment medical training provided to CAF members.The approach of using advanced simulation for the majority of training and live tissue training sparingly offers military medical trainees with the highest calibre medical training possible with the goal of providing premium medical care to CAF members and those they protect, at home or abroad.
Animal rights and welfareHogsMilitary exercises
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01738441-01738 (Social affairs and equality)Hon.BardishChaggerWaterlooLiberalONOctober 5, 2023November 20, 2023September 15, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • In November 2020, the final report of the Prince Edward Island Special Committee on Poverty in PEI recommended that the Government of Prince Edward Island begin immediate negotiations with the Government of Canada to develop and implement a Basic Income Guarantee demonstration program for Prince Edward Island;
  • This report has the support of all political parties in Prince Edward Island; and
  • This demonstration Program will benefit all of Canada, as poverty is the primary social determinant of heath and requires bold and creative approaches to understand and address its root causes and consequences in Canada.
THEREFORE, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to begin immediate negotiations with the Government of Prince Edward Island to develop and implement a Basic Income Guarantee demonstration program in the province of PEI that will be administered, monitored, and evaluated for at least five years.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada is taking crucial steps to help make life more affordable for more Canadians, while investing to grow the economy and create jobs.  Income security is a shared responsibility across all orders of government. The federal Government recognizes the importance of working with provinces and territories to address issues regarding affordability for Canadians.This petition calls for the Government of Canada to negotiate with the Government of Prince Edward Island to develop and implement a Basic Income Guarantee demonstration program for Prince Edward Island. If the province of Prince Edward Island decides to proceed with a basic income pilot, the Government of Canada would be pleased to collaborate and could potentially share federal-level administrative, survey, and tax data that could support program design and evaluation.The Government of Canada has already implemented programs that address some elements of a partial basic income, such as the Canada Child Benefit for families with children, and the Old Age Security pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement for seniors. These and other initiatives have contributed to progress on lifting Canadians out of poverty. These programs complement provincial and territorial programs, including those that deliver social assistance.In addition, recent budgets introduced several measures that will help to reduce poverty and inequality. For example, Budget 2023 made significant investments to build a healthier Canada and deliver affordable dental care, including $13 billion over five years, and $4.4 billion ongoing, to implement the Canada Dental Care Plan.  The Government is also working with provincial, territorial and Indigenous partners to build a Canada-wide, community-based early learning child care system. The federal government is providing provinces and territories with significant funding to support substantial reductions to families for the cost of regulated child care spaces.The Government of Canada also undertakes research and analysis on potential basic income programs and other approaches that could positively impact Canada’s economy and society, as part of its efforts to tackle poverty and to ensure that all Canadians have a real and fair opportunity to succeed.
Guaranteed annual incomePrince Edward Island
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 14, 2023441-01855441-01855 (Animals)LindsayMathyssenLondon—FanshaweNDPONOctober 31, 2023December 14, 2023September 15, 2023Petition to the Minister of National DefenceWhereas:
  • As part of federal defence department training exercises, over eighteen hundred piglets have been killed after being stabbed, mutilated and exposed to radiation and chemical nerve agents;
  • Inadequately sedated piglets revived during the five-hour training exercise, with one piglet "vocalizing loudly" and another "attempting to jump off the (surgical) table";
  • Since 2005, the people responsible for ensuring that these piglets did not suffer, knew that the piglets were reviving but hid the information from the government and Canadians by altering documents and concealing what actually happened;
  • According to an Abacus poll conducted in January, 2023, only 1 in 10 Canadians support the use of piglets for military trauma training; and
  • 77% of NATO nations no longer use animals for military medical training.
We, the undersigned, Citizens and Residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of National Defence to end the use of animals in military medical training.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France LalondeNational Defence uses advanced simulations with life-like mannequins, known as human patient simulators for the majority of its medical training. Live tissue training on an anesthetized pig is used only in circumstances where simulations alone are not feasible, as is the case of Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear training for medical providers. In these cases, simulators cannot replace the precision and experience gained with live tissue.During live tissue training, National Defence strictly adheres to the guidelines of the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) (https://ccac.ca/) which establishes the ethical use and care of animals. Further, the use of animals is governed by Defence Administrative Orders and Directive (DAOD) 8014-0 Animal Use in Research and Training and DAOD 8014-1 Management of Animal Use in Research, Teaching and Testing.  This is in line with CCAC standards as well as assessments and certifications to ensure consistent application of the standards across Canada.  National Defence actively seeks to refine, reduce and where appropriate replace the use of live animals for research by using alternative experimental techniques. For example, in 2022, National Defence invested approximately $129,000 in an advanced simulation mannequin or high-fidelity patient simulator, to evaluate its utility to augment medical training provided to CAF members.The approach of using advanced simulation for the majority of training and live tissue training sparingly offers military medical trainees with the highest calibre medical training possible with the goal of providing premium medical care to CAF members and those they protect, at home or abroad.
Animal rights and welfareHogsMilitary exercises
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01617441-01617 (Transportation)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023September 18, 2023PETITION TO THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORTWhereas:
  • Hobbyists in Canada flying radio-controlled model airplanes are separate and distinct from those flying drones;
  • The flying of radio-controlled model airplanes is a separate and distinct mode of flight from that of drones;
  • The Model Aeronautics Association of Canada includes over 13,000 members and hundreds of model airplane flying clubs across Canada;
  • Prior to 2023, radio-controlled model airplane pilots were long exempt from Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems rules and regulations under the Canadian Aviation Regulations;
  • In 2023, Transport Canada and NAV CANADA amended the rules regarding the flying of model airplanes and drones that unified the regulations applicable to both, effectively regulating them as the same mode of flying; and
  • This action has resulted in new, additional, unnecessary paperwork requirements and burden to be imposed onto hobbyists flying radio-controlled model airplanes.
We, the undersigned, call upon the Minister of Transport to:
  • Separate regulations applicable to radio-controlled model airplanes from regulations applicable to drones; and
  • Remove all unnecessary paperwork and regulatory burdens imposed onto hobbyists flying radio-controlled model airplanes by reestablishing an exemption from the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems rules and regulations.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezIn 2019, with the coming into force of Part IX – Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems of the Canadian Aviation Regulations,Transport Canada issued an Exemption to the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada that allowed its members to operate model aircraft between 250 grams and 35 kilograms while abiding by all applicable safety guidelines and conditions set out in the Exemption. The decision to issue an exemption to the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada was based on an assessment of their safety policies and procedures, which were assessed as providing an acceptable level of safety to Part IX of the Canadian Aviation Regulations, which sets out registration, pilot licensing, and operational requirements for remotely piloted aircraft system in Canada. The Exemption included several conditions designed to further mitigate potential safety risks, including that it would no longer be valid should any of the conditions be breached.On February 3, 2023, Model Aeronautics Association of Canada was notified that the Exemption was rendered invalid due to a breach of Condition #3, which read that “Prior to sanctioning a field in Class C, D, E, F, or any other type of restricted airspace,  Model Aeronautics Association of Canada shall obtain an authorization through a written agreement from the appropriate controlling agency or user agency for the area, [and] shall include operational boundaries, maximum altitudes, and communication protocols to facilitate the safe operation of remotely piloted aircraft system at the field”. Since the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada did not receive written authorization from the controlling agency (NAV CANADA) prior to sanctioning some fields in controlled airspace, the Exemption is no longer valid. As such, members of the Model Aeronautics Association of Canadaare now required to follow the rules set out in Part IX of the Canadian Aviation Regulations.Canadian Aviation Regulations 101.01(1) defines a remotely piloted aircraft as “a navigable aircraft, other than a balloon, rocket, or kite that is operated by a pilot who is not on board.” This includes drones and model aircraft.All Canadian pilots of remotely piloted aircraft systems, including recreational operators, must understand that they are sharing the skies with other aircraft and follow the rules set out in Part IX of the Canadian Aviation Regulations. They are encouraged to consult Transport Canada’s safety resources to ensure their operations are safe, legal, and avoid harming others.In parallel, in June 2023 Transport Canada pre-published proposed amendments to Part IX of the Canadian Aviation Regulations, which would allow for routine beyond visual line-of-sight operations with remotely piloted aircraft systems up to 150 kg away from populated areas in uncontrolled airspace at low altitudes and includes routine visual line-of-sightoperations with remotely piloted aircraft systems up to 150 kilograms. Although distinct from the cancellation of the Exemption, Transport Canada has received substantial feedback from the Canadian model aircraft community that will be taken into consideration as it navigates next steps.  Transport Canada will continue to work with Model Aeronautics Association of Canada and the broader model aircraft community to determine appropriate next steps and facilitate the safe and legal use of Canadian airspace by its members. To date, no replacement application has been received from Model Aeronautics Association of Canada. Anyone may apply for an exemption at any time if they can demonstrate that their proposed operation is in the public interest and would not negatively affect aviation safety. For more information, please send an email to ExemptionsAviation@tc.gc.ca.   
BureaucracyRemotely piloted aircraft
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01841441-01841 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 26, 2023December 11, 2023June 7, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini officials have committed gross violations of human rights against thousands of Turks including eight current Turkish-Canadians;
  • Turkish officials are responsible for causing hundreds of deaths including the torturous murder of Gokhan Acikkollu;
  • Turkish officials have wrongfully detained over 300,000 peoples including prosecutors and judges with no reasons given; and
  • Several International Human Rights groups have confirmed gross human rights violations are happening in Turkey.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey;2) Place sanctions on the twelve Turkish officials who are responsible for gross human rights violations against eight current Canadians and the death of their friend Gokhan Acikkollu; and3) Call on the Turkish, Pakistani, and Bahraini governments to end all violations of human rights happening in their countries.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and international engagement.Canada is strongly committed to working with governments, as well as multilateral and non-governmental organizations, to promote inclusive and accountable governance around the world. Canada is consistently a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the advancement of democratic values.Canada’s leadership in the fight against arbitrary detention demonstrates its steadfast commitment to upholding universal human rights and the rules-based international order.The Government of Canada maintains an active and open dialogue with the Turkish, Pakistani and Bahraini Governments concerning human rights, as part of Canada’s commitment to promote democracy and uphold human rights and the rule of law globally.Global Affairs Canada officials met with the Turkish families that reported of their arrest in Pakistan and Bahrain and eventual detention in Türkiye, before moving to Canada. Global Affairs Canada officials have also received a submission from these families, requesting sanctions against specific Turkish officials in relation to their previous detention in Türkiye.Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order – sanctions are a key component of this approach. We also consider the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security, combatting corruption, and promoting respect for norms and values, including human rights. Canada carefully considers the bilateral consequences that any sanction measures could have. To that end, Global Affairs Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Wherever possible, Canada coordinates closely with likeminded allies, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, to maximize the effectiveness of sanctions.
BahrainCivil and human rightsForeign policyPakistanTurkey
44th Parliament229Not certifiedSeptember 29, 2023e-4437e-4437 (Citizenship and immigration)AndreiShmatkovMarkStrahlChilliwack—HopeConservativeBCJune 1, 2023, at 10:04 a.m. (EDT)September 29, 2023, at 10:04 a.m. (EDT)September 29, 2023Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:The current process for legalizing public documents for use abroad in Canada can be time-consuming, costly, and create barriers for individuals who need to present these documents in a timely manner, such as for employment, education, or legal matters;Joining the Hague Apostille Convention of 5 October 1961 would simplify the process of authenticating public documents for use abroad, reduce the time, cost, and administrative burden associated with legalizing public documents, and enhance Canada's reputation as a reliable and efficient partner in the global economy;Canada welcomes hundreds of thousands of new immigrants each year, and many of these individuals may need to present personal documents for use in their new country of residence; andJoining the Convention would also simplify the process for Canadian businesses that operate internationally and need to present legal documents in foreign countries.We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize accession to the Hague Apostille Convention of 5 October 1961, which aims to abolish the requirement of legalization for foreign public documents. We further call upon the Government of Canada to take the necessary steps to implement the Convention in Canada, in order to provide a fast and simple system for legalizing personal documents for newcomers, Canadian businesses, and other individuals who need to present these documents abroad.Agreements and contractsApostilleHague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01801441-01801 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023June 1, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, we announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.In the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. In 2022, our Government announced $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) helping municipalities and Indigenous communities to bolster gang-prevention programing to counter the social conditions that lead to criminality. In the Spring 2023, our Government announced $390 million in programs to provinces and territories under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $640 Million from 2022-2028. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of provincial/territorial initiatives, including support for prevention programs and law enforcement. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01577441-01577 (Foreign affairs)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONJune 21, 2023August 16, 2023June 16, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The illegitimate military junta in Burma continues to indiscriminately kill, torture, rape, imprison and displace civilians, particularly through air strikes, causing an increased need for vital humanitarian assistance;
  • Communications infrastructure within the country, often used to warn civilians of imminent attack, has been destroyed by the military;
  • The state-owned Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprises (MOGE) accounts for the majority of funding the military receives to commit human rights atrocities; and
  • Canada has outlined its own obligation to aid in the Myanmar crisis as reported in "Canada's strategy to respond to the Rohingya and Myanmar crises (2021 to 2024)" as well our commitment under the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) principle.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to:
  • Call on the military junta in Burma to immediately cease all executions, atrocities and human rights abuses against civilians;
  • Increase humanitarian aid into Burma, especially via local civil society organizations working cross-border from neighbouring countries, to more adequately address the needs of vulnerable communities;
  • Provide the technological and logistical support for communication infrastructure to establish early-warning systems and air defence systems to warn and protect civilians from aerial attacks, to save lives and prevent human rights abuses;
  • Call on insurance companies to stop providing insurance cover for deliveries of aviation fuel to Burma;
  • Impose sanctions against MOGE, including blocking direct and indirect oil and gas purchases that support the Burmese regime;
  • Swiftly implement the objectives set out in the aforementioned strategy and uphold our international obligation of R2P;
  • Refuse to engage or recognize the junta's State Administration Council (SAC) in any regional or international fora;
  • Promote ongoing dialogue among pro-democracy groups and diaspora groups, with a view to helping the Burmese people to develop an inclusive democracy with full recognition and representation of all ethnic minority communities, including Rohingya; and
  • Provide assistance to Burma's politicians and citizens to support the development of a federal democratic system and power sharing that would provide a solution for the country of multiethnic people who have been living together before the country could be called Burma.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has unequivocally condemned the February 2021 military coup against the democratically-elected government of Myanmar, and supports the people of Myanmar and their democratic aspirations in the face of brutality and egregious international human rights and humanitarian law violations. Canada continues to call for the cessation of violence and armed conflict; the release of all who are unjustly detained; immediate and unrestricted humanitarian access; and a halt on sales and transfer of arms, military equipment and technical support, which fuel the conflict and undermine stability in the country and the region. Canada is concerned by a growing humanitarian crisis, democratic and economic reversals, reports of egregious human rights and humanitarian law violations, and the potential for growing instability and insecurity in Myanmar, with implications for the region and diminished prospects for the safe, voluntary and dignified return for Rohingya currently in Bangladesh. Canada condemns escalating attacks against civilians, including airstrikes of populated and civilian areas with heavy weaponry, and the arbitrary detention, and deaths of civilians, all of which have deepened the humanitarian crisis.Canada is also concerned by the politicization of the judiciary and the precipitous decline in human rights protections and media freedoms. The erosion of the right to free, fair and impartial trials, and the resumption of capital punishment after a 30-year de-facto moratorium is of particular concern. Canada opposes the death penalty at all times, everywhere. Canada, along with international partners, condemned the execution of pro-democracy opposition leaders and supporters in 2022, underscoring that these actions exemplify the regime’s efforts to silence political opposition and exemplify blatant disregard for the upholding of human rights and the rule of law.Canada supports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) and its resolute efforts to address this crisis through the ASEAN Five-Point-Consensus, while remaining increasingly concerned by lack of progress on this agreement’s implementation in the face of the regime’s intransigence. Full and timely implementation of the Five-Point-Consensus remains critical as is ASEAN’s continued downgrading of Myanmar representation at ASEAN high-level meetings and fora.Responding to the interlinked Myanmar and Rohingya crises remains a priority for Canada. On June 20, 2022, Canada announced the second phase of its Strategy to respond to the Myanmar and Rohingya crises, dedicating $288.3 million over three years (2021-2024) to address the medium- and longer-term needs and human rights of Rohingya refugees and other conflict-affected populations in Myanmar. Of this amount, $83 million supports development programming in Myanmar; $145 million for development programming for Rohingya and host communities in Bangladesh; and $24 million for Peace and Stabilization Operations programming. The Strategy supports at-risk and affected populations in Myanmar and Bangladesh, particularly Rohingya refugees, internally displaced persons, and impacted host communities; intensifies efforts to advance an inclusive and sustainable peace in Myanmar; supports efforts to advance a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Myanmar, including engagement with pro-democracy stakeholders; and, increases pressure on malign actors, including through continued pursuit of accountability for human rights violations and targeted sanctions efforts.While ensuring that no funding or support is going to the regime, Canada continues to provide development and humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable, working through UN and civil society organizations, including local networks and alliance-based partners. Canada continues to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance for crisis-affected populations, in accordance with needs on the ground. For example, in 2022, Canada has contributed $10.3 million in immediate humanitarian assistance to address the needs of crisis-affected people in Myanmar, including support to the Rohingya population. Canada has also contributed $15.3 million in humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh, to help address the needs of Rohingya refugees. More recently, on June 1st, 2023 Canada announced $4 million in additional humanitarian assistance funding in Myanmar, and $1 million in funding for Bangladesh in response to Cyclone Mocha. Cross-border in Bangladesh, Canada continues to play a leading role in marshalling the response to the refugee crisis, leveraging a strong position on accountability and credibility as a top international donor.Canada has a legacy of support for democracy and federalism globally and in Myanmar, continuing to support the democratic aspirations of the Myanmar people and those who work peacefully to advance an inclusive democratic future. Canada engages with the range of pro-democracy stakeholders advancing and modeling a democratic peaceful and inclusive vision for Myanmar, including with high-level engagement such as the recent meeting between Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and a senior appointed representative of the National Unity Government of Myanmar. Canada is a steadfast supporter of the need to address the root causes in Myanmar that led to the violent expulsion of Rohingya refugees to Bangladesh, the coup, and decades of conflict with ethnic minority armed groups. The Government of Canada’s current Strategy and commitments are centred on the meaningful participation and diverse representation, including Rohingya, women and youth.Canada prioritizes ending impunity and ensuring accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations in Myanmar and justice for survivors, including Rohingya. Canada does this through support to the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), and our announced intention to intervene, with the Netherlands, in The Gambia’s case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. Canada strongly supported the historic United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution 2669 – Security Council Demands Immediate End of Violence in Myanmar, Urges Restraint, Release of Arbitrary Detained Prisoners (December 2022), and co-sponsored the United Nations Human Rights Council resolution A/HRC/52/L.19 - Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar (April 2023). At the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Prosecutor’s investigation into allegations of forced deportation as a crime against humanity has presented an opportunity for accountability, although Canada continues to call for the UNSC to refer the situation to the ICC, so that the commission of all serious international crimes under the Rome Statute can be investigated.Canada, in close coordination with international partners, has imposed seven rounds of sanctions since the coup as part of Canada’s commitment to support democracy and ending impunity in Myanmar, with the most recent on January 31, 2023. Canada’s sanctions are in direct response to the regime’s continued disregard for the human rights of the people of Myanmar and target senior members of the regime who are using their respective roles to abuse the rule of law and remove political opposition, thus contributing to a grave breach of international peace and the deteriorating security situation. Through these sanctions, Canada has also targeted arms and aviation fuel procurement, and was the first country to impose a prohibition on aviation fuel in respond to the regime’s continued targeting of civilians in violation of international law. Canada, alongside its international partners, will continue to respond to actions that constitute a grave breach of international peace and security, threaten stability in the region, and subvert the rights and dignity of Myanmar people. Canada will continue to monitor the situation, assessing the effectiveness of additional policy measures, taking further actions in coordination with our partners as the situation evolves.There is no immediate solution to this protracted crisis, and Canada acknowledges that an effective on-going response requires sustained effort, attention, commitment, and leadership on the part of Canada; the meaningful participation of Myanmar people, including Rohingya; and sustained coordination and engagement with key national, regional and international allies and partners. In this regard, we strongly welcome the petition and its calls for continued and strengthened engagement on the part of the Government of Canada.
Civil and human rightsForeign policyMyanmar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02025441-02025 (Transportation)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBJanuary 30, 2024March 18, 2024May 15, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned, residents of the Province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • There is a growing number of residents in capital region of Winnipeg that would like to see a direct flight from Winnipeg to India or at the very least, from Winnipeg to India via one stopover in a country in Europe;
  • The region surrounding Winnipeg including Manitoba, Western Ontario and Eastern Saskatchewan has also seen substantial growth of people of Indian heritage;
  • Winnipeg has in the past, had international flights direct from Winnipeg to cities in Europe; and
  • The overall population in the area that is served by the Winnipeg International Airport has grown considerably over recent years and is estimated at close to 2 million people.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Immediately consider how best to encourage and support direct international flights from Winnipeg to destinations in India and or any European countries that have direct flights to cities in India like Amritsar and New Delhi; and2. Promote airlines to address the need and work with the Winnipeg International Airport and other stakeholders to make these flights become a reality.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezThe Government of Canada takes note of the campaign advocating for direct flights between Winnipeg and India and is aware of the importance of this issue for many Canadians, including residents of Manitoba. The Government of Canada is responsible for negotiating bilateral air transport agreements with foreign governments. These agreements govern the operation of scheduled air services and provide the legal framework within which airlines make decisions based on their own commercial priorities, actual market demand, and the operational viability of routes. This is an important point as the locations that Canadian airlines decide to serve are business decisions.  The means by which the Government of Canada supports international air services is by ensuring that Canada's air transport agreements include the rights that airlines require to operate. The Government expanded its air transport agreement with India in 2022 and was able to remove limits on capacity (i.e., the number of flights that can be operated). Currently, Canadian air carriers can operate own-aircraft services to Bangalore (Bengaluru), Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai, while Indian air carriers can operate own-aircraft services to Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, Vancouver, and two additional points to be selected by India.  The Government of Canada remains interested in further expansion of the agreement, and Canadian Ministers and officials have raised Canada’s interest in access to additional points in India during meetings with their Indian counterparts.  The Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of International Trade, and the previous Minister of Transport have all met with their respective Indian counterparts and discussed, among other things, Canada’s interest in obtaining market access for direct air services to a greater number of cities in India (including in Punjab).  Canada’s High Commissioner to India also wrote to the Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, reiterating Canada’s interest in exchanging the right for Canada’s respective airlines to operate services to any point or points in the other country’s territory.  With respect to services operated via Europe, Canada’s air transport agreement with the United Kingdom and its agreement with the 27 Member States of the European Union, are very open, and permit airlines to operate from all cities in Canada to any destinations in the United Kingdom or the European Union. There are no impediments preventing Canadian, United Kingdom or European Union air carriers from serving Winnipeg. However, it is important to note that the Government of Canada does not determine which routes Canadian or foreign carriers serve as the decision is a commercial one made by airlines. It is also important to note that the rights of European airlines to serve points in India are set out in the air transport agreements between those carriers’ respective home countries and India. 
Air transportationIndiaWinnipeg
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01723441-01723 (Justice)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKOctober 4, 2023November 20, 2023May 16, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Government of Canada has announced plans for the mandatory purchase, or confiscation, of legally acquired firearms from law-abiding firearms retailers in Canada;
  • By the Prime Minister's own admission, the confiscation of "assault-style firearms" refers to hunting rifles and shotguns;
  • This program will confiscate firearms from legal gun owners rather than tackle gun smuggling across the Canada-US border and end a catch-and-release bail system that allows repeat violent offenders back on the streets; and
  • Confiscating the property of law-abiding farmers, hunters, and Indigenous peoples will not reduce violent crime in Canada.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to cancel its plans to confiscate the firearms of law-abiding farmers, hunters, and Indigenous peoples and instead introduce common-sense firearms policies that keep guns out of the hands of dangerous criminals.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.Too many Canadians have been affected by senseless acts of gun violence. Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities.To address this our Government is implementing a comprehensive approach to strengthen firearms control and tackle firearm-related violence across Canada, including comprehensive legislative reforms through Bill C-21, and over $1.3 billion in investments to strengthen community-based prevention and law enforcement capacity. This approach prioritizes public safety, reduces access to dangerous firearms, strengthens our border, and supports effective police work and community programming.  As part of this approach, on May 1, 2020, the Regulations Prescribing Certain Firearms and Other Weapons, Components and Parts of Weapons, Accessories, Cartridge Magazines, Ammunition and Projectiles as Prohibited, Restricted or Non-Restricted were amended to reclassify, and prohibit, approximately 1,500 models of firearms and their variants. The prohibition limits access to the most dangerous firearms.An Amnesty Order has been put in place to protect impacted owners from criminal liability, and to provide them with time to come into compliance with the law. Those who remain in possession of these firearms at the end of the amnesty period could be subject to criminal liability for unlawful possession.To support compliance with the law, the Government is committed to implementing a Firearms Buyback Program to ensure that the prohibited firearms are safely removed from our communities. The Government is designing a program that is user-friendly, safe, and efficient while also recognizing the interests of hunters, including Indigenous hunters. Canadians and businesses can expect fair compensation for participation in the Firearms Buyback Program, for use as they see fit, including buying other firearms. Impacted owners, especially Indigenous groups, will continue to be engaged to understand and appreciate their unique interests and ensure they are considered in the design and implementation of the Program.While the prohibition and the Firearms Buyback Program are key elements in the Government’s comprehensive approach, it is only one of a series of measures that the Government is taking to target firearms safety and reduce firearms violence and crime in this country.We are providing significant funding to help communities divert youth away from gang culture through the National Crime Prevention Strategy (NCPS), to date, the NCPS has invested approximately $565 million in support of 684crime prevention interventions. Through the NCPS, Public Safety Canada invests over $40 million annually in funding to community organizations to deliver culturally specific interventions that address the root causes of violence among youth and young people.Additionally, through the Youth Gang Prevention Fund (YGPF)we have invested $122.7 million and have supported 47 gang prevention and diversion projects. Further, on March 16, 2022, the Government announced $250 million through the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) which provides direct funding to municipalities and Indigenous communities to strengthen local efforts to counter the social conditions that lead to criminal behaviour. This funding builds on the $358.8 million over five years, allocated by the Government in 2018 under the Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence.In addition to providing funding to address the root causes of crime, the Government knows that the cross-border smuggling of firearms also poses a threat to the safety and security of Canadians.Through Budget 2021, our government invested  $656.1 million over five years for the CBSA to modernize our borders, including enhancing our ability to detect contraband and helping protect the integrity of our border infrastructure.In order to enhance our capabilities to trace crime guns we have made an investment of $15 million. This funding will support the RCMP in the development of a new national tracing database; increased outreach to law enforcement agencies on the strategic benefits of tracing to criminal investigation; and the establishment of a national network to detect straw purchasing and promote information sharing between law enforcement partners to counter firearms trafficking and smuggling.The RCMP has also introduced a new mandatory tracing policy that requires all RCMP seized guns to be submitted for tracing, and in March 2023 the CBSA and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that allows them to share information directly on files/intelligence development and actions/events occurring or expected to occur at the border, in support of efforts to identify, disrupt, and dismantle criminal efforts to smuggle firearms and their parts.It’s important to note that the cross-border smuggling of firearms are not the only source of firearms that are used for criminal activity. In 2020, 73% of firearms traced by the Canadian Firearms Program recovered in crime scenes or seized by police were deemed to be imported legally or manufactured within Canada. Despite legal acquisition, these firearms have ended up being used in criminal activities.Concurrently, through Bill C-21 our Government is  introducing tougher penalties for trafficking and smuggling offences.Finally, on May 16, 2023, the Government of Canada introduced Bill C-48 that proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would make targeted changes to the Criminal Code’s bail regime to address serious repeat violent offences with firearms, knives, bear spray and other weapons. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to address the enhanced risks posed by intimate partner violence. The proposed changes seek to improve the safety of people and communities across Canada.With these initiatives, the Government is taking concrete steps to make our country less vulnerable to firearms violence while being fair to responsible firearms owners and businesses.
Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01669441-01669 (Taxation)ArpanKhannaOxfordConservativeONSeptember 26, 2023November 9, 2023May 18, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Liberals imposed carbon tax will continue to drive up the cost of home heating for Canadians;
  • In Canada heating your home in the winter isn't a luxury - it's a necessity;
  • After eight years of this Liberal government Canadians now must decide whether to heat their home or put food on their table;
  • Never before in Canadian history have Canadians paid more in taxes than under this Liberal government; and
  • Inflation has caused massive increases to costs faced by non-profits and registered charities and further compounded by the carbon tax.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1) Cancel the tripling of the carbon tax on home heating;2) Ensure no new taxes on Canadians;3) Ensure that Canadians are being put first: their family, their paycheques, their home, and their future.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandSince taking office in 2015, the government's focus has been investing in the middle class, growing the economy, strengthening Canada's social safety net, and making life more affordable for Canadians. Key measures include:
  • Reversed the Conservative policy and restored the age of eligibility for Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) to 65, from 67, preventing 100,000 seniors aged 65 and 66 from plunging into severe poverty each year.
  • Increasing support for families and low-income workers through programs such as the Canada Child Benefit and the Canada Workers Benefit, which have helped lift over 1 million Canadians out of poverty since 2015.
  • Across Canada reduction of fees for regulated childcare of 50 percent on average, with six provinces and territories reducing childcare fees to $10 a day or less by April 2, 2023. In Saskatchewan, this amounts to an estimated savings of up to $6,900 per child.
  • Increasing the GIS top up benefit for low-income single seniors, enhancing the GIS earnings exemption, and increasing Old Age Security for approximately 3.3 million Canadians in July 2022.
  • Reducing taxes for the middle class from 22 percent to 20.5 percent, while raising taxes on the wealthiest Canadians. 
  • Increasing the basic personal amount – i.e., the basic amount of income that Canadians can earn before paying federal income tax – to $15,000, while phasing out the benefits of the increased basic personal amount for wealthy individuals.
In addition, the Government of Canada has provided targeted inflation relief to Canadians struggling with the impacts of global inflation, which has made the cost of living a real challenge. This includes direct, tax-free payments of up to $1,300 per child over two years to eligible families to cover dental expenses for their children under 12 and a doubling of the GST credit in the fall of 2022.Furthermore, the new onetime Grocery Rebate provided targeted inflation relief for 11 million low- and modest-income Canadians and families who need it most, with up to an extra $467 for eligible couples with two children; and up to an extra $234 for single Canadians without children. The Grocery Rebate was delivered to eligible Canadians on July 5, 2023, by direct deposit or cheque through the Canada Revenue Agency.Climate action is critical to Canada’s long-term- health and economic prosperity. Pollution pricing is widely recognized as effective and the most efficient means of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which is why the Government of Canada has made sure that it is no longer free to pollute in Canada.The federal price on pollution is revenue neutral for the government of Canada; the direct proceeds from the federal pollution pricing system remain in the province or territory where they are collected. Put simply, every dollar collected from the pollution price is returned.In provinces where the federal fuel charge applies, 90 percent of direct proceeds are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments. Most households receive more in CAI payments than the costs they face from the federal price on pollution, with low- and middle-income households benefitting the most, on average. The other 10 percent is used to support small and medium sized businesses and Indigenous groups.  Proceeds relating specifically to the use of natural gas and propane by farmers are returned directly to farmers via a refundable tax credit.This year, through quarterly payments, a family of four will receive: $1,544 in Alberta, $1,056 in Manitoba, $976 in Ontario, and $1,360 in Saskatchewan. Starting in July 2023 when federal carbon pricing begins to apply in Atlantic Canada, a family of four will receive 3 quarterly payments totaling: $984 in Newfoundland and Labrador, $744 in Nova Scotia, $720 in Price Edward Island, and $552 in New Brunswick (double payment in October). Residents of small and rural communities are entitled to a 10 per cent supplement beyond the base amount. Future years will contain 4 quarterly payments.On October 26, 2023, the government announced its intent to double the CAI rural top-up, from 10 to 20 percent, with increased payments to rural residents starting in April 2024. It also announced a proposed temporary, three-year pause of the fuel charge on deliveries of light fuel oil exclusively for use in providing heat to a home or building until the end of 2026-27.The government will continue to take action to support the middle class and make life more affordable for Canadians.
Carbon tax
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01566441-01566 (Environment)DanielBlaikieElmwood—TransconaNDPMBJune 16, 2023August 16, 2023May 18, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:Our economic and financial systems depend on a stable climate and the Bank of Canada recognizes that climate change poses significant risks to the financial system and the economy;Continued financial support for emissions-intensive activities increases future climate-related risks to the stability financial systems and the longterm interests of Canadians;There has been no significant legislative action on the matter in Canada despite international developments legislating the climate and finance nexus which risks leaving Canada behind; andBill S-243, An Act to enact the Climate-Aligned Finance Act was drafted based on consultation with national and international experts so as to enable Canada to leapfrog from laggard to leader on aligning financial flows with climate commitments.Therefore, we, the undersigned, Citizens and Residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to enact the principal concepts of the Climate-Aligned Finance Act which would:1) Establish a duty for directors and officers of federal financial institutions to align with climate commitments;2) Align purposes of crown corporations and departments, including market oversight by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, with climate commitments;3) Require the development of action plans, targets and progress reports on meeting climate commitments through annual reporting requirements; 4) Ensure climate expertise on certain boards of directors and avoid conflicts of interest;5) Make capital adequacy requirements proportional to microprudential and macroprudential climate risks generated by financial institutions; 6) Require a government action plan to align all financial products with climate commitments; and7) Mandate timely public review processes on implementation progress to ensure iterative learning.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about climate-aligned finance in Canada.Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy and net-zero emissions by 2050 will require substantial investment beyond the public sector. Private sector capital and expertise will be needed to meet Canada’s climate objectives and create a climate-resilient economy.Developing sustainable finance in Canada will promote the long-term growth and stability of Canada’s financial system. It will also create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and investors.In May 2021, the Government of Canada launched the Sustainable Finance Action Council (SFAC) to help lead the Canadian financial sector towards integrating sustainable finance into standard industry practice. The SFAC is chaired by Kathy Bardswick and comprises 25 Canadian deposit-taking institutions, insurance companies and pensions funds, with combined assets of over $10 trillion.The SFAC’s Terms of Reference call on it to provide financial sector input to the Government of Canada on the development of foundational market infrastructure, including enhancing climate disclosure, defining green and transition investment, and improving climate data and analytics. More recently, in Budget 2022, the Government of Canada asked the SFAC to develop and report on strategies for aligning private sector capital with the net-zero transition, with support from the Canadian Climate Institute and in collaboration with the Net-Zero Advisory Body.The council’s early emphasis has been on enhancing climate-related financial disclosures in Canada’s private sector. The SFAC has also worked on taxonomy, and, late in 2022, submitted the Taxonomy Roadmap Report to the Government of Canada, which sets out its advice on the design, governance, and implementation of a Canadian green and transition finance taxonomy. The Government of Canada is studying the Report’s advice, and there will be continued collaboration with the SFAC and other financial sector leaders on taxonomy.The Government of Canada is making important progress in meeting its Budget 2022 commitment to move towards mandatory reporting of climate-related financial risks across a broad spectrum of the Canadian economy, based on the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations.
Climate change and global warmingFinancial institutions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01629441-01629 (Foreign affairs)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCSeptember 20, 2023November 3, 2023May 30, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA WHEREAS:
  • Worldwide there are nearly half a million recipients of a United Kingdom (UK) state pension that is “frozen” at the same amount as when it is first received – i.e. a pension lacking an annual cost of living increase;
  • The UK is the only OECD country in the world to discriminate based on country of residence for providing annual inflationary increases to pension payments;
  • This policy is discriminatory and unevenly applied: recipients residing in the United States of America (numbering approximately 127,000) receive “unfrozen” pensions, while the pensions of recipients in Canada (approx. 128,000) are “frozen.”;
  • The Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners have long advocated for unfreezing UK state pension payments;
  • The Government of Canada is not proactively addressing this matter, with the former Minister for Seniors stating, “Canada remains prepared to engage with UK officials should they choose to reconsider their non-indexation policy,” April 2021. The Canada-United Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement (Canada-UK TCA) came into force on April 1, 2021 - required following Brexit, the Canada-UK TCA primarily rolls-over of the Canada-Europe Trade Agreement, and a new agreement is expected; and
  • Any future Canada-UK trade agreement must include a reciprocal social service section with an “unfrozen” pension policy ensuring ex-patriot British pensioners have 'equal rights' and are not discriminated against.
THEREFORE: We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to ensure any future Canada-UK trade agreement unfreeze UK state pensions paid to Canadian recipients, and that the relevant Ministers provide regular updates on these efforts to the Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners.
Response by the Minister of Labour and SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Terry SheehanUnder UK law, UK State Pensions are paid anywhere in the world. For many UK pensioners living in countries outside the UK, including in Canada, pensions are not adjusted for increases in the cost of living. Pensions are paid at the same rate as when pensioners became entitled, or the date they left the UK if they were already pensioners.Over the years, the Government of Canada has sought to address this issue with the UK, including by proposing that the two countries negotiate a comprehensive social security agreement (SSA) that would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. To date, the UK has maintained its long-standing position that it cannot consider the indexation of UK pensions paid into Canada.The UK policy of non-indexation is codified in UK domestic law. A bilateral agreement with Canada is not required if the UK chooses to pay indexed pensions into Canada.In 2020, the British Secretariat of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Frozen British Pensions launched an inquiry regarding the impact of the UK Government’s approach to UK State Pensions paid to UK pensioners living abroad. The final report was released in December 2020. The Government of Canada presented a submission on the issue regarding the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada, for the APPG’s consideration. The submission is consistent with Canada’s position of support for UK pensioners living in Canada.In November 2020, Employment and Social Development Canada officials wrote to the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions, seeking their interest in concluding a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK. UK officials declined the request, but noted they would continue to consider this matter carefully.In March 2021, motions were presented in both the House of Commons in Canada and the UK regarding the UK’s non-indexation policy, urging the UK to negotiate a SSA with Canada that would allow for the indexation of pensions. This showcases the continued support to resolve this long-standing issue.In June 2021, the Minister of Seniors, in her capacity as the Minister responsible for concluding SSAs on behalf of the Government of Canada, sent a letter to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions, to formally request the conclusion of a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK, which would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. No response was received from the UK Government.In April 2022, the Minister of Seniors met with the British High Commissioner to Canada, to reiterate Canada’s longstanding position that UK pensioners who live in Canada should be recognized for the contributions they have made to society and should be treated equally, regardless of where they live. The British High Commissioner re-confirmed that the UK Government had no plans to change its current policy.In June and October 2022, the Minister of Seniors wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions to reiterate Canada’s request to conclude a comprehensive bilateral SSA that would provide for the eligibility of benefits and the payment of indexed UK pensions. The UK Minister for Pensions and Financial Inclusion responded to the letter of June 2022, re-confirming that the UK Government had no plans to change its current policy. No response was received from the UK Government to the letter of October 2022.In April 2023, the Minister of Labour, met with the UK Minister for Employment. The Minister of Labour raised the issue of the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada. The UK Minister for Employment noted the concern of the Minister, however, he re-confirmed that the UK Government has no plans to change its current policy.Also in April 2023, the Minister of Seniors together with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade, requesting her assistance in encouraging the UK government to resolve this issue. To date, no response has been received from the UK GovernmentNegotiations towards a comprehensive Canada-UK Free Trade Agreement are focused on advancing specific trade-related issues. Canada’s negotiating objectives were tabled in Parliament in 2022 and were informed by extensive public consultations across Canada.The Government of Canada will continue to raise this issue with the UK through various channels, where appropriate.
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuUnder UK law, UK State Pensions are paid anywhere in the world. For many UK pensioners living in countries outside the UK, including in Canada, pensions are not adjusted for increases in the cost of living. Pensions are paid at the same rate as when pensioners became entitled, or the date they left the UK if they were already pensioners.Over the years, the Government of Canada has sought to address this issue with the UK, including by proposing that the two countries negotiate a comprehensive social security agreement (SSA) that would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. To date, the UK has maintained its long-standing position that it cannot consider the indexation of UK pensions paid into Canada.The UK policy of non-indexation is codified in UK domestic law. A bilateral agreement with Canada is not required if the UK chooses to pay indexed pensions into Canada.In 2020, the British Secretariat of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Frozen British Pensions launched an inquiry regarding the impact of the UK Government’s approach to UK State Pensions paid to UK pensioners living abroad. The final report was released in December 2020. The Government of Canada presented a submission on the issue regarding the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada, for the APPG’s consideration. The submission is consistent with Canada’s position of support for UK pensioners living in Canada.In November 2020, Employment and Social Development Canada officials wrote to the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions, seeking their interest in concluding a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK. UK officials declined the request, but noted they would continue to consider this matter carefully.In March 2021, motions were presented in both the House of Commons in Canada and the UK regarding the UK’s non-indexation policy, urging the UK to negotiate a SSA with Canada that would allow for the indexation of pensions. This showcases the continued support to resolve this long-standing issue.In June 2021, the Minister of Seniors, in her capacity as the Minister responsible for concluding SSAs on behalf of the Government of Canada, sent a letter to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions, to formally request the conclusion of a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK, which would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. No response was received from the UK Government.In April 2022, the Minister of Seniors met with the British High Commissioner to Canada, to reiterate Canada’s longstanding position that UK pensioners who live in Canada should be recognized for the contributions they have made to society and should be treated equally, regardless of where they live. The British High Commissioner re-confirmed that the UK Government had no plans to change its current policy.In June and October 2022, the Minister of Seniors wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions to reiterate Canada’s request to conclude a comprehensive bilateral SSA that would provide for the eligibility of benefits and the payment of indexed UK pensions. The UK Minister for Pensions and Financial Inclusion responded to the letter of June 2022, re-confirming that the UK Government had no plans to change its current policy. No response was received from the UK Government to the letter of October 2022.In April 2023, the Minister of Labour, met with the UK Minister for Employment. The Minister of Labour raised the issue of the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada. The UK Minister for Employment noted the concern of the Minister, however, he re-confirmed that the UK Government has no plans to change its current policy.Also in April 2023, the Minister of Seniors together with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade, requesting her assistance in encouraging the UK government to resolve this issue. To date, no response has been received from the UK Government.Negotiations towards a comprehensive Canada-UK Free Trade Agreement are focused on advancing specific trade-related issues. Canada’s negotiating objectives were tabled in Parliament in 2022 and were informed by extensive public consultations across Canada.The Government of Canada will continue to raise this issue with the UK through various channels, where appropriate.
International relationsPension indexationReciprocal social security agreementsUnited Kingdom
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01444441-01444 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONMay 11, 2023August 16, 2023April 19, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history.Firearms violence is a complex issue affecting Canadians in both urban and rural settings and implicates various types of firearms. As part of a comprehensive approach to address gun violence and strengthen gun laws in Canada, the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and, since its introduction, the Government has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.Despite a long history of handgun regulation in Canada, handgun violence continues to inflict significant damage to Canadians and communities. Handguns are the weapon of choice in most firearm-related crimes, which is why limiting the number of handguns is a critical part of the Government’s plan to protect Canadians from gun violence. In order to strengthen handgun control across Canada, Bill C-21 includes measures that would essentially cap the domestic lawful handgun market in Canada by freezing the sale, purchase, or transfer of handguns by individuals within Canada and prevent individuals from bringing newly acquired firearms into Canada. The freeze on the sale, purchase or transfer of handguns by individuals within Canada, and on the importation of newly acquired handguns into Canada, came into force by regulatory amendments pursuant to the Firearms Act on October 21, 2022.Bill C-21 puts the safety of Canadians first by recognizing that handgun use is appropriate in some situations and providing for limited exceptions from the national freeze on handguns.When Bill C-21 was introduced, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns in society, and were withdrawn to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1, 2023 took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measures to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from entering Canada were announced. In addition to proposed amendments, the government also announced its intention to re-establish the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee, and through regulations, require that manufacturers seek a Firearms Reference Table number before being allowed to sell in Canada.On May 12, 2023, the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (SECU) adopted the revised amendments to Bill C-21. The proposed measures would add a new prospective technical definition to the definition of “prohibited firearm” in the Criminal Code;  address the growing threat of illegally manufactured firearms, otherwise known as “ghost guns”; and include a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we are committed to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture.Our Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada. This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.With these initiatives, the Government is taking concrete steps to our country less vulnerable to firearms violence while being fair to responsible firearms owners and businesses.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023441-01351441-01351 (Environment)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONApril 26, 2023June 9, 2023April 21, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:Our economic and financial systems depend on a stable climate and the Bank of Canada recognizes that climate change poses significant risks to the financial system and the economy;Continued financial support for emissions-intensive activities increases future climate-related risks to the stability financial systems and the longterm interests of Canadians;There has been no significant legislative action on the matter in Canada despite international developments legislating the climate and finance nexus which risks leaving Canada behind; andBill S-243, An Act to enact the Climate-Aligned Finance Act was drafted based on consultation with national and international experts so as to enable Canada to leapfrog from laggard to leader on aligning financial flows with climate commitments.Therefore, we, the undersigned, Citizens and Residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to enact the principal concepts of the Climate-Aligned Finance Act which would:1) Establish a duty for directors and officers of federal financial institutions to align with climate commitments;2) Align purposes of crown corporations and departments, including market oversight by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, with climate commitments;3) Require the development of action plans, targets and progress reports on meeting climate commitments through annual reporting requirements; 4) Ensure climate expertise on certain boards of directors and avoid conflicts of interest;5) Make capital adequacy requirements proportional to microprudential and macroprudential climate risks generated by financial institutions; 6) Require a government action plan to align all financial products with climate commitments; and7) Mandate timely public review processes on implementation progress to ensure iterative learning.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about climate-aligned finance in Canada.Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy and net-zero emissions by 2050 will require substantial investment beyond the public sector. Private sector capital and expertise will be needed to meet Canada’s climate objectives and create a climate-resilient economy.Developing sustainable finance in Canada will promote the long-term growth and stability of Canada’s financial system. It will also create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and investors.In May 2021, the Government of Canada launched the Sustainable Finance Action Council (SFAC) to help lead the Canadian financial sector towards integrating sustainable finance into standard industry practice. The SFAC is chaired by Kathy Bardswick and comprises 25 Canadian deposit-taking institutions, insurance companies and pensions funds, with combined assets of over $10 trillion.The SFAC’s Terms of Reference call on it to provide financial sector input to the Government of Canada on the development of foundational market infrastructure, including enhancing climate disclosure, defining green and transition investment, and improving climate data and analytics. More recently, in Budget 2022, the Government of Canada asked the SFAC to develop and report on strategies for aligning private sector capital with the net-zero transition, with support from the Canadian Climate Institute and in collaboration with the Net-Zero Advisory Body.As part of the SFAC’s governance structure, an Official Sector Coordinating Group was established that includes participants of the policy and regulatory community connected to sustainable finance, including the Department of Finance Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Bank of Canada, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), and provincial securities and prudential regulators.The SFAC has played an important role in convening representatives from Canada’s financial sector to engage on market infrastructure issues and to provide its expert advice to the Government of Canada. In the course of its work, it has engaged with a range of domestic and international stakeholders on sustainable finance to exchange views and ensure that its advice is comprehensive and consistent with best practices.At the Government of Canada’s request, the SFAC has prioritized work on climate disclosures. Soon after launch, the SFAC provided initial perspectives on how to enhance climate disclosures, and then provided a submission to the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) setting out its views on the ISSB’s draft global disclosure standards on climate and sustainability reporting. The SFAC has also prepared advice on how to effectively implement the Government of Canada’s commitment to move towards mandating climate disclosure across a broad spectrum of the Canadian economy.The SFAC has also worked on taxonomy, and, late in 2022, submitted the Taxonomy Roadmap Report to the Government of Canada, which sets out its advice on the design, governance, and implementation of a Canadian green and transition finance taxonomy. The Government of Canada is studying the Report’s advice, and there will be continued collaboration with the SFAC and other financial sector leaders on taxonomy.The Government of Canada is making important progress in meeting its Budget 2022 commitment to move towards mandatory reporting of climate-related financial risks across a broad spectrum of the Canadian economy, based on the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations.On March 7, 2023, OSFI published final Guideline B-15: Climate Risk Management (Guideline), which sets out OSFI’s expectations for the management and disclosure of climate-related risks by federally regulated financial institutions (FRFIs). The Guideline aims to support FRFIs in developing greater resilience to, and management of, climate risks. The Guideline will apply to more than 350 federally regulated banks and insurers. OSFI’s expectations relating to climate will be integrated with OSFI’s new Supervisory Framework. The Guideline includes expectations relating to:
  • Governance and accountability over FRFI climate risk management;
  • The need to understand the impact of climate-related risks on the FRFI business model and strategy, including implementation of a climate transition plan;
  • FRFI risk management practices, including the use of climate scenarios to identify and manage current and potential future impacts of climate risks;
  • The need to assess the potential impacts of climate-related risks on capital and liquidity; and,
  • Disclosure expectations aligned with the TCFD framework, which will be updated to consider final ISSB climate-related disclosure standards.
In addition to climate-related reporting by FRFIs required pursuant to the Guideline, in Budget 2021, the Government of Canada announced that federal Crown corporations would adopt the TCFD framework, or more rigorous climate-related financial disclosure standards applicable to the public sector, as an element of their corporate reporting. Implementation is well underway. In Budget 2022, the Government of Canada also committed to moving forward with requirements for disclosure of environmental, social and governance considerations, including climate-related risks, for federally regulated pension plans. Provincial and territorial securities regulators are also acting in this area. They have published a draft climate disclosure rule for public companies, which is expected to be finalized once there is greater certainty about the direction of similar rules in major capital markets jurisdictions.Globally, the Government of Canada is a strong supporter of the ISSB and provided funding for the ISSB’s Montreal Centre, which was launched in June 2022. The ISSB’s aim is to develop a comprehensive global baseline of high-quality sustainability disclosures to meet investors’ information needs. The ISSB is expected to publish its first standards in 2023 on climate and general sustainability reporting. In June 2022, Canada’s accounting, audit and assurance standards oversight councils announced the establishment of the Canadian Sustainability Standards Board, which, among other things, is expected to provide Canadian input on ISSB standards and adopt ISSB standards for use in Canada.In March 2022, the Government of Canada also released the federal Green Bond Framework and subsequently issued its first green bond, worth $5 billion. This issuance was, and remains, the largest single green bond issuance in the Canadian market. In fulfilling the requirements of Canada’s Green Bond Framework, the Government of Canada issued its first allocation report on March 28, 2023, showing how the proceeds from the green bond were allocated.Additionally, the government has committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies—and has recently accelerated the previous timeline for doing so from 2025 to 2023. In Budget 2022, the government announced its intent to eliminate the flow-through share regime for fossil fuel sector activities. This change took effect on April 1, 2023.
Climate change and global warmingFinancial institutions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2023441-01313441-01313 (Foreign affairs)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCApril 19, 2023June 2, 2023April 18, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:
  • Pensioners are losing tens of thousands of dollars over the course of their retirement;
  • With the current inflation crisis, many seniors are having trouble making ends meet;
  • Canada is second only to Australia in its number of UK pensioners with around 144,000 UK retirees;
  • The indexation of the pensions is entirely dependent on specific agreements between countries, and Canada does not have an indexing agreement with the UK;
  • British pensioners living in places such as the US and Jamaica and the European Union receive their full UK state pension which is annually uprated - as these countries have reciprocal social security agreements with the UK;
  • Even UK citizens who are now living in Canada who continued to pay into their pensions while living outside of the UK do not have an indexed pension;
  • Pensions are deferred wages and they must be able to support the people who rely on them;
  • For some seniors, the lost income can mean a retirement of poverty; and
  • It is estimated the frozen British pensions cost the Canadian economy close to $1 billion annually, according to The Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners.
Therefore, We, the undersigned, Citizens and Residents of Canada call upon the Government of Canada to negotiate an end to the cost-of-living index freeze by the Government of the United Kingdom for recipients of the British State Pension who live in Canada.
Response by the Minister of SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Darren FisherUnder UK law, UK State Pensions are paid anywhere in the world. For many UK pensioners living in countries outside the UK, including in Canada, pensions are not adjusted for increases in the cost of living. Pensions are paid at the same rate as when pensioners became entitled, or the date they left the UK if they were already pensioners.Over the years, the Government of Canada has sought to address this issue with the UK, including by proposing that the two countries negotiate a comprehensive social security agreement (SSA) that would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. To date, the UK has maintained its long-standing position that it cannot consider the indexation of UK pensions paid into Canada.The UK policy of non-indexation is codified in UK domestic law. A bilateral agreement with Canada is not required if the UK chooses to pay indexed pensions into Canada. In 2020, the British Secretariat of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Frozen British Pensions launched an inquiry regarding the impact of the UK Government’s approach to UK State Pensions paid to UK pensioners living abroad. The final report was released in December 2020. The Government of Canada presented a submission on the issue regarding the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada, for the APPG’s consideration. The submission is consistent with Canada’s position of support for UK pensioners living in Canada.In November 2020, Employment and Social Development Canada officials wrote to the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions, seeking their interest in concluding a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK.In March 2021, motions were presented in both the House of Commons in Canada and the UK  regarding the UK’s non-indexation policy, urging the UK to negotiate a SSA with Canada that would allow for the indexation of pensions. In June 2021, the former Minister of Seniors, in her capacity as the Minister responsible for concluding SSAs on behalf of the Government of Canada, sent a letter to the UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, to formally request the conclusion of a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK, which would provide for the indexation of UK pensions.In April 2022, the Minister of Seniors met with the British High Commissioner to Canada, to reiterate Canada’s longstanding position that UK pensioners who live in Canada should be recognized for the contributions they have made to society and should be treated equally, regardless of where they live.In June and October 2022, the Minister of Seniors wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions to reiterate Canada’s request to conclude a comprehensive bilateral SSA that would provide for the eligibility of benefits and the payment of indexed UK pensions.Most recently in April 2023, the Minister of Seniors together with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department of Business and Trade, encouraging her assistance on resolving this high priority issue for the Government of Canada.The Government of Canada will continue to raise this issue with the UK through various channels, where appropriate. 
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Arif ViraniUnder UK law, UK State Pensions are paid anywhere in the world. For many UK pensioners living in countries outside the UK, including in Canada, pensions are not adjusted for increases in the cost of living. Pensions are paid at the same rate as when pensioners became entitled, or the date they left the UK if they were already pensioners.Over the years, the Government of Canada has sought to address this issue with the UK, including by proposing that the two countries negotiate a comprehensive social security agreement (SSA) that would provide for the indexation of UK pensions. To date, the UK has maintained its long-standing position that it cannot consider the indexation of UK pensions paid into Canada.The UK policy of non-indexation is codified in UK domestic law. A bilateral agreement with Canada is not required if the UK chooses to pay indexed pensions into Canada.In 2020, the British Secretariat of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Frozen British Pensions   launched an inquiry regarding the impact of the UK Government’s approach to UK State Pensions paid to UK pensioners living abroad. The final report was released in December 2020. The Government of Canada presented a submission on the issue regarding the non-indexation of UK pensions paid in Canada, for the APPG’s consideration. The submission is consistent with Canada’s position of support for UK pensioners living in Canada.In November 2020, Employment and Social Development Canada officials wrote to the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions, seeking their interest in concluding a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK.In March 2021, motions were presented in both the House of Commons in Canada and the UK regarding the UK’s non-indexation policy, urging the UK to negotiate a SSA with Canada that would allow for the indexation of pensions.In June 2021, the former Minister of Seniors, in her capacity as the Minister responsible for concluding SSAs on behalf of the Government of Canada, sent a letter to the UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, to formally request the conclusion of a comprehensive SSA between Canada and the UK, which would provide for the indexation of UK pensions.In April 2022, the Minister of Seniors, met with the British High Commissioner to Canada, to reiterate Canada’s longstanding position that UK pensioners who live in Canada should be recognized for the contributions they have made to society and should be treated equally, regardless of where they live.In June and October 2022, the Minister of Seniors, wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions to reiterate Canada’s request to conclude a comprehensive bilateral SSA that would provide for the eligibility of benefits and the payment of indexed UK pensions.Most recently in April 2023, the Minister of Seniors together with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, wrote to the UK Secretary of State for the Department of Business and Trade, encouraging her assistance on resolving this high priority issue for the Government of Canada.The Government of Canada will continue to raise this issue with the UK through various channels, where appropriate.
Pension indexationUnited Kingdom
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01534441-01534 (Justice)DanMuysFlamborough—GlanbrookConservativeONJune 13, 2023July 19, 2023March 21, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01623441-01623 (Citizenship and immigration)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023May 9, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • As the illegal, unprovoked full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine is still ongoing, the Ukrainian newcomers in Canada are in need of support from the Canadian Government;
  • The Ukrainians who fled to Canada on the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) are unable to apply for the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program that provides youth aged 15-30 in Canada with paid work experiences that will help prepare them for when they are ready to enter the workforce; and
  • The youth from Ukraine are facing unique barriers and need the Government of Canada's assistance in developing and improving their skills so that they can be confident and contributing members of our communities.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to allow Ukrainian youth under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) to apply for jobs under the CSJ program.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada is steadfast in its commitment to help Ukrainians and their family members seeking a safe haven in Canada. Since the introduction of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) in March 2022, Canada has welcomed over 181,000 individuals under this program. The Government of Canada has implemented a number of support measures to help these individuals settle in Canada, including providing temporary accommodations for up to 14 nights to eligible clients, offering one-time transitional financial assistance to help eligible CUAET holders meet their immediate needs, as well as extending access to federally-funded settlement services to all Ukrainian temporary residents. In 2022, three federally-organized charter flights helped nearly 1,000 Ukrainians and their family members travel to Canada. In addition, CUAET holders are eligible for a free open work permit or study permit, which allows them to take a job with almost any Canadian employer or enroll in an education program in Canada.Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has also supported the Government’s efforts for Ukraine by establishing Jobs for Ukraine, a dedicated channel on the Job Bank website for Canadian employers who wish to provide jobs to Ukrainian nationals in Canada. It has also supported those arriving to obtain a Social Insurance Number to work in Canada.The Government supports labour market programs that foster greater inclusion of underrepresented groups, such as youth, persons with disabilities, Indigenous people, Black Canadians and other racialized groups. The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) provides flexible and holistic services to help all young Canadians to develop the skills and gain paid work experience to successfully transition into the labour market. Canada Summer Jobs is a program under YESS that provides wage subsidies to employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public sector, and private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees, to create quality summer job placements for young people aged 15 to 30 years. Canada Summer Jobs is currently oversubscribed as domestic need continues to exceed available resources in the context of helping young Canadians transition into the labour market. As such, eligibility under the Terms and Conditions of the program remains focused on Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or those granted refugee status in Canada. While this does not include temporary residents, recent immigrants are eligible if they are Canadian Citizens or permanent residents.The Department continues to work closely with Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada, one of 12 YESS federal partners, in delivering programs that help reduce systemic barriers for equity-deserving youth, including recent immigrants and newcomers, to gain the skills, abilities, and experience they need to enter the Canadian labour market.
Canada Summer JobsPassports and visasUkraineWork permits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 13, 2023441-01394441-01394 (Citizenship and immigration)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 1, 2023June 13, 2023April 25, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • As the illegal, unprovoked full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine is still ongoing, the Ukrainian newcomers in Canada are in need of support from the Canadian Government;
  • The Ukrainians who fled to Canada on the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) are unable to apply for the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program that provides youth aged 15-30 in Canada with paid work experiences that will help prepare them for when they are ready to enter the workforce; and
  • The youth from Ukraine are facing unique barriers and need the Government of Canada's assistance in developing and improving their skills so that they can be confident and contributing members of our communities.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to allow Ukrainian youth under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) to apply for jobs under the CSJ program.
Response by the Minister of Housing and Diversity and InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada is steadfast in its commitment to help Ukrainians and their family members seeking a safe haven in Canada. Since the introduction of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) in March 2022, Canada has welcomed over 151,000 individuals under this program. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has implemented a number of support measures to help these individuals settle in Canada, including providing temporary accommodations for up to 14 nights to eligible clients, offering one-time transitional financial assistance to help eligible CUAET holders meet their immediate needs, as well as extending access to federally-funded settlement services to all Ukrainian temporary residents. In 2022, three federally-organized charter flights helped nearly 1,000 Ukrainians and their family members travel to Canada. In addition, CUAET holders are eligible for a free open work permit or study permit, which allows them to take a job with almost any Canadian employer or enroll in an education program in Canada.Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has also supported the Government’s efforts for Ukraine by establishing Jobs for Ukraine, a dedicated channel on the Job Bank website for Canadian employers who wish to provide jobs to Ukrainian nationals in Canada. It has also supported those arriving to obtain a Social Insurance Number to work in Canada.The Government supports labour market programs that foster greater inclusion of underrepresented groups, such as youth, persons with disabilities, Indigenous people, Black Canadians and other racialized groups. The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) provides flexible and holistic services to help all young Canadians to develop the skills and gain paid work experience to successfully transition into the labour market. Canada Summer Jobs is a program under YESS that provides wage subsidies to employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public sector, and private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees, to create quality summer job placements for young people aged 15 to 30 years. Canada Summer Jobs is currently oversubscribed as domestic need continues to exceed available resources in the context of helping young Canadians transition into the labour market. As such, eligibility under the Terms and Conditions of the program remains focused on Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or those granted refugee status in Canada. While this does not include temporary residents, recent immigrants are eligible if they are Canadian Citizens or permanent residents.The Department continues to work closely with Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada, one of 12 YESS federal partners, in delivering programs that help reduce systemic barriers for equity-deserving youth, including recent immigrants and newcomers, to gain the skills, abilities, and experience they need to enter the Canadian labour market.  
Canada Summer JobsPassports and visasUkraineWork permits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 13, 2023441-01392441-01392 (Citizenship and immigration)JamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—EastmanConservativeMBMay 1, 2023June 13, 2023April 25, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • As the illegal, unprovoked full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine is still ongoing, the Ukrainian newcomers in Canada are in need of support from the Canadian Government;
  • The Ukrainians who fled to Canada on the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) are unable to apply for the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program that provides youth aged 15-30 in Canada with paid work experiences that will help prepare them for when they are ready to enter the workforce; and
  • The youth from Ukraine are facing unique barriers and need the Government of Canada's assistance in developing and improving their skills so that they can be confident and contributing members of our communities.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to allow Ukrainian youth under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) to apply for jobs under the CSJ program.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada is steadfast in its commitment to help Ukrainians and their family members seeking a safe haven in Canada. Since the introduction of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) in March 2022, Canada has welcomed over 151,000 individuals under this program. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has implemented a number of support measures to help these individuals settle in Canada, including providing temporary accommodations for up to 14 nights to eligible clients, offering one-time transitional financial assistance to help eligible CUAET holders meet their immediate needs, as well as extending access to federally-funded settlement services to all Ukrainian temporary residents. In 2022, three federally-organized charter flights helped nearly 1,000 Ukrainians and their family members travel to Canada. In addition, CUAET holders are eligible for a free open work permit or study permit, which allows them to take a job with almost any Canadian employer or enroll in an education program in Canada.Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has also supported the Government’s efforts for Ukraine by establishing Jobs for Ukraine, a dedicated channel on the Job Bank website for Canadian employers who wish to provide jobs to Ukrainian nationals in Canada. It has also supported those arriving to obtain a Social Insurance Number to work in Canada.The Government supports labour market programs that foster greater inclusion of underrepresented groups, such as youth, persons with disabilities, Indigenous people, Black Canadians and other racialized groups. The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) provides flexible and holistic services to help all young Canadians to develop the skills and gain paid work experience to successfully transition into the labour market. Canada Summer Jobs is a program under YESS that provides wage subsidies to employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public sector, and private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees, to create quality summer job placements for young people aged 15 to 30 years. Canada Summer Jobs is currently oversubscribed as domestic need continues to exceed available resources in the context of helping young Canadians transition into the labour market. As such, eligibility under the Terms and Conditions of the program remains focused on Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or those granted refugee status in Canada. While this does not include temporary residents, recent immigrants are eligible if they are Canadian Citizens or permanent residents.The Department continues to work closely with Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada, one of 12 YESS federal partners, in delivering programs that help reduce systemic barriers for equity-deserving youth, including recent immigrants and newcomers, to gain the skills, abilities, and experience they need to enter the Canadian labour market.
Canada Summer JobsPassports and visasUkraineWork permits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 29, 2023441-01759441-01759 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 16, 2023November 29, 2023March 14, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence - can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;Whereas the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence - including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Whereas Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Whereas online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights;Whereas anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andWhereas online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is a very important issue, and the Government is currently developing its approach to protecting children to ensure they can engage safely online.As stated in the 2021 mandate letters to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and the Minister of Justice, the Government is committed to developing and introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content to protect Canadians, and hold online platforms accountable for the content they host. The Government is working hard to meet these commitments and aims to introduce legislation as soon as possible. The Government has conducted extensive consultations with experts, citizens, civil society, and other stakeholders to this end. It has heard from a diverse set of views and intends to draw on those insights when drafting legislation. It has heard a strong consensus for protecting children and youth from harm online– and that this needs to be balanced against other priorities, like protections for freedom of expression and privacy rights. The Government has also heard support for a risk-based approach to online safety; the need to hold online platforms accountable to a standard for responsible action; the need for more transparency; and the need for better tools to empower users on these platforms. Finally, it has heard that there is a need to confront child sexual abuse material content, and to mitigate the risks associated with exposing children and youth to such content.                                                                                                                                                                                                  The Government has also been looking at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.Lessons learned from other jurisdictions as well as the advice received from each stream of engagement are contributing to the development online safety legislation in Canada. Summaries for consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.html Overall, the Government is committed to putting in place a legislative and regulatory framework that will hold large online platforms accountable for protecting their users, including children and youth, from the risk of exposure to a range of harmful content. People in Canada, especially children and youth, deserve safer and more inclusive online experiences.   
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 24, 2023441-01177441-01177 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCMarch 9, 2023April 24, 2023March 1, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • The federal government has introduced Bill C-21, which includes sections prohibiting the majority of replica firearms, such as Airsoft guns, and embedding in legislation Order in Council P.C. 2020-298 of May 1, 2020 which prohibits and limits the possession of firearms listed therein;
  • Bill C-21 will criminalize hundreds of thousands of law-abiding Canadians for possessing legally obtained firearms;
  • Bill C-21 will financially devastate thousands of Canadians reliant on the sale of firearms for all or part of their income;
  • Hunting has a longstanding history in Canada, for both Indigenous and non-indigenous Canadians, and needlessly revoking citizens' firearms erases and discounts our history and traditions; and
  • The vast majority of gun crimes are committed with illegally obtained firearms, and confiscating firearms from law abiding citizens does nothing to stop dangerous criminals and gangs who obtain their guns illegally.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to stop targeting law abiding citizens for possessing legally obtained firearms, to protect the rights and freedoms of Canadians by ensuring firearms legislation is based on evidence not ideology, and to withdraw Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.As part of a comprehensive approach to address firearms violence and control, the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns.On February 3, 2023, the Government withdrew these amendments to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we are committed to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 5, 2023441-01319441-01319 (Citizenship and immigration)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABApril 21, 2023June 5, 2023March 16, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, draw the attention of the house to the following:Whereas:
  • In the last 130 years, the Hazara ethnic group has faced genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing in Afghanistan;
  • With the fall of the Afghan government in August 2021, the Taliban taking over the control of Afghanistan, Hazaras once again found themselves in the situation they faced in 1998-2001, massacre, arrest, forced mass displacement, and confiscation of Hazaras' land;
  • The Taliban Regime is responsible for the massacre and genocide of Hazaras. Taliban gunmen were directly involved in executing Hazaras and forcing them to leave their homelands; and
  • The government of Canada, as part of the international communities, has an obligation to promote justice for Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Recognize the ongoing genocide and persecution of Hazaras and call upon the Government of Canada to prioritize Hazaras coming to Canada as part of the 40,000 target of Afghani refugees.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada remains firmly committed to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada is being fulfilled through several pathways, including a humanitarian program focused on resettling women, LGBTQ2 people, human rights defenders, journalists and members of religious and ethnic minorities. As of April 28, 2023, we have welcomed 30,455 vulnerable Afghans to Canada.The Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Hazaras and other religious and ethnic minority communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.Through the commitment, the Government of Canada has created public policies to resettle persecuted Hazaras including: the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the minister of IRCC under Operation Afghan Safety on November 22, 2021 and the public policy for the resettlement of certain Afghan nationals selected by the Minister of IRCC – Hazara Afghan nationals on December 23, 2021.We are working with our partners, both internationally and within the Government of Canada, to find comprehensive solutions, as we know many persecuted minorities remain in Afghanistan. There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan that compromise our ability to ensure the safety and security of our clients and our staff. Protection and promotion of human rights both at home and abroad remain a priority for the Government of Canada, and we will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on the Departmental website at #WelcomeAfghans: Key figures - Canada.caThe Department’s public policies may be consulted on the Departmental website at Public policies - Canada.ca.
AfghanistanAsylumFreedom of conscience and religionHazaras
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 12, 2023441-01366441-01366 (Justice)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONApril 27, 2023June 12, 2023March 20, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Bill C-21 is an afront to the private property rights of Canadians;
  • The historically-grounded right to own firearms has been reaffirmed under Canadian common law;
  • The bill unfairly targets hunters, recreational sport-shooters, and law-abiding firearm owners;
  • Bill C-21 does nothing to combat illegal gun smuggling or violent gun crime; and
  • The Liberal-NDP coalition are unnecessarily restricting the rights of law-abiding firearm owners.
Therefore, we the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon House of Commons to vote against Bill C-21.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced. From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we arecommitted to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.Bill C-21 passed Third Reading in the House of Commons on May 18, 2023. It has now been referred to the Senate and the government looks forward to its speedy passage.No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence. The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence. This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01839441-01839 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 26, 2023December 11, 2023March 2, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is a very important issue, and the Government is currently developing its approach to protecting children to ensure they can engage safely online.As stated in the 2021 mandate letters to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and the Minister of Justice, the Government is committed to developing and introducing legislation to combat serious forms of harmful online content to protect Canadians, and hold online platforms accountable for the content they host. The Government is working hard to meet these commitments and aims to introduce legislation as soon as possible. The Government has conducted extensive consultations with experts, citizens, civil society, and other stakeholders to this end. It has heard from a diverse set of views and intends to draw on those insights when drafting legislation. It has heard a strong consensus for protecting children and youth from harm online– and that this needs to be balanced against other priorities, like protections for freedom of expression and privacy rights. The Government has also heard support for a risk-based approach to online safety; the need to hold online platforms accountable to a standard for responsible action; the need for more transparency; and the need for better tools to empower users on these platforms. Finally, it has heard that there is a need to confront child sexual abuse material content, and to mitigate the risks associated with exposing children and youth to such content.The Government has also been looking at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.Lessons learned from other jurisdictions as well as the advice received from each stream of engagement are contributing to the development online safety legislation in Canada. Summaries for consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.html Overall, the Government is committed to putting in place a legislative and regulatory framework that will hold large online platforms accountable for protecting their users, including children and youth, from the risk of exposure to a range of harmful content. People in Canada, especially children and youth, deserve safer and more inclusive online experiences.   
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01675441-01675 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS:Given current ecological, social and economic crises, our collective future depends on all levels of government and Canadians to make informed and responsible decisions regarding environment and sustainability matters;We have entered an age whereby human impact is approaching many ecological system boundaries such as fresh water usage, atmospheric pollution, and extinction of species;The current state of environmental education in Canada is inadequate to address these challenges and empower citizens to understand the complexity of the issues and take effective action; and The government of Canada should provide coherent national leadership in environmental and sustainability education and recognize the importance of Indigenous Knowledges and practices in the education of Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the House of Commons to take a leadership role in enacting a Canadian strategy that supports educators, communicators, community leaders, as well as provincial and municipal governments to take actions that result in healthy, sustainable, and flourishing human and ecological communities.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Minister of the Environment and Climate Change has a mandate to provide Canadians with environmental information in the public interest and promote and encourage practices and conduct that help to preserve the environment, in cooperation with partners such as provincial governments, Indigenous peoples, not-for-profit organizations, academic institutions and others to advance this mission. Last year, the Minister was also mandated by the Prime Minister to engage with Canadians to better communicate the impact of climate change. Environmental education is critical to tackling the environmental challenges Canada is facing today and will face tomorrow. It is also an important part of Canada’s international commitments. Canada is actively engaged in the work of Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). ACE emphasizes the importance of education to address the climate crisis and promote sustainability. Its overarching goal is to empower people to engage in climate action through education, training, public awareness, public participation, public access to information, and international cooperation on these issues. It also emphasizes the importance of youth voices in climate change action.These obligations are taken very seriously, and the Department recognizes that more needs to be done to improve access to climate and environmental education. The views expressed in this petition will be taken under consideration.In Canada, provinces and territories are responsible for organizing, delivering, and assessing all levels of education. The Government of Canada contributes to sustainability knowledge and education through various means including by undertaking and funding critical research that provides the foundation for environmental and sustainability education; working with and providing funding and support to diverse partners across Canada in support of this mission, and leading the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.Information, Research and Science The Government of Canada has conducted a national assessment process of how and why Canada’s climate is changing. This assessment discusses the impacts of these changes on communities, environment, and the economy, and details how Canadians are adapting. A series of reports that followed the national assessment raise awareness of the issues facing the country and provide information to Canadians to support sound decisions and actions that address climate change and adapt to its impacts.The Government of Canada is also implementing the Roadmap for Open Science. This will make the scientific research process more inclusive and accessible to scientists and Canadians by making data and publications open and making research understandable and useful. In addition, the Government of Canada is developing a climate data strategy to ensure that the private sector and communities have access to data to inform planning and infrastructure investments.At Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the Canadian Centre for Climate Services provides information to improve Canadians’ understanding of how the climate is changing and how those changes could affect them, as well as guidance and resources to make climate-smart decisions.The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators program publishes high-quality indicators that provide Canadians with information on Canada's performance on environmental sustainability issues including climate change, water quality and availability, and species at risk.Research shows that Canadians trust scientists. To leverage its scientific resources, ECCC has developed a pilot program, in French and English, which helps its scientists, researchers and science experts to become better science communicators and harness storytelling and presentation techniques to reach and motivate more Canadians to take environmental and climate action. Once trained, these experts are connected to the Canadian public through a network of schools, museums, science centres as well as non-governmental organizations.Working with Partners The Program of Applied Research on Climate Action in Canada (PARCA) https://impact.canada.ca/en/behavioural-science/parca is a multi-year program of research on climate change, running from September 2021 to March 2024. It is a partnership between Environment and Climate Change Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Privy Council Office’s Impact and Innovation Unit. PARCA is using behavioural science for an evidenced-based, data-driven approach to understanding what drives choices and behaviours and what barriers stand in the way of greater climate and environmental action. This will help point the way to more impactful interventions by factoring in actual behaviour. Behaviourally informed solutions will be tested online and then in the real world for their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate adaptation at the individual and community levels. This work will generate new insights on a rapid timeframe and use them to inform policy development, program design, and communications. A large network of internal and external partners, including partners at multilateral organizations and an advisory committee of subject matter experts, are guiding the research program to help ensure its relevance, rigour, and impact. PARCA data pointed directly to the need for the kinds of partnerships ECCC is developing to build climate literacy.Youth have an important role to play in climate action. Today’s youth and future generations will face the gravest environmental and climate consequences. The youth population is also particularly susceptible to mis- and dis-information. Meaningful youth engagement and education in environment and climate action is essential in building a more sustainable future. That is why the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council (ECCYC) was formed in August 2022. The ECCYC is a group of young Canadians who are passionate about protecting the environment and taking climate action. They have been selected to advise on key environmental and climate issues to inform decisions by the Government of Canada. The ECCYC is engaged on the Government’s climate communication and education initiatives and plays an important role in connecting with diverse community, national and international networks to help mobilize youth for climate action.The Government of Canada also contributes to sustainability knowledge and education by funding research through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.In addition, ECCC’s EcoAction Community Funding Program provides financial support to non-profit and non-government organizations for Canadian communities to take on local action-based projects that produce measurable and positive effects on the environment and to build their capacity to sustain these activities in the future. EcoAction funds projects that lead to tangible environmental results, engage the community to improve the environment, increase environmental awareness and capacity in communities, and result in sustainable outcomes and engagement following project completion.The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a specified purpose account administered by ECCC, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to direct funds received from fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment. EDF funding is available for projects that address one or more of the program’s priority areas. Priority is given to projects that restore the natural environment and conserve wildlife, improve environmental quality, undertake research and development on environmental restoration and improve and/or advance education and awareness on issues affecting the health of the natural environment. This could include, for example, promoting education related to environmental damage restoration, including training for the assessment and restoration of damage, or for increased awareness and compliance with environmental regulations.ECCC set up two Grants and Contributions programs with different sources of funding to address the need for better access to environmental education across the country.For fiscal years 2022- 2024, recipients have received or are set to receive funding to advance environmental literacy by 1) supporting teacher training programs, 2) improving access to environmental educational resources, and 3) conducting further research to generate evidence-based solutions for environmental education in Canada.On October 4, 2023, a call for proposals was launched for a new and innovative Environmental Literacy Funding program. ECCC is partnering with philanthropic organizations to support projects that can increase environmental literacy in young Canadians. Strong collaborations with trusted partners in the field can help make long-term gains in tackling climate change and biodiversity loss. ECCC’s $12.5 million investment will be bolstered by interested philanthropic organizations wanting to team up on long-term solutions to tackle climate change. A minimum of $2.5 million of the $12.5 million envelope will be dedicated to Indigenous-led initiatives.ECCC has been engaging stakeholders for the past 2 years focusing on environmental learning. Besides setting up two working groups, one for Provinces and Territories and the other for other science-based Government of Canada Departments, the department has also met with national and international experts, NGOs, youth, formal and non-formal education professionals. Three daylong dialogue days bringing together key actors from diverse sectors (youth and children, education, academia, NGOs, government, museums and science centres, etc) were held between December 2022 and August 2023. ECCC also funded a Youth Climate Lab to conduct policy research with youth on environmental literacy. Key conclusions emerging from these consultations were that nearly every aspect of a young person’s future will be affected by climate – their jobs, their homes, energy use, transportation, food, water, health, and more, and that environmental literacy is a key mitigation and adaptation solution to climate change and biodiversity loss. ECCC has drafted a discussion paper to work toward a Pan-Canadian Framework on Environmental Learning that will be posted for consultation on consultation.gc.ca later this year. Indigenous communities and youth will also be consulted. A “What we heard” report will be drafted and presented to key stakeholders to help the drafting of the Framework in 2024.ECCC also works regularly with other federal partners to ensure sustained public communications about the various programs and incentives available to Canadians to support their environmental actions. ECCC is also developing a long-term multi-faceted social marketing campaign that will aim to provide Canadians with clear, consistent, and evidence-informed information about the environment and climate change. This campaign is expected to launch at the end of 2023.Federal Sustainable Development Strategy The Government of Canada provides federal leadership on environmental and sustainability issues through the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, as detailed in the Federal Sustainable Development Act. Key aspects of this work are openness and transparency in providing information about sustainability in Canada. The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy brings the federal government’s sustainable development priorities, goals, targets and actions together in one place and enables parliamentarians and Canadians to track progress.All federal organizations subject to the Federal Sustainable Development Act are also required to develop a Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy every three years and report on its progress. These documents provide specific details on all departments’ plans and actions that advance sustainable development in Canada.As is stated by the Federal Sustainable Development Act, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of involving Indigenous peoples in developing the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy given their Traditional Knowledge and unique understanding of, and connection to, Canada’s lands and waters. Indigenous youth will inherit the results of Canada’s sustainable development efforts. It is critical that no future generation of Indigenous youth is “left behind”. 
Environmental protectionSustainable communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01237441-01237 (Foreign affairs)CarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingNDPONMarch 30, 2023May 15, 2023February 6, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Falun Gong practitioners have been the largest and most severely persecuted group in China since July 1999 for their spiritual belief in "Truth-Compassion-Forbearance", and in 2006, allegations emerged of large scale murder of Falun Gong practitioners for their organs;Canadian lawyers David Matas and David Kilgour have compiled more than 50 pieces of evidence and concluded the regime and its agencies in numerous parts of China have put to death a large number of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience. Their vital organs were seized involuntarily for sale at high prices;The Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) has got about 1.5 million petition signatures from over 50 countries and presented to United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in November 2013;On December 12, 2013, the European Parliament adopted an urgent resolution which asked for an end to the forced organ harvesting in China; andDemocratic nations have a responsibility to condemn such atrocities, wherever they occur.Therefore we, the undersigned request the Canadian government to:a) Condemn the Chinese Communist Party's crime of systematically murdering Falun Gong practitioners for their organs; andb) Publicly call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong in China.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, including Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.On December 14, 2022, Bill S-223 regarding organ harvesting and trafficking, which parliamentarians have linked to Uyghurs and Falun Dafa practitioners in China, was adopted unanimously at third reading in the House of Commons by a vote of 324-0. Bill S-223 then received Royal Assent the following day. Bill S-223 makes it a criminal offence for a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident to go abroad to receive an organ taken from someone who did not give informed consent to the removal of the organ. Canada joins jurisdictions such as the UK, Italy, Israel, Belgium, Norway, Spain, and South Korea and Taiwan that have passed legislation to combat forced organ harvesting, organ transplant tourism, and organ trafficking.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.Furthermore, Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits, public statements, representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, interventions and advocacy by its diplomatic missions, and outreach to civil society.  The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.  This includes regular meetings with Canadian civil society organizations focused on the situation of human rights in China. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on November 21, 2022.The Government’s newly released Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) also directly outlines Canada’s approach to China. China’s rise as a global actor is reshaping the strategic outlook of every state in the region, including Canada. The third pillar of the IPS specifically invests in people, development, and the defense of human rights in the Indo-Pacific region. Canada will never apologize for pursuing its national interests, which includes upholding global rules that govern human rights.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2023441-01464441-01464 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 17, 2023June 20, 2023February 6, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C clearly communicates that the future of humanity is at risk without “rapid and far-reaching” changes to mitigate a 1.5°C temperature rise in the next 11 years and to achieve zero emissions by 2050;
  • Canada is on course to significantly overshoot our 2030 Paris Agreement target (Auditor General's Report 2018) with oil and gas and transportation emissions continuing to rise (Government of Canada);
  • The World Health Organization has clearly stated that “climate change is the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century”; and
  • The health impacts from climate change, including lung disease, heat-related illness, spread of infectious diseases, displacement, famine, drought, and mental health impacts, are being felt in Canada and abroad and are expected to accelerate across our planet at an unprecedented rate threatening "human lives and viability of the national health systems they depend on” (Lancet Countdown 2018, Lancet Countdown Briefing for Canadian Policymakers, 2018).
We, the undersigned, Physician Mothers of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Act upon the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment “Call to Action on Climate Change and Health” report (February 5, 2019), which has clearly outlined specific measures towards zero emissions;
  • Prioritize the elimination of emissions and preservation of a healthy environment as part of every portfolio and in every decision made by our federal and provincial parties;
  • Implement a nationwide carbon pricing strategy;
  • Commit to the rapid elimination of fossil fuels and coal from our economy;
  • Commit to rapid incorporation of green energy and net-zero infrastructure across the country; and
  • Eliminate single use plastics.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe science is clear that accelerated efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, are necessary in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The economics are clear too – to build a strong, resilient, economy for generations to come, we must harness the power of a cleaner future.The Government of Canada recognizes this reality, and since 2015 has taken significant, ambitious steps to reduce emissions, protect the environment, spur clean technologies and innovation, and help Canadians and communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.In 2016, the Government of Canada developed the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, in collaboration with provinces and territories, and with input from Indigenous peoples. Building on this national effort, the Government of Canada released its Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, in December 2020, to deepen emissions reductions across the economy, create new, well-paying jobs, make life more affordable for households, and build a better future.In 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (the Act) provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on these commitments. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Act  also holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Act,  Canada published the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target, including a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Measures introduced by the Government of Canada since 2015 include:
  • Bringing into force the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act ensuring that every Canadian jurisdiction has a price on carbon. The price on carbon pollution started at $20 per tonne of emissions in 2019 – and has been rising at a predictable rate of $10 per year to reach $50 in 2022. Starting in 2023, the price will start rising by $15 per year until it reaches $170 per tonne in 2030;
  • Committing to accelerate our G20 commitment to eliminate inefficient fossil fuel subsidies from 2023 to 2025, and develop a plan to phase out public financing of the fossil fuel sector including by federal Crown corporations;
  • Accelerating the phase-out of coal-fired electricity generation, and positioning the oil and gas sector to cut pollution by working with stakeholders to implement a cap on oil and gas sector emissions;
  • Building Canada’s renewable electricity future by continuing to advance the Clean Electricity Standard to enable Canada to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035, and making significant investments to support renewable electricity and grid modernization projects;
  • Helping to reduce energy costs for homes and buildings, and boosting climate resiliency;
  • Driving progress on clean cars and trucks through investments in zero-emission vehicles charging and refueling infrastructure, and the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program;
  • Establishing of the Canadian Center for Climate Services which provides climate information and support to help Canadians consider climate change in their decisions, including health-related adaptation decisions via the collaborative climate information portal, ClimateData.ca; and,
  • Developing a climate lens to integrate climate considerations throughout Government of Canada decision-making.
Furthermore, the Government of Canada is taking a multi-faceted approach towards zero plastic waste and the transition to a circular economy focused on eliminating plastic pollution at its source and on keeping plastics in the economy and out of the environment.The Government has developed a management framework for single-use plastics that provides a transparent and evidence-based approach to monitoring risks to the environment posed by single-use plastics. The framework includes four criteria to determine if a single-use plastic should be banned: if the item is prevalent in the environment, poses a threat of harm (e.g., to wildlife and their habitat), is difficult to recycle, and has readily available alternatives. Using these criteria, the Government identified six categories of single-use plastics, and on June 22, 2022, published the Single-use Plastics Prohibition Regulations. These Regulations prohibit the manufacture, import and sale of checkout bags, cutlery, foodservice ware made from or containing problematic plastics, ring carriers, stir sticks, and straws. Single-use plastic flexible straws will remain available, under certain conditions, to allow continued access to those who require them for health and accessibility reasons. The Government is also developing regulations to require that all plastic packaging in Canada contain at least 50% recycled content by 2030. The same regulations will also include labelling rules that prohibit the use of the chasing-arrows symbol unless 80% of Canada’s recycling facilities accept, and have reliable end markets for, these products. Working with provinces and territories, the Government will also implement and enforce an ambitious recycling target of 90% for plastic beverage containers. The Government has also committed to supporting provincial and territorial producer responsibility efforts by establishing a plastics registry that would report annually on plastics in the Canadian economy.Actions such as these, as well as ongoing efforts with provinces and territories to ensure that producers are responsible for the cost of managing their plastic waste, will help address the issue of plastic pollution from single use plastics.The Government of Canada also recognizes that a more ambitious, strategic and collaborative approach is required to adapt to the impacts of climate change including higher temperatures, variable precipitation patterns, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, severe floods, wildfires, drought, and other extreme weather events. Working with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, Indigenous peoples and other key partners and stakeholders, the federal government is developing Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy. This Strategy will advance a shared vision for climate resilience and provide a blueprint for whole-of-society action to help communities and residents of Canada better adapt to and prepare for the impacts of climate change.These and other historic commitments aim to increase Canada’s climate and environmental ambition, and to help people living in Canada be more resilient to climate impacts. These commitments will benefit all Canadians, in particular those groups that are disproportionately affected by the negative effects of climate change including children, low-income communities, seniors, and Indigenous peoples.    
Canadian Association of Physicians for the EnvironmentCarbon pricingFossil fuelsGreenhouse gasesPlasticsRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02144441-02144 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 12, 2024March 22, 2024February 2, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 5, 2023441-01322441-01322 (Health)RachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverNDPBCApril 21, 2023June 5, 2023November 30, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:Over 29,000 Canadians have died due to apparent opioid toxicity between January 2016 and December 2021. Those who have died as a result of the preventable drug toxicity crisis were loved and valued citizens of this country: our children, siblings, spouses, parents, family members, clients, friends; andCanada's current drug policies have proven to be ineffective in the prevention of substance use and exacerbate substance use harms and risks. The "war on drugs" has resulted in widespread stigma towards those who use controlled substances. The "war on drugs" has allowed organized crime to be the sole provider of most controlled substances. Problematic substance use is a health issue and that cannot be resolved through criminalizing personal possession and consumption. Decriminalization of personal possession is associated with significantly reducing drug toxicity deaths in the countries that have adopted progressive drug policy reforms.Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Reform drug policy to decriminalize simple possession of drugs listed in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;2. Provide a path for expungement of conviction records for those convicted of simple possession; and3. With urgency, implement a health-based National Strategy for providing access to a regulated safer supply of drugs and expand trauma-informed treatment, recovery, and harm reduction services, and public education and awareness campaigns throughout Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary Anandasangaree1. Bill C-5, An Act to Amend the Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, received Royal Assent and came into force on November 17, 2022. The Bill aims to ensure that responses to criminal offences are fair and effective, while ensuring that public safety is maintained. The amendments to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) reinforce the Government’s commitment to address the ongoing opioid crisis by providing space to treat substance use as a health issue, rather than as a criminal one. The law now requires police and prosecutors to consider options  such as issuing a warning, or divert people to treatment programs or other supportive services instead of proceeding with charges for simple drug possession, and enacts for the first time in the CDSA a declaration of principles to guide them in exercising discretion.2. Bill C-5 further addresses the stigma associated with having a criminal record by: (1) limiting the kind of information that may be kept in the police record of warning or referrals and the use that can be made of such records, as well as to whom these records may be disclosed; and, (2) providing that past and future records of convictions for this offence be kept separate and apart from other records of convictions after a certain period of time.3. The 2018 Expungement of Historically Unjust Convictions Act provides that the Governor in Council may list an offence as eligible for expungement if the activity no longer constitutes an offence, and the criminalization of the activity was a historical injustice. Bill C-5 did not repeal the offence of simple drug possession.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.The Government continues to deliver on its promise to work toward removing the stigma associated with convictions for simple possession of drugs.Expungement is intended for cases where the criminalization of an activity constitutes a historical injustice because, among other things, were it to occur today, it would be inconsistent with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Expungement was not intended to address changing societal norms, such as the legalization of cannabis or health and social issues such as the ongoing opioid crisis.However, originally introduced in Parliament on December 7, 2021, Bill C-5, an Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), was amended in September 2022 to address concerns about the ongoing stigma associated with a record of convictions for simple possession of drugs. It now specifies that past convictions under section 4(1) of the CDSA for possession of controlled drugs must be kept separate and apart from other criminal convictions within two years of the Bill’s coming into force. For convictions after the coming into force, the record of conviction must be kept separate and apart from other criminal convictions two years following sentence completion. This amendment is consistent with the underlying objective of the Bill to address the negative consequences associated with simple possession. The amendment acknowledges the calls from public health organizations and those who work with individuals with addictions. It helps address barriers to successful reintegration into society and also helps address a contributing cause of the ongoing opioid crisis, namely the stigmatization of people who use drugs. Bill C-5 received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022.Criminal records have a lasting impact on the ability of rehabilitated individuals to successfully reintegrate into society after overcoming personal challenges in their lives. Treating simple possession of drugs as a health and social issue means eliminating the stigma associated with convictions for simple possession.Public Safety Canada continues to work with other departments, including Health Canada and the Department of Justice, to support the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, and address the national drug crisis as part of its mandate to keep cities and communities safe.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe toxic drug and overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the crisis has only become more complex due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience (PWLLE), to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis as a health issue and is working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives.The Government of Canada recognizes that substance use is a public health issue, not an issue for the criminal justice system. We are committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant actions and made commitments of more than $1 billion to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • Close to $500 million through the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) since 2017 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services; and,
  • $45 million to develop national standards for mental health and substance use services, in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations and key stakeholders, to address long-standing challenges in the delivery of mental health and substance use services and supports across the country; and,
  • $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction.
Budget 2023 proposes to provide a total of $359.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $5.7 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to support a renewed Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, which would guide the government's work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians. This includes:
  • $144 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Health Canada for the Substance Use and Addictions Program to fund community-based supports, including safer supply, supervised consumption sites, and other evidence-based health interventions;
  • $20.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada for a new community-based program to prevent substance use among young people; 
  • $73.9 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $4.6 million ongoing, to Health Canada to streamline authorizations for supervised consumption sites and drug checking services, scale-up access to safer supply, and evaluate innovative approaches;
  • $50.8 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $1.1 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to Health Canada; and $16 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada to support vital data collection on substance-related harms and lab-based analysis of the illegal drug supply;
  • $4.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Safety Canada to develop an overdose monitoring app for paramedics and other first responders; and,
  • $42 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police; $6.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Services and Procurement Canada; and $1.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, sourced from existing resources, to Global Affairs Canada to take further action to work with our partners to tackle drug trafficking and stem the global flow of these devastating substances.
Of note, under SUAP, more than $26 million has been allocated to fund Naloxone distribution, education and training. In addition, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches for greater access to pharmaceutical-grade alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of May 2023, Health Canada has supported 31 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through SUAP representing total funding commitments of over $100 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects, and a National Safer Supply Community of Practice to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.Health Canada has supported the rapid expansion of supervised consumption services across Canada. Since January 2016, the number of federally approved supervised consumption sites offering services has grown from 1 to 40. Health Canada also proactively issued exemptions that allows provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing supervised consumption sites, shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Urgent Public Health Need Sites, unlike supervised consumption sites, are temporary locations that can be set up rapidly to address the overdose crisis. Both share the goal of reducing overdose deaths.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment and safer supply programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder; as well facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and  
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
The Government recognizes that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments to ensure that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.The Government of Canada is also working closely with provinces and territories to change the way our healthcare system delivers mental health and substance use services to Canadians. It is important for Canadians to have timely access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, quality mental health and substance use services that meet their needs, including underserved and equity-deserving individuals. That is why, on February 7, 2023, the Prime Minister announced that the federal government will invest $198.6 billion over ten years to bolster the health care system, notably: top-ups to the Canada Health Transfer to address immediate health care pressures; and $25 billion over 10 years to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements.In response to substance use harms and the opioid overdose crisis, the Government of Canada is regularly consulting with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. The Government regularly engages with PWLLE and organizations that represent them, including; regular bi-lateral meetings with key organizations; participation on projects teams; facilitating PWLLE engagement in government and ministerial events and meaningful consultations in order to better understand their perspectives of substance use; and, on-the- ground realities (e.g., roundtables, Knowledge Exchange Series, etc.).Health Canada established the PWLLE Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners.The Government of Canada continues collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, stakeholders and partners such as community-based organizations to reduce the harms associated with substance use and providing people with the culturally appropriate and trauma-informed support they need.Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of personal drug possession can, increase risks of overdose and other harms, increase barriers to care and perpetuate stigma. Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments encourage police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the CDSA to reflect the Government’s public-health-focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada directing prosecutors that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for the personal possession of drugs, except where public safety concerns arise.In May 2022, at the request of the Province of British Columbia, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health granted a time-limited exemption under the CDSA so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, where appropriate, individuals may be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they could also receive assistance to connect with those services. British Columbia requested this exemption, and it is an additional way that the federal government is supporting the province’s comprehensive approach to the overdose crisis. This time-limited exemption will be supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes. The results will help inform Canada’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance use harms. We have also received a request from Toronto Public Health, and we are working in close partnership to ensure both public health and public safety considerations are included. We will continue to work with willing jurisdictions to use all the tools at our disposal, including approaches related to decriminalization, to respond to this crisis.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abusePublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01621441-01621 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023December 12, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians are committed to upholding the protection of international human rights;Canadians recognize that ethnic, religious, and other minority groups are routinely targeted around the world by human rights violators; andBill C-281, the International Human Rights Act, seeks to add additional protection against human rights violations and promote a stronger role for Parliament in that fight.Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to quickly adopt Bill C-281, the International Human Rights Act.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada is consistently a strong voice for the promotion and protection of human rights which is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Human rights are indivisible, universal and interdependent; they are inherent to everyone regardless of their race, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, ethnicity, religion or other identifying factors.Canada works with a range of partners, bilaterally and multilaterally, to support other countries in upholding their human rights commitments and advance accountability for human rights violations. Canada also continuously strives to further promote and protect human rights at home, in keeping with fundamental commitments contained in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and its many international obligations.The fight against all forms of systemic racism and discrimination requires ongoing commitment and cooperation. The engagement from members of all parties during the study of Bill C-281 by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development is a positive sign in that respect. The Government looks forward to continuing to monitor the progress of the bill which has passed through the House of Commons and is, at this present time, in its second reading in the Senate.
C-281, An Act to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act, the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (Sergei Magnitsky Law), the Broadcasting Act and the Prohibiting Cluster Munitions ActCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 30, 2023441-01142441-01142 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 14, 2023March 30, 2023December 20, 2022Petition to the House of Commons Whereas:1. The Canada Health Act provides a framework to insure Canada would have a world class health care system based on five fundamental principles;2. The five principles include public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility;3. Both the Federal and Provincial Governments have a responsibility to insure there is a sense of equity in fairness of services no matter where a person lives in Canada; and4. Extra attention should be given to issues like mental health, cancer care, long term care, recognizing immigrant healthcare workers and ways to improve and expand our healthcare services in general.We, the undersigned residents of the Province of Manitoba, call upon the Government of Canada to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to insure quality healthcare services in all regions of Canada.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Canada Health Act, Canada’s federal health care insurance legislation, aims to ensure that all eligible residents of Canadian provinces and territories have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital, physician, and surgical-dental services that require a hospital setting (i.e., insured health services) on a prepaid basis, without charges related to the provision of insured health care services.The Act sets out the criteria and conditions related to medically necessary insured health services that the provinces and territories must fulfill to receive the full federal cash contribution available under the Canada Health Transfer (CHT). These criteria are public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility.While the federal government plays a role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes setting their own priorities, administering their health care budgets, and managing their own resources.The Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments to strengthen health care systems to ensure they continue to meet the needs of Canadians and has taken leadership in engaging with the jurisdictions to address key health care priorities.Most recently, On February 7,2023, the Prime Minister and his provincial and territorial counterparts discussed actions needed to improve the health care system while adapting to the changing needs of Canadians.The government put forward a comprehensive plan to improve the health care system – to chart a path forward together. The plan is supported by a significant investment of $198.6 billion over 10 years, including $46.2 billion in new funding to provinces and territories, which Premiers have accepted. This funding will be distributed partly through the Canada Health Transfer and partly through tailor-made bilateral agreements with provinces and territories that allow for flexibility for jurisdictional health care system needs. This funding includes the following elements:
  • An immediate, unconditional $2 billion CHT top-up to address immediate pressures on the health care system, especially in pediatric hospitals and emergency rooms, and long wait times for surgeries;
  • A 5 per cent CHT guarantee for the next five years, which will be provided through annual top-up payments as required;
  • $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in the four areas of shared priority;
  • $1.7 billion over five years to support hourly wage increases for personal support workers and related professions, as federal, provincial and territorial governments work together on how best to support recruitment and retention; and,
  • $175 million over five years for the Territorial Health Investment Fund in recognition of medical travel and the cost of delivering health care in the territories.
In addition, the government will work with Indigenous partners to provide additional support for Indigenous health priorities, with $2 billion over 10 years to address the unique challenges Indigenous Peoples face when it comes to fair and equitable access to quality and culturally safe health care services.The Government of Canada will work collaboratively with provinces and territories on four shared health priorities to improve integrated health care for Canadians:
  • Expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • Supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • Improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • Modernising the health care system with standardised health data and digital tools.
Helping Canadians age with dignity, closer to home, with access to home care or care in a safe long-term care facility is another area of priority.In addition to investments announced, the government is actively working with provinces and territories to ensure that we improve our health care system in a matter that strengthens its public, accessible, and universal nature by respecting the Canada Health Act. On March 10, the Minister of Health, announced mandatory Canada Health Transfer (CHT) deductions totalling over $82 million in respect of patient charges levied during 2020-21 for medically necessary services that should be accessible to patients at no cost. He also announced next steps to curb private medically necessary health care being paid out-of-pocket by Canadians, with a focus on virtual care and other medically necessary services that Canadians are being asked to pay for. The Minister of Health has also sent a letter to his provincial and territorial colleagues reiterating our collective responsibility in ensuring Canadians’ ability to access medically necessary services without having to pay out of pocket, no matter where they live in the country or how care is delivered.As part of the Budget 2017 commitment to improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, the Government is investing $11 billion over 10 years to increase supports for Canadians. Bilateral agreements, detailing how federal investment between 2017-18 and 2021-22 would help improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, were negotiated with all provinces and territories and posted to the Government of Canada’s website.As a result of this investment, provinces and territories have implemented new initiatives to improve access and spread evidence-based models of mental health and addiction services, with a particular focus on strengthening supports for children and youth.Another priority for the government is meeting the needs of seniors, including helping to ensure they can access the safe, quality health care they need and deserve. To address the significant challenges revealed during COVID-19, the federal government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care (LTC) Fund in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement. This fund transferred $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care.Budget 2021 also provided $3 billion over five years to support provinces and territories in their efforts to improve long-term care in their jurisdictions. The Government of Canada believes that strengthening compliance and enforcement activities in LTC facilities, as well as supporting workforce stability through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions, is essential to improving safety and care for patients, and creating a more positive and healthier environment for all who live or work in LTC.In January 2023, the government welcomed the release of independent LTC standards from the Health Standards Organization and CSA Group. These standards provide guidance for delivering services that are safe, reliable and centred on residents’ needs; foster a healthy and competent workforce; and create safer physical environments by promoting a culture of quality improvement and learning across LTC homes.Canadians want to age closer to home and family, but also expect long-term care to be safe, if it is needed. As such, the government is looking at developing a Safe LTC Act to help ensure seniors get the care they deserve, while respecting provincial and territorial jurisdiction. In the coming months, the Government of Canada will move forward with consultations and engagement with stakeholders and Canadians on the Safe LTC Act.In addition, the Government of Canada provides funding to a suite of pan-Canadian Health Organizations who provide a national leadership role on a broad range of pan-Canadian health priorities. This includes the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) that works with partners across Canada to accelerate and introduce programs to restore and sustain cancer care in the wake of the pandemic, drive faster innovation to improve access to world-class screening; address inequities in care for underserved populations, and advance the priorities and actions of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control (2019-2029).Further, the government seeks to bolster our health care system by addressing the workforce crisis by attracting and retaining foreign-born health care workers   While the licensing of immigrant health care workers is under the purview of the provincial and territorial colleges, the federal government has made it easier for foreign-born physicians to remain in Canada, so they can continue to practice in the country. The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada continues to prioritize temporary resident work permit applications for essential workers in health care, and in 2022, the department accepted over 8,600 temporary and permanent resident applications from foreign nationals intending to work in the health sector. More information on this initiative can be found at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2022/09/easier-access-to-permanent-residence-for-physicians-in-canada-to-help-address-doctor-shortages.html.Most recently, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship launched a call for proposals under the Foreign Credential Recognition Program. Up to $90 million will be invested in projects that will help remove barriers preventing qualified and skilled newcomers from gaining Canadian work experience in their own profession or field of study. These projects will give internationally educated health professionals the support and experience needed to pursue opportunities in the areas where we need their skills most.Canadians and their families deserve timely access to health care services they need, and they expect their governments to work together to find immediate and longer-term solutions to these challenges. The federal government will continue working closely with provinces and territories to help ensure all Canadians have equitable access to medically necessary care based on their needs, not their ability to pay.
Federal-provincial-territorial relationsHealth care system
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 23, 2023441-01126441-01126 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 8, 2023March 23, 2023November 4, 2022Petition to the House of Commons Whereas:1. The Canada Health Act provides a framework to insure Canada would have a world class health care system based on five fundamental principles;2. The five principles include public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility;3. Both the Federal and Provincial Governments have a responsibility to insure there is a sense of equity in fairness of services no matter where a person lives in Canada; and4. Extra attention should be given to issues like mental health, cancer care, long term care, recognizing immigrant healthcare workers and ways to improve and expand our healthcare services in general.We, the undersigned residents of the Province of Manitoba, call upon the Government of Canada to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to insure quality healthcare services in all regions of Canada.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Canada Health Act, Canada’s federal health care insurance legislation, aims to ensure that all eligible residents of Canadian provinces and territories have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital, physician, and surgical-dental services that require a hospital setting (i.e., insured health services) on a prepaid basis, without charges related to the provision of insured health care services.The Act sets out the criteria and conditions related to medically necessary insured health services that the provinces and territories must fulfill to receive the full federal cash contribution available under the Canada Health Transfer (CHT). These criteria are public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility.While the federal government plays a role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes setting their own priorities, administering their health care budgets, and managing their own resources.The Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments to strengthen health care systems to ensure they continue to meet the needs of Canadians and has taken leadership in engaging with the jurisdictions to address key health care priorities.Most recently, On February 7,2023, the Prime Minister and his provincial and territorial counterparts discussed actions needed to improve the health care system while adapting to the changing needs of Canadians.The government put forward a comprehensive plan to improve the health care system – to chart a path forward together. The plan is supported by a significant investment of $198.6 billion over 10 years, including $46.2 billion in new funding to provinces and territories, which Premiers have accepted. This funding will be distributed partly through the Canada Health Transfer and partly through tailor-made bilateral agreements with provinces and territories that allow for flexibility for jurisdictional health care system needs. This funding includes the following elements:
  • An immediate, unconditional $2 billion CHT top-up to address immediate pressures on the health care system, especially in pediatric hospitals and emergency rooms, and long wait times for surgeries;
  • A 5 per cent CHT guarantee for the next five years, which will be provided through annual top-up payments as required;
  • $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in the four areas of shared priority;
  • $1.7 billion over five years to support hourly wage increases for personal support workers and related professions, as federal, provincial and territorial governments work together on how best to support recruitment and retention; and,
  • $175 million over five years for the Territorial Health Investment Fund in recognition of medical travel and the cost of delivering health care in the territories.
In addition, the government will work with Indigenous partners to provide additional support for Indigenous health priorities, with $2 billion over 10 years to address the unique challenges Indigenous Peoples face when it comes to fair and equitable access to quality and culturally safe health care services.The Government of Canada will work collaboratively with provinces and territories on four shared health priorities to improve integrated health care for Canadians:
  • Expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • Supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • Improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • Modernising the health care system with standardised health data and digital tools.
Helping Canadians age with dignity, closer to home, with access to home care or care in a safe long-term care facility is another area of priority.In addition to investments announced, the government is actively working with provinces and territories to ensure that we improve our health care system in a matter that strengthens its public, accessible, and universal nature by respecting the Canada Health Act. On March 10, the Minister of Health, announced mandatory Canada Health Transfer (CHT) deductions totalling over $82 million in respect of patient charges levied during 2020-21 for medically necessary services that should be accessible to patients at no cost. He also announced next steps to curb private medically necessary health care being paid out-of-pocket by Canadians, with a focus on virtual care and other medically necessary services that Canadians are being asked to pay for. The Minister of Health has also sent a letter to his provincial and territorial colleagues reiterating our collective responsibility in ensuring Canadians’ ability to access medically necessary services without having to pay out of pocket, no matter where they live in the country or how care is delivered.As part of the Budget 2017 commitment to improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, the Government is investing $11 billion over 10 years to increase supports for Canadians. Bilateral agreements, detailing how federal investment between 2017-18 and 2021-22 would help improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, were negotiated with all provinces and territories and posted to the Government of Canada’s website.As a result of this investment, provinces and territories have implemented new initiatives to improve access and spread evidence-based models of mental health and addiction services, with a particular focus on strengthening supports for children and youth.Another priority for the government is meeting the needs of seniors, including helping to ensure they can access the safe, quality health care they need and deserve. To address the significant challenges revealed during COVID-19, the federal government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care (LTC) Fund in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement. This fund transferred $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care.Budget 2021 also provided $3 billion over five years to support provinces and territories in their efforts to improve long-term care in their jurisdictions. The Government of Canada believes that strengthening compliance and enforcement activities in LTC facilities, as well as supporting workforce stability through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions, is essential to improving safety and care for patients, and creating a more positive and healthier environment for all who live or work in LTC.In January 2023, the government welcomed the release of independent LTC standards from the Health Standards Organization and CSA Group. These standards provide guidance for delivering services that are safe, reliable and centred on residents’ needs; foster a healthy and competent workforce; and create safer physical environments by promoting a culture of quality improvement and learning across LTC homes.Canadians want to age closer to home and family, but also expect long-term care to be safe, if it is needed. As such, the government is looking at developing a Safe LTC Act to help ensure seniors get the care they deserve, while respecting provincial and territorial jurisdiction. In the coming months, the Government of Canada will move forward with consultations and engagement with stakeholders and Canadians on the Safe LTC Act.In addition, the Government of Canada provides funding to a suite of pan-Canadian Health Organizations who provide a national leadership role on a broad range of pan-Canadian health priorities.This includes the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) that works with partners across Canada to accelerate and introduce programs to restore and sustain cancer care in the wake of the pandemic, drive faster innovation to improve access to world-class screening; address inequities in care for underserved populations, and advance the priorities and actions of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control (2019-2029).Further, the government seeks to bolster our health care system by addressing the workforce crisis by attracting and retaining foreign-born health care workers   While the licensing of immigrant health care workers is under the purview of the provincial and territorial colleges, the federal government has made it easier for foreign-born physicians to remain in Canada, so they can continue to practice in the country. The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada continues to prioritize temporary resident work permit applications for essential workers in health care, and in 2022, the department accepted over 8,600 temporary and permanent resident applications from foreign nationals intending to work in the health sector. More information on this initiative can be found at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2022/09/easier-access-to-permanent-residence-for-physicians-in-canada-to-help-address-doctor-shortages.html.Most recently, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship launched a call for proposals under the Foreign Credential Recognition Program. Up to $90 million will be invested in projects that will help remove barriers preventing qualified and skilled newcomers from gaining Canadian work experience in their own profession or field of study. These projects will give internationally educated health professionals the support and experience needed to pursue opportunities in the areas where we need their skills most.Canadians and their families deserve timely access to health care services they need, and they expect their governments to work together to find immediate and longer-term solutions to these challenges. The federal government will continue working closely with provinces and territories s to help ensure all Canadians have equitable access to medically necessary care based on their needs, not their ability to pay.
Federal-provincial-territorial relationsHealth care system
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01633441-01633 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONSeptember 20, 2023November 3, 2023November 4, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00927441-00927 (Foreign affairs)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023November 4, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Falun Gong is a traditional Chinese spiritual discipline which consists of meditation exercise and moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance;In July 1999, the Chinese Communist Party launched an intensive, nationwide persecution campaign to eradicate Falun Gong. Hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners have been detained in forced labour camps, brainwashing centres and prisons, where torture and abuse are routine and thousands died as a result;Canadian lawyer David Matas and former Canadian Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific David Kilgour conducted an investigation in 2006 and concluded that the Chinese regime and its agencies throughout China have put to death a large number, in tens of thousands, of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience. Their vital organs were seized involuntarily for sale at high price;The Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) has got about 1.5 million petition signatures from over 50 countries and presented to United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights calling for immediate action to end the unethical practice of forced organ harvesting in China and calls for an end of the persecution of Falun Gong; andThe European Parliament passed a resolution condemning the organ harvesting abuses in China and calls on the Government of China to end immediately the practice of harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience.Therefore we, the undersigned, request the Canadian parliament and government to:A) Pass a resolution to establish measures to stop the Chinese Communist regime's crime of systematically murdering Falun Gong practitioners for their organs;B) Amend Canadian legislations to combat forced organ harvesting; andC) Publicly call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong in China.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits, public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, interventions and advocacy by its diplomatic missions, and outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on November 21, 2022.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities.On December 14, 2022, Bill S-223 regarding organ harvesting and trafficking, which parliamentarians have linked to Uyghurs and Falun Dafa practitioners in China, was adopted unanimously at third reading in the House of Commons by a vote of 324-0. Bill S-223 then received Royal Assent the following day. Bill S-223 will make it a criminal offence for a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident to go abroad to receive an organ taken from someone who did not give informed consent to the removal of the organ. Canada joins jurisdictions such as the UK, Italy, Israel, Belgium, Norway, Spain, and South Korea and Taiwan that have passed legislation to combat forced organ harvesting, organ transplant tourism, and organ trafficking.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The Government’s newly released Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) also directly outlines Canada’s approach to China. China’s rise as a global actor is reshaping the strategic outlook of every state in the region, including Canada. The third pillar of the IPS specifically invests in people, development, and the defense of human rights in the Indo Pacific region. Canada will never apologize for pursuing its national interests, which includes upholding global rules that govern human rights.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 2, 2022441-00767441-00767 (Foreign affairs)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONOctober 19, 2022December 2, 2022October 11, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Falun Gong is a traditional Chinese spiritual discipline which consists of meditation exercise and moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance;In July 1999, the Chinese Communist Party launched an intensive, nationwide persecution campaign to eradicate Falun Gong. Hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners have been detained in forced labour camps, brainwashing centres and prisons, where torture and abuse are routine and thousands died as a result;Canadian lawyer David Matas and former Canadian Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific David Kilgour conducted an investigation in 2006 and concluded that the Chinese regime and its agencies throughout China have put to death a large number, in tens of thousands, of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience. Their vital organs were seized involuntarily for sale at high price;The Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) has got about 1.5 million petition signatures from over 50 countries and presented to United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights calling for immediate action to end the unethical practice of forced organ harvesting in China and calls for an end of the persecution of Falun Gong; andThe European Parliament passed a resolution condemning the organ harvesting abuses in China and calls on the Government of China to end immediately the practice of harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience.Therefore we, the undersigned, request the Canadian parliament and government to:A) Pass a resolution to establish measures to stop the Chinese Communist regime's crime of systematically murdering Falun Gong practitioners for their organs;B) Amend Canadian legislations to combat forced organ harvesting; andC) Publicly call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong in China.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Ministers stressed the importance of frank dialogue, and that with our strong cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries must pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China.On July 8, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the margins of the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting. She once again reiterated Canada’s concerns with human rights in China.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023441-01346441-01346 (Fisheries)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCApril 26, 2023June 9, 2023October 17, 2022Petition to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard to persevere in her restorative aims and use tools in the Sustainable Fisheries Framework, and to:1. Postpone licensing any further shellfish aquaculture facilities located in/near herring spawning and rearing habitat in Baynes Sound/Lambert Channel until:
  • (i) an ecosystem-based assessment is completed on the impacts of this industry's activities on the herring stock,
  • (ii) this industry establishes a record of effectively managing its gear and equipment, and pays for the cleanup of the tons of plastic debris it produces annually; and
2. Develop, with First Nations, a co-management plan for Baynes Sound/Lambert Channel that:
  • (i) is area-based and ecosystem-based,
  • (ii) respects and recognizes unceded traditional territories and this location's unique value as an Ecologically and Biologically Significant Area and Important Bird and Biodiversity Area with twenty-one salmon-bearing creeks, and herring spawning and rearing grounds,
  • (iii) considers other stakeholders.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike KellowayIn response to petition elements 1:
  • Herring plays a critical, foundational role in the ecosystem, supporting numerous economically, ecologically, and culturally significant species. The Department takes into consideration the importance of herring and herring spawning areas when making decisions about aquaculture licences and we have strong regulatory tools in place to protect herring spawn.
  • The Fisheries Act prohibits harmfully disturbing herring spawn, unless authorized (for example, legally harvesting roe on kelp). A shellfish aquaculture licence is not an authorization to harmfully disturb spawn. Herring spawn has been known to settle on aquaculture gear and any spawn on shellfish gear, or any other thing upon which it has set, cannot be harmfully disturbed or killed, until the time for the eggs to have hatched is passed.
  • In addition to the above noted provisions in the Fisheries Act, the shellfish aquaculture conditions of licence prescribe the protection of important and sensitive habitats, including but not limited to kelp beds and eelgrass. It is prohibited to conduct shellfish aquaculture activities within kelp and eelgrass, which are important spawning habitats for herring.
  • All shellfish aquaculture licence applications are subject to a rigorous harmonized review process that considers the application in context to all other fisheries and habitat, including proximity to fish spawning areas. The review is conducted on a site by site basis and site specific measures can be prescribed into a licence when and as needed.
  • DFO recognizes that debris from aquaculture sites is an important issue to the public. The marine finfish aquaculture conditions of licence and shellfish aquaculture conditions of licence include requirements to have infrastructure and equipment capable of withstanding oceanographic and meteorological conditions in the licensed location. Farm operators must conduct regular inspection of their infrastructure and equipment and are responsible for ensuring debris generated by the facility is collected or treated and disposed of appropriately.
  • According to the conditions of licence for Shellfish Aquaculture operators, the onus is on the licence holder to prevent pollution. New shellfish aquaculture conditions of licence were introduced, directly addressing marine plastic debris and ghost gear. The new licence conditions support lost gear identification, polystyrene (eg. Styrofoam) pollution reduction, and regular clean-ups of licensed facilities. These conditions work to support government priorities and commitments, specifically under the restored Fisheries Act, G7 Ocean Plastics Charter, CCME Zero Plastic Waste Action Plan (Phase II), and the Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI). The shellfish conditions of licence require aquaculture licence holders to perform regular seafloor inspections, remove and dispose of debris, permanently label most types of plastic equipment and aquaculture gear for easy identification, and remove exposed foam used for floatation. These new requirements came into effect as of April 1, 2023.
  • DFO will continue to review the performance of existing management measures and will work with partners and stakeholders to identify areas where further action is needed.
In response to petition elements 2:
  • The Government of Canada has committed to working with provinces/territories, industry, Indigenous partners, environmental groups, and others to ensure a sustainable path forward for aquaculture.
  • We are currently exploring an area-based approach to aquaculture management in the Baynes Sound/Lambert Channel area through a two-year pilot project in partnership with the K’omoks First Nation.
  • DFO is now working closely with the K’omoks First Nation, and other First Nations with overlapping territory in the area, to discuss and understand the unique social, cultural, environmental, and economic values in Baynes Sound/Lambert Channel. This includes the recognition of Baynes Sound as an Ecologically and Biologically Significant Area and the shared responsibility of stewardship.
  • This initiative is a step towards ecosystem-based management and may lead to the co- development of an aquaculture management plan for this area, should that be something all parties agree to creating.
AquacultureHerringIndigenous peoples
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 23, 2023441-01119441-01119 (Health)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBFebruary 7, 2023March 23, 2023October 31, 2022Petition to the House of Commons Whereas:1. The Canada Health Act provides a framework to insure Canada would have a world class health care system based on five fundamental principles;2. The five principles include public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility;3. Both the Federal and Provincial Governments have a responsibility to insure there is a sense of equity in fairness of services no matter where a person lives in Canada; and4. Extra attention should be given to issues like mental health, cancer care, long term care, recognizing immigrant healthcare workers and ways to improve and expand our healthcare services in general.We, the undersigned residents of the Province of Manitoba, call upon the Government of Canada to work with Provincial Governments and other healthcare stakeholders to insure quality healthcare services in all regions of Canada.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Canada Health Act, Canada’s federal health care insurance legislation, aims to ensure that all eligible residents of Canadian provinces and territories have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital, physician, and surgical-dental services that require a hospital setting (i.e., insured health services) on a prepaid basis, without charges related to the provision of insured health care services.The Act sets out the criteria and conditions related to medically necessary insured health services that the provinces and territories must fulfill to receive the full federal cash contribution available under the Canada Health Transfer (CHT). These criteria are public administration, comprehensiveness, universality, portability, and accessibility. While the federal government plays a role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, provincal and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes setting their own priorities, administering their health care budgets, and managing their own resources.The Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments to strengthen health care systems to ensure they continue to meet the needs of Canadians and has taken leadership in engaging with the jurisdictions to address key health care priorities.Most recently, On February 7,2023, the Prime Minister and his provincial and territorial counterparts discussed actions needed to improve the health care system while adapting to the changing needs of Canadians.The government put forward a comprehensive plan to improve the health care system – to chart a path forward together. The plan is supported by a significant investment of $198.6 billion over 10 years, including $46.2 billion in new funding to provinces and territories, which Premiers have accepted. This funding will be distributed partly through the Canada Health Transfer and partly through tailor-made bilateral agreements with provinces and territories that allow for flexibility for jurisdictional health care system needs. This funding includes the following elements:
  • An immediate, unconditional $2 billion CHT top-up to address immediate pressures on the health care system, especially in pediatric hospitals and emergency rooms, and long wait times for surgeries;
  • A 5 per cent CHT guarantee for the next five years, which will be provided through annual top-up payments as required;
  • $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in the four areas of shared priority;
  • $1.7 billion over five years to support hourly wage increases for personal support workers and related professions, as federal, provincial and territorial governments work together on how best to support recruitment and retention; and,
  • $175 million over five years for the Territorial Health Investment Fund in recognition of medical travel and the cost of delivering health care in the territories.
In addition, the government will work with Indigenous partners to provide additional support for Indigenous health priorities, with $2 billion over 10 years to address the unique challenges Indigenous Peoples face when it comes to fair and equitable access to quality and culturally safe health care services.The Government of Canada will work collaboratively with provinces and territories on four shared health priorities to improve integrated health care for Canadians:
  • Expanding access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • Supporting our health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • Improving access to quality mental health and substance use services; and,
  • Modernising the health care system with standardised health data and digital tools.
Helping Canadians age with dignity, closer to home, with access to home care or care in a safe long-term care facility is another area of priority.In addition to investments announced, the government is actively working with provinces and territories to ensure that we improve our health care system in a matter that strengthens its public, accessible, and universal nature by respecting the Canada Health Act. On March 10, the Minister of Health, announced mandatory Canada Health Transfer (CHT) deductions totalling over $82 million in respect of patient charges levied during 2020-21 for medically necessary services that should be accessible to patients at no cost. He also announced next steps to curb private medically necessary health care being paid out-of-pocket by Canadians, with a focus on virtual care and other medically necessary services that Canadians are being asked to pay for. The Minister of Health has also sent a letter to his provincial and territorial colleagues reiterating our collective responsibility in ensuring Canadians’ ability to access medically necessary services without having to pay out of pocket, no matter where they live in the country or how care is delivered.As part of the Budget 2017 commitment to improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, the Government is investing $11 billion over 10 years to increase supports for Canadians. Bilateral agreements, detailing how federal investment between 2017-18 and 2021-22 would help improve access to home and community care and mental health and addiction services, were negotiated with all provinces and territories and posted to the Government of Canada’s website.As a result of this investment, provinces and territories have implemented new initiatives to improve access and spread evidence-based models of mental health and addiction services, with a particular focus on strengthening supports for children and youth.Another priority for the government is meeting the needs of seniors, including helping to ensure they can access the safe, quality health care they need and deserve. To address the significant challenges revealed during COVID-19, the federal government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care (LTC) Fund in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement. This fund transferred $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care.Budget 2021 also provided $3 billion over five years to support provinces and territories in their efforts to improve long-term care in their jurisdictions. The Government of Canada believes that strengthening compliance and enforcement activities in LTC facilities, as well as supporting workforce stability through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions, is essential to improving safety and care for patients, and creating a more positive and healthier environment for all who live or work in LTC.In January 2023, the government welcomed the release of independent LTC standards from the Health Standards Organization and CSA Group. These standards provide guidance for delivering services that are safe, reliable and centred on residents’ needs; foster a healthy and competent workforce; and create safer physical environments by promoting a culture of quality improvement and learning across LTC homes.Canadians want to age closer to home and family, but also expect long-term care to be safe, if it is needed. As such, the government is looking at developing a Safe LTC Act to help ensure seniors get the care they deserve, while respecting provincial and territorial jurisdiction. In the coming months, the Government of Canada will move forward with consultations and engagement with stakeholders and Canadians on the Safe LTC Act.In addition, the Government of Canada provides funding to a suite of pan-Canadian Health Organizations who provide a national leadership role on a broad range of pan-Canadian health priorities.This includes the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) that works with partners across Canada to accelerate and introduce programs to restore and sustain cancer care in the wake of the pandemic, drive faster innovation to improve access to world-class screening; address inequities in care for underserved populations, and advance the priorities and actions of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control (2019-2029).Further, the government seeks to bolster our health care system by addressing the workforce crisis by attracting and retaining foreign-born health care workers   While the licensing of immigrant health care workers is under the purview of the provincial and territorial colleges, the federal government has made it easier for foreign-born physicians to remain in Canada, so they can continue to practice in the country. The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada continues to prioritize temporary resident work permit applications for essential workers in health care, and in 2022, the department accepted over 8,600 temporary and permanent resident applications from foreign nationals intending to work in the health sector. More information on this initiative can be found at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2022/09/easier-access-to-permanent-residence-for-physicians-in-canada-to-help-address-doctor-shortages.html.Most recently, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship launched a call for proposals under the Foreign Credential Recognition Program. Up to $90 million will be invested in projects that will help remove barriers preventing qualified and skilled newcomers from gaining Canadian work experience in their own profession or field of study. These projects will give internationally educated health professionals the support and experience needed to pursue opportunities in the areas where we need their skills most.Canadians and their families deserve timely access to health care services they need, and they expect their governments to work together to find immediate and longer-term solutions to these challenges. The federal government will continue working closely with provinces and territories s to help ensure all Canadians have equitable access to medically necessary care based on their needs, not their ability to pay.
Federal-provincial-territorial relationsHealth care system
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00904441-00904 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCDecember 1, 2022January 30, 2023October 25, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Steven GuilbeaultOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector – one that provides affordable, reliable, and low emission energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries while exporting products and technologies around the world. The Government also recognizes that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective energy transition must ensure a strong economy, a cleaner environment and good, sustainable jobs for all Canadians.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the opportunities of the energy transition – by decarbonizing Canada’s energy sector and making thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors such as clean technology and renewable energy.As part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. On December 8th 2022, the Government of Canada announced the implementation of this commitment with the release of the policy guidelines that lay the foundation for federal departments and agencies to put in place the measures set out in this commitment. By ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada will ensure its investments abroad are aligned with its domestic and international climate goals, which means investing in clean energy and renewables.In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also announced that it will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with Canada’s climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.At the same time, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support Canadian workers and communities as they avail themselves of the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. Public consultations to inform the development of the Sustainable Jobs legislation were launched in July 2021 and have included 17 roundtable sessions with a range of stakeholders, including workers and labour organizations, industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, youth, and experts in skills and training as well as diversity and inclusion. The Government is also in discussions with the provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners, to understand their priorities and perspectives as it seeks to introduce federal legislation early in 2023.In addition, Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. This includes working with Employment and Social Development Canada to advance growth opportunities in the natural resource sectors, as well as ways to train workers to address labour market shortages.The 2022 federal budget announced actions that will deliver approximately 500,000 training and job opportunities for Canadians in clean energy sectors. These investments include the $960 million Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program that will help both workers and employers by supporting solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs.Building on those job-creation efforts, the Government’s Fall Economic Statement on November 3, 2022, included the launch of a Sustainable Jobs Secretariat, which is a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program, and the creation of a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers in key sectors and occupations improve their skills or gain new ones for the net-zero economy.The Fall Economic Statement also proposed a number of important new initiatives to strengthen Canada’s economic competitiveness and attract new investments in clean growth. These include: the Investment Tax Credit for Clean Technologies, which would provide a refundable tax credit equal to 30 per cent of the capital cost of investments in clean energy technologies for claimants that meet certain labour conditions (20 per cent rate for those who do not); and the formal unveiling of the Canada Growth Fund, which seeks to attract billions of dollars in private capital to reduce Canada’s emissions, grow the economy and create good jobs.Amid this concerted action, the Government is also launching Regional Energy and Resource Tables to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, experts, labour organizations and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a net-zero world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.The 2022 Fall Economic Statement (FES) proposes to provide $250 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy. Specific measures include: a Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and a new Sustainable Jobs Secretariat.The Sustainable Jobs Training Centre will bring together workers, unions, employers, and training institutions across the country to examine the skills of the labour force today, forecast future skills requirements, and develop curriculum, micro-credentials, and on-site learning to help 15,000 workers upgrade or gain new skills for jobs in a low-carbon economy. The Centre would focus on specific areas in high demand, starting with the sustainable battery industry and low-carbon building and retrofits.The FES also proposes to put in place a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program to support unions in leading the development of green skills training for works in the trades. It is expected that 20,000 apprentices and journeypersons would benefit from this investment.To effectively support workers on the road to sustainable, good-paying jobs, the FES also proposes to launch the Sustainable Jobs Secretariat to offer a one-stop shop for workers and employers. It will provide the most up to date information on federal programs, funding, and services across government departments as Canada works to build a low-carbon economy with opportunities for everyone.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table to advise the Government on priorities for helping workers navigate the changing labour market. 
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00936441-00936 (Justice)AnnaRobertsKing—VaughanConservativeONDecember 6, 2022January 30, 2023November 30, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies. The Parliamentary Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) recently completed its review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to MAID and their application, and of other issues, including those relating to mature minors (i.e., minors who have the capacity to make medical decisions). AMAD’s final report is expected to be tabled in Parliament by February 17, 2023.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 29, 2023441-01138441-01138 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 13, 2023March 29, 2023November 22, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Irresponsible practices by industry and multi-national corporations have led to the destruction and denigration of much of Canada's waterways and watersheds;
  • Current laws do not sufficiently protect Canada's waterways and watersheds from such irresponsible practices; and
  • Protecting waterways and watersheds also protects Canada's forests, fisheries, land, and air.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Update Canada's water laws to ensure that no industry or corporation takes precedence over the health of Canada's waterways and watersheds, and by extension the health of the country's people, species, and land; and
  • Ensure Canada's water laws are updated under the guidance of professionals and specialists in the field of water conservation.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTA clean and safe freshwater supply is essential to the well-being of Canadians, the health and sustainability of the environment, and the economy. Hence, the Government of Canada has committed to:
  • establishing a federal Canada Water Agency to work with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to find the best ways to keep Canada’s water safe, clean, and well-managed;
  • implementing a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to protect and restore large lakes and river systems starting with the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System, Lake Simcoe, the Lake Winnipeg Basin, the Fraser River Basin and the Mackenzie River Basin;
  • investing in the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research; and
  • following the establishment of a Canada Water Agency, advancing the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality including climate change and Indigenous rights.
To advance these commitments, Budget 2022 proposed to provide $88.1 million over 5 years in new funding for Environment and Climate Change Canada, which included:
  • $43.5 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, and $8.7 million ongoing to create the new Canada Water Agency.
  • $19.6 million in 2022-2023 to sustain the Freshwater Action Plan. This funding will support clean-up efforts in the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence River, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, the Fraser River, the Saint John River, the Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe. The future of this initiative will be communicated at a later date.
  • $25.0 million over five years, starting in 2022-2023, for the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research.
Another way that the Government of Canada protects and conserves Canada’s water resources is by administering laws that control pollution such as the Fisheries Act.Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is the lead department responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Fisheries Act pollution prevention provisions (except for their application to aquaculture and the control and eradication of aquatic invasive species and aquatic pests, which are under the responsibility of the Department of Fisheries and Ocean). Subsection 36(3) prohibits the deposit of any deleterious substances in water frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Deleterious substances include any substance that, if added to water, would degrade, alter or form part of a process of degradation or alteration of the quality of water so that it is rendered deleterious to fish or fish habitat or to the use of fish by humans. Any regulations developed under section 36 set strict requirements on deposits to water. These regulations can impose conditions such as limits on the maximum quantities of deleterious substances released into water, and can include environmental effects monitoring and other reporting requirements for facilities. Modern Fisheries Act regulations include the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations, the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations, and the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations.Environment and Climate Change Canada is developing proposed regulations to address deposits to water from coal mining and is investigating risk management approaches for tailings ponds from oil sands operations.To learn more about these proposed regulations, as well as upcoming improvements to existing regulations, please consult the Fisheries Act Forward Regulatory Plan 2022-2024 available at https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/corporate/transparency/acts-regulations/forward-regulatory-plan/2022-2024/fisheries-act.html.Environment and Climate Change Canada enforces the subsection 36(3) prohibition, as well as regulations under the Fisheries Act according to the Compliance and Enforcement Policy for Habitat Protection and Pollution Prevention Provisions of the Fisheries Act: www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-enforcement/publications/compliance-enforcement-policy-fisheries-act.html.
Environmental protectionInland watersWatersheds
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00827441-00827 (Foreign affairs)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONNovember 2, 2022January 18, 2023October 11, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Falun Gong is a traditional Chinese spiritual discipline which consists of meditation exercise and moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance;In July 1999, the Chinese Communist Party launched an intensive, nationwide persecution campaign to eradicate Falun Gong. Hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners have been detained in forced labour camps, brainwashing centres and prisons, where torture and abuse are routine and thousands died as a result;Canadian lawyer David Matas and former Canadian Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific David Kilgour conducted an investigation in 2006 and concluded that the Chinese regime and its agencies throughout China have put to death a large number, in tens of thousands, of Falun Gong prisoners of conscience. Their vital organs were seized involuntarily for sale at high price;The Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) has got about 1.5 million petition signatures from over 50 countries and presented to United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights calling for immediate action to end the unethical practice of forced organ harvesting in China and calls for an end of the persecution of Falun Gong; andThe European Parliament passed a resolution condemning the organ harvesting abuses in China and calls on the Government of China to end immediately the practice of harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience.Therefore we, the undersigned, request the Canadian parliament and government to:A) Pass a resolution to establish measures to stop the Chinese Communist regime's crime of systematically murdering Falun Gong practitioners for their organs;B) Amend Canadian legislations to combat forced organ harvesting; andC) Publicly call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong in China.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Ministers stressed the importance of frank dialogue, and that with our strong cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries must pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China.On July 8, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the margins of the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting. She once again reiterated Canada’s concerns with human rights in China.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01642441-01642 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 20, 2023November 3, 2023September 14, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 17, 2022441-00731441-00731 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 4, 2022November 17, 2022June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:
  • Modern slavery is deeply embedded in Canadian economic supply chains;
  • Approximately 152 million children are in child labour and 20 million people in forced labour today;
  • It is estimated that more than 1,200 companies operating in Canada that are at risk of being produced by child or forced labourers;
  • Approximately $20 billion (CAD) worth of goods imported each year are at-risk of being produced through modern slavery;
  • Large companies are not required to report measures taken to prevent modern slavery in their supply chains; and
  • Canada has committed to Target 8.7 of the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to eliminate all forms of child labour by 2025.
We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to pass S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and to amend the Customs Tariff, if and when it is passed by the Senate and sent to the House for consideration.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Minister of Labour, with support from the Minister of Public Safety, the Minister of Public Services and Procurement and the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, is working to advance legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and ensure that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses, as reflected in the December 2021 mandate letter commitment.Further to this commitment, the Government published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains: What We Heard Report (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/reports/what-we-heard-forced-labour-global-supply-chain.html) in March 2022, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and share any additional feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals and the Government will continue to consider the results of consultations moving forward.Parliament is actively engaged on this matter and there was unanimous support to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and to amend the Customs Tariff, studied by Committee. The Bill passed through the Senate in spring 2022 and was referred to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE) with unanimous support in the House on June 1, 2022.The Government supports the referral of Bill S-211 to FAAE and will look to strengthen the proposed legislation. The committee began its study of the Bill on September 26, 2022, by inviting the Sponsors of the Bill, Member of Parliament (MP) John McKay and Senator Julie Miville-Dechêne, to appear as witnesses.This is a complex endeavour that requires careful consideration of supply chain legislation appropriate to the Canadian context. It remains a relatively novel undertaking, and the effectiveness of various legislative models is yet to be determined. For that reason, we will continuously re-evaluate and reassess the steps we take on this matter.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business conduct (RBC) abroad.For example, Canada is party to a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights, including conventions addressing situations of child labour and forced labour. The Government continues to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Trade sanctions or financial penalties can be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. The National Strategy is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. As part of this National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to promoting ethical corporate practices by encouraging industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour in government procurement supply chains.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their subcontractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that it can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.On January 12, 2021, in coordination with international partners, Canada announced measures in response to concerns about human rights violations in the People’s Republic of China involving members of the Uyghur ethnic minority and other minorities within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang). These include a specialized Xinjiang Integrity Declaration as a prerequisite for Canadian companies with business ties to the region to receive Trade Commissioner Service support; a business advisory on Xinjiang-related entities; enhanced advice to Canadian businesses; export controls; increased awareness-raising for RBC related to Xinjiang; and a study on forced labour and supply chain risks, which is available on Global Affairs Canada’s website.At the September 2022 G7 Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, G7 partners committed to strengthen cooperation and collective efforts towards eradicating the use of all forms of forced labour and child labour in global supply chains. This commitment includes measures that promote corporate due diligence, as well as working to further enhance predictability and certainty for businesses.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in all their activities abroad, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines on RBC, such as the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Publications/GuidingPrinciplesBusinessHR_EN.pdf), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (https://www.oecd.org/daf/inv/mne/48004323.pdf), and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (https://www.ilo.org/empent/Publications/WCMS_094386/lang--en/index.htm). To this end, Global Affairs Canada released its RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad – no matter their size, sector, or scope – to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains and to help them mitigate risks. The Strategy strengthens Canada’s balanced approach to RBC, which includes preventative measures, legislation in select areas, and access to dispute resolution.The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains and meeting Target 8.7 of the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to eradicate forced labour and, by 2025, end all forms of child labour. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation.
Child labourForced labourImportsLabour lawS-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act and to amend the Customs Tariff
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00063441-00063 (Food and drink)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022December 3, 2021Petition to the Government of Canada: WHEREAS:
  • Farmers Markets are a key tool for covid-19 recovery as small business incubators, domestics system and food security builders, and local economy community builders and Farmers' Market Coupon Programs are a key support for new Market development and support for existing Markets and their provincial Associations;
  • Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs help create food security and resiliency by giving vulnerable people access to healthy locally grown foods and dietary education while positively impacting the physical and mental health of participants by increasing the amount and diversity of fruits and vegetables they consume;
  • The BC Farmers' Market Association with 135 member markets and 4000+ vendors and it's long-term partnership with the province of BC provides an excellent model for Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs; providing almost 16000 vulnerable families, seniors and pregnant women with access to weekly coupons, and seeing 1,909,000 to local farmers. Their current program has an average coupon redemption rate of over 91% and 79% of those participants claim the program made a long term change in their eating habits; and
  • A national matching program would assist in meeting those demands, encourage provinces without a provincial program to create one, and support those provinces who have a provincial program to expand to meet demand.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Motion M-78 and initiate a national matching program for all provincial Farmers' Markets Nutrition Coupon Programs across Canada that would match provinces who are already contributing to their Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program and encourage Provinces that do not have such a program to implement one by offering matching funding
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MPOn June 17, 2019, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) launched the first Food Policy for Canada, a whole-of-government approach supporting the vision that “All people in Canada are able to access a sufficient amount of safe, nutritious and culturally diverse food. Canada’s food system is resilient and innovative, sustains our environment, and supports our economy.”The Food Policy for Canada is an ambitious initiative, the product of consultation and collaboration with Canadians across the country. The Government of Canada heard from more than 45,000 Canadians, including agricultural producers and processors, experts in environment, health and food security, Indigenous groups, non-government organizations, and community advocates.Recognizing the importance of helping communities access healthy food, AAFC is delivering the Local Food Infrastructure Fund, a Food Policy initiative with $50 million in funding to strengthen local food systems and to facilitate access to safe and nutritious food for at-risk populations.The first phase of the Local Food Infrastructure Fund provided up to $25,000 for 362 projects for a total investment of $6.6 million. This funding supported projects including community gardens, the purchase of refrigerated trucks, kitchen and other equipment needed to prepare, store and distribute food, and the installation of solar panels and irrigation systems.In April 2020, the Government launched the Emergency Food Security Fund, to help improve access to food for people experiencing food insecurity in Canada that has been exacerbated as a result of COVID-19. Through this initiative, AAFC has made available up to $200 million to food banks and other food assistance organizations to support the urgent food needs of Canadians.The Government of Canada invested an additional $140 million in 2021-22 through Budget 2021 to top up the Emergency Food Security Fund and Local Food Infrastructure Fund.As Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs (FMNCPs) help address food insecurity by providing vulnerable people access to healthy locally grown foods, funding may be available as part of the Emergency Food Security Fund through contacting the intermediary organizationsthat distribute funding.In British Columbia, the FMNCP program is supported by the Province of British Columbia, the Provincial Health Services Authority and community donors. The Public Health Agency of Canada’s Multisectoral Partnership Program supported a similar initiative, with an investment of $1.5M from 2020 to 2024 to expand Community Food Centres Canada’s Market Greens initiative to 30 locations across Canada. The Market Greens initiative supports increased access to low-cost fresh produce markets and offers fruit and vegetable vouchers/coupons that can be used at participating local affordable markets.Thank you for the sharing your proposal to improve Canadians’ access to healthy, local foods through farmers markets and FMNCPs. The Government of Canada remains committed to considering all opportunities to improve food security for Canadians and a vibrant, productive agriculture sector in Canada.  
Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon ProgramFarmers marketsFood and drinkFood supply
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00084441-00084 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022November 23, 2021Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas:
  • Bill C-71, An Act to amend certain Acts and Regulations in relation to firearms, does nothing to tackle firearms violence, but rather adds further red-tape on law abiding firearms owners;
  • This legislation brings back the useless and ineffective long-gun registry; and
  • This legislation does not provide the resources to frontline police forces to tackle the true source of firearms violence: gangs and organized criminal enterprises.
We, the undersigned, Residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to repeal Bill C-71, An Act to amend certain Acts and Regulations in relation to firearms, and to instead devote greater resources to policing in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Pam DamoffIn cities across Canada, firearms violence is on the rise. Addressing the devastating effects of gun and gang violence is a priority shared by all Canadians and while Conservative members of Parliament have made many promises to the gun lobby to weaken gun control in Canada, our government remains committed to strengthening gun control. Our Government passed former Bill C-71 to keep firearms out of the wrong hands and to help trace firearms used in crimes. We moved quickly but carefully to implement C-71 in a way that was fair and transparent to firearms owners and  businesses. We consulted on proposed regulations, and we made certain the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) had the tools needed to implement the regulations effectively. On July 7, 2021, our Government brought into force expanded background checks for licence applications to cover the entire lifetime of an applicant’s history, and the Chief Firearms Officer must now consider whether the applicant has a history of harassment or restraining orders, or poses a danger to any other person. These changes are preventing people with a history of violence from owning a firearm. Also on July 7, 2021, our Government restored limits on the transportation of restricted and prohibited firearms within our communities. Individuals must now seek a Chief Firearms Officer’s discretionary authorization to transport these firearms to all places other than a shooting range or home after purchase. Our Government is committed to completing the implementation of former Bill C-71. The regulations on licence verification will protect public safety by reducing the risk of non-restricted firearms being sold or given to anyone that does not possess a valid firearms licence. The Chief Coroner of Ontario specifically requested this change after improper transfers resulted in fatal consequences.The regulations would also require businesses to keep sales and inventory records on non-restricted firearms for at least 20 years. Firearms businesses would hold the records. No information on a non-restricted firearm being transferred would be provided to the Registrar of Firearms; our Government has pledged to not bring back the long-gun registry. Law enforcement would need to have a valid purpose and authorization in order to access the records — such as a judicial production order — for example, to trace a crime gun, or investigate domestic trafficking or straw purchasing. Bill C-71 and its regulations are critical to public safety. But, more is needed. On May 1, 2020, our Government took a bold step by banning over 1,500 models and variants of assault-style firearms. These firearms are designed specifically to kill as many people as possible, as quickly as possible. They have been used in mass shootings in Nova Scotia, Québec City, and Montréal. They have no place in our society. These prohibited firearms can no longer be legally used, sold, or imported. Our Government will take further action to remove these guns from our communities, by making it mandatory for owners to deactivate or surrender these firearms. They pose a risk to the public’s safety that outweighs their continued availability within Canada. All levels of government have a role to play. Our Government is ready to support provinces and communities in taking action to control handguns. We will also provide $250M directly to municipalities and Indigenous communities to support community-based anti-gang programming. Our Government has also made significant investments at our borders — to stop illegal firearms from entering Canada— and in policing — to target trafficking within Canada, and diversion from the legal market through domestic straw purchasing and theft. We invested $125M for the RCMP and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to enhance firearms investigations and strengthen controls at the border, which resulted in a record number of arrests and firearms seizures at the border in 2021. These investments are part of a larger investment of $358.8M over five years for provinces and territories and enforcement agencies to address firearms and gang violence. Our Government is investing an additional $312M over five years — beginning this year — to better identify, disrupt and prevent firearms from entering the illicit market. We are investing $15M to increase the RCMP’s capacity to trace firearms and $40.3M for anti-smuggling activities, which includes building a national system that allows for the flagging of bulk purchases of firearms. We are also investing $21.6M for the CBSA to enhance its x-ray equipment to detect firearms at land and marine ports and to enable intelligence sharing. These investments will benefit law enforcement agencies across Canada by enabling RCMP and CBSA collaboration with police services to prevent illicit access to firearms through increased investigations and enforcement. Our Government has clearly taken bold action to address firearms and gang violence, and we are committed to doing more. 
FirearmsPolice services
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00005441-00005 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 24, 2021January 31, 2022November 22, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas.  The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits.  The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics.  The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors.  The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less-isolated areas of the country.  The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems.  The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging.  Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion.  It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system. It is important that the Government receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 25, 2022441-00219441-00219 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 4, 2022April 25, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas, Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Whereas, tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;Whereas, in August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;Whereas, the Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post-2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi`s maternity ward in May 2020 or the targeted attacks in Behsud (Maidan Wardak province), Jibrail (Herat) and Jalalabad (Nangarhar) from January to March of 2021;Whereas, Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban;Whereas, Afghanistan remains one of the largest recipients of Canada's international financial assistance;Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide. 2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day. 3. Support Bill C-287 to ensure that all development assistance sent from Canada to Afghanistan is contributing to the peace and security of the region for all peoples.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan. Canada denounced the tragic attack on May 8, 2021, against a girls’ high school in Kabul, which claimed the lives of 85 people, mostly young Hazara girls. Attacks such as this are a visible demonstration of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, forced conversions and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and prosecution of the Hazara population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again. The determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must however be done by a competent international or national court or tribunal, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to which Canada is a party.Canada has repeatedly shared its concerns on the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances.Canada recognizes that Afghanistan is at a pivotal moment, and is closely monitoring developments on the ground. One of Canada’s foreign policy priorities is to ensure the respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that all ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.Since August 2021, Canada has allocated $106 million in humanitarian assistance to respond to the needs of vulnerable populations in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries. This includes $56 million announced on December 21, 2021. Canada is supporting a multi-sectoral humanitarian response across Afghanistan, including a particular emphasis on the provision of life-saving food and nutrition assistance.Canada continues to respond through experienced humanitarian partners, such as United Nations agencies both inside Afghanistan and in neighbouring countries to address the needs of the most vulnerable. For example, with Canadian support, humanitarian partners provided 8.9 million people with food assistance and treatment for acute malnutrition to over 230,000 children under the age of five inside Afghanistan in the last four months of 2021.Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan and Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups over the past two decades. Canada is exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders and remote monitoring activities of the human rights situation by human rights bodies from outside of Afghanistan. Going forward, receiving unbiased and verified accounts of human rights atrocities will be crucial for the international community’s decision-making around its future engagement with the Taliban.On August 13, 2021, Canada announced a special humanitarian program to focus on particularly vulnerable Afghan nationals, including religious and ethnic minorities. Canada’s special immigration program has already brought thousands of Afghans, including Hazaras, to Canada, and teams across the world continue working to bring many more Afghans to safety.
AfghanistanGenocideHazarasInternational development and aid
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00100441-00100 (Foreign affairs)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022December 14, 2021PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, fell to the Taliban on August 15, 2021;
  • The Government of Canada was completely unprepared to evacuate its own citizens, as well as the thousands of Afghan allies and their families who supported our nations' military and humanitarian efforts, leaving them incountry and at-risk of Taliban retribution;
  • The Veterans Transition Network (VTN), non-profit organizations, and private supporters have stepped-in where the federal government has failed and are aiding Canada's Afghan allies and their families by funding safehouses and evacuation efforts; and
  • Additional federal support is desperately needed as the resources of the VTN and other groups are rapidly running out, while thousands of our allies still remain in Afghanistan and at-risk.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to partner with the Veterans Transition Network and others to launch an immediate evacuation effort of our remaining Afghan allies, relocate them to Canada, and safeguard them from Taliban retribution.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is committed to supporting regional efforts and providing assistance to Afghan refugees and host communities. On July 23, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a special immigration program focused on Afghans who provided critical support to Canada’s mission to Afghanistan. On August 13, IRCC announced a humanitarian program to resettle Afghan refugees with a focus on women leaders, human rights defenders, persecuted religious and ethnic minorities, journalists and people who helped Canadian journalists, LGBTI individuals, and extended family members of previously resettled interpreters. Canada has committed to resettling up to 40,000 vulnerable Afghan refugees under these programs.More than 7,000 Afghan refugees, and climbing, have arrived in Canada since the announcement of the special immigration program and more will continue to arrive in the weeks and months ahead. The Government of Canada recognizes that there are still many Afghans who have not been able to travel to Canada under the special immigration program, including some who may have had a relationship with the Government of Canada. IRCC continues to process accepted applications as quickly as possible, but it will take time for people to arrive in Canada.Canada has provided funding to Journalists for Human Rights, Veterans Transition Network and Aman Lara to support their efforts to protect vulnerable persons in Afghanistan, including human rights defenders, women peacebuilders, former Canadian Armed Forces interpreters and locally engaged staff. The Government of Canada continues to work closely with these organizations regarding the evolving situation in Afghanistan.Additionally, the Government Canada has allocated $27.3 million in humanitarian assistance early into 2021, with an additional $50 million for Afghanistan and the region announced on August 26, 2021, and most recently, an additional $56 million announced on December 21, 2021, to support the World Food Programme, United Nations High Commission for Refugees, International Committee of the Red Cross, United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and United Nations Children’s Fund over the next 15 months, both inside Afghanistan and in neighbouring countries. This support will help with immediate lifesaving needs of vulnerable Afghans.Canada continues to have discussions with allies and countries in the region to explore avenues to assist those who remain on the ground, as well as those who have already travelled to third countries and wish to come to Canada. Canada is deploying its full diplomatic weight through a variety of channels including through the G7, Five Country forums and the United Nations. The Government of Canada is closely monitoring the situation on the ground and remains committed to responding to the needs of the people of Afghanistan.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Sean FraserTo date, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has approved applications for more than 9,800 persons under our Special Immigration Measures to resettle Afghan nationals who assisted the Government of Canada along with their family members. We continue to move Afghan refugees as quickly as conditions allow.There are significant barriers to facilitating the exit of Afghan nationals from Afghanistan. There is no Canadian presence on the ground in Afghanistan. Crossing Afghanistan’s border is also dangerous. We are engaging closely with countries in the region and we have added more staff and resources in our missions abroad to ensure that individuals who have qualified for our Special Immigration Measures are processed to completion quickly if they exit Afghanistan.  IRCC recognizes that many at-risk Afghans remain in Afghanistan and are unable to leave. Our officials are working tirelessly to secure new partnerships and address constraints that limit the mobility of vulnerable groups. We have established new partnerships to find avenues for the resettlement of individuals from within Afghanistan. IRCC is working with Front Line Defenders and Protect Defenders, who have been able to facilitate the movement of some human rights defenders to neighbouring countries. IRCC is also in contact with the Veteran’s Transition Network (VTN) regarding their operations on the ground in Afghanistan.As of January 18, 2022, a total of 7140 Afghan nationals arrived in Canada: 4292 under the Special Immigration Measures, and 2850 under the humanitarian program.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on IRCC’s website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/refugees/afghanistan/key-figures.html 
AfghanistanRefugees
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00118441-00118 (Foreign affairs)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCFebruary 1, 2022March 21, 2022December 14, 2021PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, fell to the Taliban on August 15, 2021;
  • The Government of Canada was completely unprepared to evacuate its own citizens, as well as the thousands of Afghan allies and their families who supported our nations' military and humanitarian efforts, leaving them incountry and at-risk of Taliban retribution;
  • The Veterans Transition Network (VTN), non-profit organizations, and private supporters have stepped-in where the federal government has failed and are aiding Canada's Afghan allies and their families by funding safehouses and evacuation efforts; and
  • Additional federal support is desperately needed as the resources of the VTN and other groups are rapidly running out, while thousands of our allies still remain in Afghanistan and at-risk.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to partner with the Veterans Transition Network and others to launch an immediate evacuation effort of our remaining Afghan allies, relocate them to Canada, and safeguard them from Taliban retribution.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada is committed to supporting regional efforts and providing assistance to Afghan refugees and host communities. On July 23, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a special immigration program focused on Afghans who provided critical support to Canada’s mission to Afghanistan. On August 13, IRCC announced a humanitarian program to resettle Afghan refugees with a focus on women leaders, human rights defenders, persecuted religious and ethnic minorities, journalists and people who helped Canadian journalists, LGBTI individuals, and extended family members of previously resettled interpreters. Canada has committed to resettling up to 40,000 vulnerable Afghan refugees under these programs.More than 8,500 Afghan refugees, and climbing, have arrived in Canada since the announcement of the special immigration program and more will continue to arrive in the weeks and months ahead. The Government of Canada recognizes that there are still many Afghans who have not been able to travel to Canada under the special immigration program, including some who may have had a relationship with the Government of Canada. IRCC continues to process accepted applications as quickly as possible, but it will take time for people to arrive in Canada.Canada has provided funding to Veterans Transition Network and others to support their efforts to protect vulnerable persons in Afghanistan, including human rights defenders, women peacebuilders, former Canadian Armed Forces interpreters and locally engaged staff. The Government of Canada continues to work closely with various organizations regarding the evolving situation in Afghanistan.Additionally, the Government Canada has allocated $27.3 million in humanitarian assistance early into 2021, with an additional $50 million for Afghanistan and the region announced on August 26, 2021, and most recently, an additional $56 million announced on December 21, 2021, to support the World Food Programme, United Nations High Commission for Refugees, International Committee of the Red Cross, United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and United Nations Children’s Fund over the next 15 months, both inside Afghanistan and in neighbouring countries. This support will help with immediate lifesaving needs of vulnerable Afghans.Canada continues to have discussions with allies and countries in the region to explore avenues to assist those who remain on the ground, as well as those who have already travelled to third countries and wish to come to Canada. Canada is deploying its full diplomatic weight through a variety of channels including through the G7, Five Country forums and the United Nations. The Government of Canada is closely monitoring the situation on the ground and remains committed to responding to the needs of the people of Afghanistan.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on IRCC’s website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/refugees/afghanistan/key-figures.html.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is committed to supporting regional efforts and providing assistance to Afghan refugees and host communities. On July 23, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a special immigration program focused on Afghans who provided critical support to Canada’s mission to Afghanistan. On August 13, IRCC announced a humanitarian program to resettle Afghan refugees with a focus on women leaders, human rights defenders, persecuted religious and ethnic minorities, journalists and people who helped Canadian journalists, LGBTI individuals, and extended family members of previously resettled interpreters. Canada has committed to resettling up to 40,000 vulnerable Afghan refugees under these programs.More than 8,500 Afghan refugees, and climbing, have arrived in Canada since the announcement of the special immigration program and more will continue to arrive in the weeks and months ahead. The Government of Canada recognizes that there are still many Afghans who have not been able to travel to Canada under the special immigration program, including some who may have had a relationship with the Government of Canada. IRCC continues to process accepted applications as quickly as possible, but it will take time for people to arrive in Canada.Canada has provided funding to Veterans Transition Network and others to support their efforts to protect vulnerable persons in Afghanistan, including human rights defenders, women peacebuilders, former Canadian Armed Forces interpreters and locally engaged staff. The Government of Canada continues to work closely with various organizations regarding the evolving situation in Afghanistan.Additionally, the Government Canada has allocated $27.3 million in humanitarian assistance early into 2021, with an additional $50 million for Afghanistan and the region announced on August 26, 2021, and most recently, an additional $56 million announced on December 21, 2021, to support the World Food Programme, United Nations High Commission for Refugees, International Committee of the Red Cross, United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and United Nations Children’s Fund over the next 15 months, both inside Afghanistan and in neighbouring countries. This support will help with immediate lifesaving needs of vulnerable Afghans.Canada continues to have discussions with allies and countries in the region to explore avenues to assist those who remain on the ground, as well as those who have already travelled to third countries and wish to come to Canada. Canada is deploying its full diplomatic weight through a variety of channels including through the G7, Five Country forums and the United Nations. The Government of Canada is closely monitoring the situation on the ground and remains committed to responding to the needs of the people of Afghanistan.
AfghanistanRefugees
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 31, 2022441-00188441-00188 (Foreign affairs)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCFebruary 15, 2022March 31, 2022December 14, 2021PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, fell to the Taliban on August 15, 2021;
  • The Government of Canada was completely unprepared to evacuate its own citizens, as well as the thousands of Afghan allies and their families who supported our nations' military and humanitarian efforts, leaving them incountry and at-risk of Taliban retribution;
  • The Veterans Transition Network (VTN), non-profit organizations, and private supporters have stepped-in where the federal government has failed and are aiding Canada's Afghan allies and their families by funding safehouses and evacuation efforts; and
  • Additional federal support is desperately needed as the resources of the VTN and other groups are rapidly running out, while thousands of our allies still remain in Afghanistan and at-risk.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to partner with the Veterans Transition Network and others to launch an immediate evacuation effort of our remaining Afghan allies, relocate them to Canada, and safeguard them from Taliban retribution.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is committed to supporting regional efforts and providing assistance to Afghan refugees and host communities. On July 23, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a special immigration program focused on Afghans who provided critical support to Canada’s mission to Afghanistan. On August 13, IRCC announced a humanitarian program to resettle Afghan refugees with a focus on women leaders, human rights defenders, persecuted religious and ethnic minorities, journalists and people who helped Canadian journalists, LGBTI individuals, and extended family members of previously resettled interpreters. Canada has committed to resettling up to 40,000 vulnerable Afghan refugees under these programs.More than 8,500 Afghan refugees, and climbing, have arrived in Canada since the announcement of the special immigration program and more will continue to arrive in the weeks and months ahead. The Government of Canada recognizes that there are still many Afghans who have not been able to travel to Canada under the special immigration program, including some who may have had a relationship with the Government of Canada. IRCC continues to process accepted applications as quickly as possible, but it will take time for people to arrive in Canada.Canada has provided funding to Veterans Transition Network and others to support their efforts to protect vulnerable persons in Afghanistan, including human rights defenders, women peacebuilders, former Canadian Armed Forces interpreters and locally engaged staff. The Government of Canada continues to work closely with various organizations regarding the evolving situation in Afghanistan.Additionally, the Government Canada has allocated $27.3 million in humanitarian assistance early into 2021, with an additional $50 million for Afghanistan and the region announced on August 26, 2021, and most recently, an additional $56 million announced on December 21, 2021, to support the World Food Programme, United Nations High Commission for Refugees, International Committee of the Red Cross, United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and United Nations Children’s Fund over the next 15 months, both inside Afghanistan and in neighbouring countries. This support will help with immediate lifesaving needs of vulnerable Afghans.Canada continues to have discussions with allies and countries in the region to explore avenues to assist those who remain on the ground, as well as those who have already travelled to third countries and wish to come to Canada. Canada is deploying its full diplomatic weight through a variety of channels including through the G7, Five Country forums and the United Nations. The Government of Canada is closely monitoring the situation on the ground and remains committed to responding to the needs of the people of Afghanistan.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.As of February 15, 2022, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has approved applications for more than 10,015 persons under our Special Immigration Measures to resettle Afghan nationals who assisted the Government of Canada along with their family members. We continue to move Afghan refugees as quickly as conditions allow.Afghanistan is currently controlled by the Taliban, a listed terrorist entity for Canada, preventing any diplomatic engagements or negotiations whatsoever and creating significant barriers to facilitating the exit of Afghan nationals from Afghanistan. There is currently no Canadian presence on the ground in Afghanistan due to the ongoing security and safety concerns for both IRCC employees and prospective clients, preventing mandatory security screenings being completed for clients prior to departure from Afghanistan. Crossing Afghanistan’s border is also dangerous for our clients, whether by land or air, particularly given the level of violence reported towards attempted crossers, including reported physical violence, door-to-door searches, and “disappearances” of vulnerable persons. A constantly shifting political climate in the region, as well as current events on the world stage, create additional complications requiring high level diplomatic support and interventions by our federal partners.IRCC recognizes many vulnerable, at-risk Afghans remain in Afghanistan, unable to leave. Our officials have established new partnerships, as well as building on existing ones, to address safety and security constraints limiting the mobility of Afghans person. In addition to engaging closely with countries in the region and developing new partnerships, IRCC has added more employees and resources in our missions abroad ensuring individuals qualified for our Special Immigration Measures are processed to completion quickly once out of Afghanistan. IRCC continues working with existing partners such as Front Line Defenders and Protect Defenders, who have been able to facilitate the movement of some human rights defenders to neighboring countries, and continue establishing new partnerships to find avenues or the resettlement of vulnerable individuals from within Afghanistan. IRCC is also working closely with the Veteran’s Transition Network regarding their operations on the ground in Afghanistan.As of February 15, 2022, 7,885 Afghan nationals arrived in Canada: 4,600 under the Special Immigration Measures, and 3,285 under the humanitarian program.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on IRCC’s website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/refugees/afghanistan/key-figures.html
AfghanistanRefugees
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00089441-00089 (Foreign affairs)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022December 9, 2021Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWHEREAS:
  • The Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (the Magnitsky Law), sanctions foreign officials responsible for gross human rights violations or acts of corruption; and
  • For over 21 years, China's communist party officials have orchestrated the torture and killing of large numbers of people who practice Falun Gong, a spiritual discipline promoting the principles of “Truth, Compassion and Tolerance,” including the killing of practitioners on a mass scale for their vital organs to fuel the communist regime's organ transplant trade.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deploy all legal sanctions, including the freezing of assets, and barring of entry to Canada, against, but not limited to these perpetrators: Jiang Zemin, Luo Gan, Liu Jing, Zhou Yongkang, Bo Xilai, Li lanqing, Wu Guanzheng, Li Dongsheng, Qiang Wei, Huang Jiefu, Zheng Shusen, Wang lijun, Zhang Chaoying, and Jia Chunwang; and
  • Refuse immigration/visitor visa to those who persecuted Falun Gong practitioners in China.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Sean FraserAs part of the immigration application process, all visa applications are carefully assessed for eligibility and admissibility under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a foreign national may be inadmissible to Canada if they have engaged in criminality or human or international rights violations (including being subject to sanctions), or are a family member of an inadmissible person.In 2017, the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (Sergei Magnitsky Law) came into force. It added two new inadmissibility provisions under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act concerning sanctioned government officials or individuals acting on behalf of a foreign state who are responsible for corruption, extrajudicial killings, torture or other gross violations of internationally recognized human rights. A foreign national listed in an order or regulation made by the Governor in Council under the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act would be inadmissible.If an applicant is determined to be inadmissible on any ground, they may be refused a visa, electronic travel authorization or entry to Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis by Immigration Officers and are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents—such as media articles, scholarly journals or publicly-available information.In addition, if a foreign national who is at the border, or is in Canada, is found to be inadmissible, they may be denied entry or ordered to leave Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency is responsible for immigration enforcement at the border and in Canada.For privacy reasons, individual cases cannot be discussed.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsFalun GongForeign policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00529441-00529 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022January 28, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: That, all human life should be regarded with great respect, from conception to natural death.Therefore we, the undersigned request the Canadian Parliament and Government to: Support measures which protect human life.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeEveryone has the right to make decisions about their health and body. The Supreme Court of Canada in 1988 struck down Canada’s criminal law against abortion, and the Government took the necessary steps to complete the repeal of those provisions by introducing amendments to take them off the books, which were enacted in 2019. Our Government is committed to upholding all the rights enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, including section 7, which provides that everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice. Section 7 includes some protection against government interference with an individual’s access to abortion care. Section 7 also generally protects an individual’s right to control their bodily integrity, and a sphere of personal autonomy involving inherently private choices that go to the core of what it means to enjoy individual dignity and independence. Our government will always protect and promote women’s rights in Canada and around the world.
Health care system
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 14, 2022441-00419441-00419 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMay 9, 2022June 14, 2022December 15, 2020PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding protecting young persons online – a very important issue. The Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians. As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content, including child sexual exploitation content and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.The Government is committed to getting this right. From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The Government subsequently released a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways from the consultation. As a next step following the release of the report, on March 30, 2022, the Government announced the creation of an expert advisory group to generate advice on a revised legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The advisory group’s objective is to provide advice to support the Government in developing legislation on online safety. The group’s discussions include topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online, child sexual exploitation, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.  Engagement with the expert group is done in an open and transparent manner, so that all interested parties can follow along. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlAll Canadians should be able to express themselves online without being subject to hateful or threatening attacks. The Government will take some time to further engage with experts, stakeholders and interested parties to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online.  
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00579441-00579 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 14, 2022September 20, 2022March 8, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, conversion therapy has historically referred to coercive, degrading actions that seek to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity which are wrong and should be banned;Whereas, Bill C-6 defines conversion therapy as "a practice, treatment or service designed to change a person's sexual orientation to heterosexual, to change a person's gender identity or gender expression to cisgender or to repress or reduce non-heterosexual attraction or sexual behavior or non-cisgender gender expression";Whereas, this broad definition wrongly applies the label "conversion therapy" to a broad range of practices, including counsel from parents, teachers, and counsellors encouraging children to reduce sexual behavior;Whereas, Bill C-6 expressly allows counselling, medical, and surgical efforts to change a child's gender, but prohibits support for a child seeking to de-transition to his or her birth (cis) gender;Whereas, Bill C-6 could restrict the choices of LGBTQ2 Canadians concerning sexuality and gender by prohibiting access to any professional or spiritual support freely chosen to limit sexual behaviour or de-transition.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Ban coercive, degrading practices that are designed to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity;2. Amend Bill C-6 to Fix the Definition of Conversion Therapy, thus banning Conversion Therapy without banning voluntary counselling or criminalizing conversations; and3. Allow parents to speak with their own children about sexuality and gender, and to set house rules about sex and relationships.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeSo-called conversion therapy is a cruel and degrading practice, which has physical and mental impacts on those who undergo it, in some cases to the point of death. Conversion therapy is a scientifically discredited practice that discriminates against 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians by telling them that they should change a fundamental part of who they are – their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Our Government is proud to have passed former Bill C-4,  An Act to amend the Criminal Code (conversion therapy), which criminalizes causing another person to undergo conversion therapy, removing a minor from Canada to subject them to conversion therapy abroad, profiting from conversion therapy and advertising or promoting it.So-called conversion therapy harms and further stigmatizes sexual and gender-diverse persons and undermines their equality and dignity. No Canadian should be subjected to this practice, which is based on the false pretense that a person's sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression can and should be altered according to a narrow belief of what is considered "natural" or "normal". The consensus demonstrated by all Parliamentarians in Canada on former Bill C-4 is part of an emerging global consensus surrounding the real and life-long harms for conversion therapy victims and survivors, and our Government is proud to be a global leader in ending this abhorrent practice.
An Act to amend the Criminal Code (conversion therapy)Conversion therapyGender identity and gender expressionSexual minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00533441-00533 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 6, 2022June 21, 2022April 20, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas the Canadian Parliament has unanimously passed the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act, also known as the Sergei Magnitsky Act, to sanction corrupt foreign officials who, among others, are responsible for gross violations of internationally recognized human rights;Whereas the Former Chinese Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin and his cohorts personally ordered, launched, orchestrated and executed the eradication campaign against Falun Gong using state apparatus, including the extrajudicial torture and killing of Falun Gong practitioners in large numbers with impunity for the past 19 years for their beliefs in "truthfulness, compassion and tolerance”; and whereas Falun Gong practitioners have been killed for their organs in China on a massive scale, which has been well documented and widely reported;Whereas extensive evidence points to fourteen key officials and former officials of the Chinese communist regime who demonstrate prime culpability in the human rights atrocities committed against Falun Gong practitioners in China.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Government of Canada to deploy all legal sanctions, including the freezing of assets, and barring of entry to Canada, against these perpetrators under the Sergei Magnitsky Act.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Ministers stressed the importance of frank dialogue, and that with our strong cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries must pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsForeign policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00111441-00111 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022April 20, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas the Canadian Parliament has unanimously passed the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act, also known as the Sergei Magnitsky Act, to sanction corrupt foreign officials who, among others, are responsible for gross violations of internationally recognized human rights;Whereas the Former Chinese Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin and his cohorts personally ordered, launched, orchestrated and executed the eradication campaign against Falun Gong using state apparatus, including the extrajudicial torture and killing of Falun Gong practitioners in large numbers with impunity for the past 19 years for their beliefs in "truthfulness, compassion and tolerance”; and whereas Falun Gong practitioners have been killed for their organs in China on a massive scale, which has been well documented and widely reported;Whereas extensive evidence points to fourteen key officials and former officials of the Chinese communist regime who demonstrate prime culpability in the human rights atrocities committed against Falun Gong practitioners in China.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Government of Canada to deploy all legal sanctions, including the freezing of assets, and barring of entry to Canada, against these perpetrators under the Sergei Magnitsky Act.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsForeign policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00968441-00968 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023November 29, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00963441-00963 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023November 29, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 13, 2022441-00470441-00470 (Justice)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONMay 13, 2022June 13, 2022November 29, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01004441-01004 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023May 30, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01042441-01042 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01050441-01050 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01041441-01041 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01040441-01040 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 10, 2022441-00459441-00459 (Justice)DaneLloydSturgeon River—ParklandConservativeABMay 13, 2022June 10, 2022June 19, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00974441-00974 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00978441-00978 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00976441-00976 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01061441-01061 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00986441-00986 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00994441-00994 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00972441-00972 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02124441-02124 (Public safety)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024November 12, 2020Petition to the Government of Canada We, the undersigned Citizens and Residents of Canada draw the attention of the Government of Canada to the following:
  • That highly damaging noise levels repeatedly reach the ears of firearm users despite the use of traditional hearing protection;
  • That section 7 of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms recognises an individual's right to personal health and safety;
  • That sound moderators are the only universally recognised health and safety device that has a criminal prohibition in Canada;
  • That, as affirmed in Bedford v. Canada at the Supreme Court of Canada, one cannot be prevented from taking reasonable steps to improve personal safety in a hazardous situation;
  • That the majority of G7 nations and many others have recognised the health and safety benefits involved, and allow the legal use of sound moderators by hunters and sport shooters;
  • That sound moderators reduce noise pollution and noise complaints in communities with shooting ranges, in rural and farm communities, and in areas used for recreational activities where hunting and target shooting is legal;
  • That sound moderators facilitate significantly increased humane husbandry of game animals, livestock, and pets as hunting companions;
  • That hearing damage is a significant quality of life and public health issue costing taxpayers millions annually.
THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Take a stand and empower Canadians to be responsible for their own health and safety by removing the prohibition of sound moderators from the Criminal Code of Canada;
  • Allow the legal acquisition, possession, and use of sound moderators on firearms by all licensed firearms users in Canada;
  • Call upon the provinces and territories to amend provincial and territorial prohibitions and allow the use of sound moderators while engaged in all legal hunting and sport shooting activities.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government believes in implementing effective measures with respect to firearms that prioritize public safety, while remaining mindful of the impact of such measures on firearms owners and businesses.Any device or contrivance designed or intended to muffle or stop the sound or report of a firearm has been unlawful in Canada since the early 1900s. These items are prescribed as prohibited devices in the Regulations Prescribing Certain Firearms and Other Weapons, Components and Parts of Weapons, Accessories, Cartridge Magazines, Ammunition and Projectiles as Prohibited or Restricted. Sound reduction or elimination diminishes the public’s ability to react to gun shots and makes it difficult for law enforcement to become aware of a possible criminal incident.         Firearms owners can make use of other forms of hearing protection that are commonly available and that do not adversely impact public safety.
Gun controlHearing health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01002441-01002 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01023441-01023 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 24, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00997441-00997 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00999441-00999 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01024441-01024 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 24, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 28, 2022441-00172441-00172 (Justice)EricMelilloKenoraConservativeONFebruary 10, 2022March 28, 2022September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01016441-01016 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023September 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01031441-01031 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023July 17, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01062441-01062 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00380441-00380 (Justice)RichardBragdonTobique—MactaquacConservativeNBApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00102441-00102 (Justice)JeremyPatzerCypress Hills—GrasslandsConservativeSKDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00036441-00036 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022June 15, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 3, 2022441-00232441-00232 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONMarch 22, 2022May 3, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 3, 2022441-00233441-00233 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONMarch 22, 2022May 3, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00977441-00977 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 3, 2022441-00236441-00236 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONMarch 22, 2022May 3, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00662441-00662 (Justice)TakoVan PoptaLangley—AldergroveConservativeBCSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 20, 2022441-00365441-00365 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABApril 6, 2022May 20, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 17, 2022441-00342441-00342 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 4, 2022May 17, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00678441-00678 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00675441-00675 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00676441-00676 (Justice)RickPerkinsSouth Shore—St. MargaretsConservativeNSSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 15, 2022441-00468441-00468 (Justice)MichaelBarrettLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau LakesConservativeONMay 13, 2022June 15, 2022June 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01044441-01044 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 20, 2022441-00363441-00363 (Justice)GeraldSorokaYellowheadConservativeABApril 6, 2022May 20, 2022June 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00123441-00123 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 2, 2022March 21, 2022June 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01064441-01064 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 20, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00083441-00083 (Justice)TonyBaldinelliNiagara FallsConservativeONDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 3, 2022441-00235441-00235 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONMarch 22, 2022May 3, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 3, 2022441-00234441-00234 (Justice)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONMarch 22, 2022May 3, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00899441-00899 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 30, 2022January 18, 2023June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00886441-00886 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 28, 2022January 18, 2023June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00713441-00713 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 27, 2022November 14, 2022June 5, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw. the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, it has been 17 years since the Chinese communist regime launched a persecution to “eradicate” Falun Gong—a spiritual practice centred on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance;Whereas, millions of Falun Gong practitioners have been arbitrarily detained, including family members of Canadians. The mass extrajudicial imprisonment, forced labour, torture, rape, and killing along with hate propaganda have been reported by all major human rights organizations;Whereas, an update report released in June 2016 indicates that prisoners of conscience, primarily Falun Gong practitioners, have been killed on demand to fuel a massive state-run transplant industry, supplying most of the organs for an estimated 60,000-100,000 transplants a year in Chinese hospitals since 2000. It could mean that at least hundreds of thousands Falun Gong practitioners have been murdered for their organs over the last 15 years;Whereas, the U.S. House of Representatives and European Parliament passed resolutions in June 2016 and December 2013 respectively condemning and calling for an immediate end to China's systematic and state sanctioned organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience, including Falun Gong. In February 2015, Canada's Parliamentary Subcommittee on International Human Rights unanimously passed a similar motion; andWhereas, since May 2015, over 200,000 Chinese citizens have filed criminal complaints against former Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin, who orchestrated the persecution of Falun Gong;Therefore, we, the undersigned, request that the Canadian Parliament and government:
  • Establish measures to stop the Chinese regime's mass murder of innocent people for their organs, including but not limited to introducing Canadian legislation to ban organ tourism and criminalize those involved;
  • Take every opportunity to call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong; and
  • Urge the Chinese authorities to bring former leader Jiang Zemin and his cohorts to justice.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Ministers stressed the importance of frank dialogue, and that with our strong cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries must pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China.On July 8, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the margins of the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting. She once again reiterated Canada’s concerns with human rights in China.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 15, 2022441-00475441-00475 (Justice)LarryMaguireBrandon—SourisConservativeMBMay 13, 2022June 15, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00673441-00673 (Justice)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00122441-00122 (Justice)MarkStrahlChilliwack—HopeConservativeBCFebruary 2, 2022March 21, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 1, 2022441-00401441-00401 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 25, 2022June 1, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 8, 2022441-00444441-00444 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 11, 2022June 8, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00385441-00385 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00373441-00373 (Justice)GlenMotzMedicine Hat—Cardston—WarnerConservativeABApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00534441-00534 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00050441-00050 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 13, 2021January 31, 2022June 7, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00654441-00654 (Justice)Hon.EdFastAbbotsfordConservativeBCSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2022441-00453441-00453 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 11, 2022June 9, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00841441-00841 (Justice)MichaelBarrettLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau LakesConservativeONNovember 4, 2022January 18, 2023June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01021441-01021 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01020441-01020 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00674441-00674 (Justice)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2022441-00781441-00781 (Justice)BernardGénéreuxMontmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-LoupConservativeQCOctober 24, 2022December 7, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00062441-00062 (Justice)EricMelilloKenoraConservativeONDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00665441-00665 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 25, 2022441-00159441-00159 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 9, 2022March 25, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01080441-01080 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJanuary 30, 2023March 20, 2023June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, it has been 17 years since the Chinese communist regime launched a persecution to "eradicate" Falun Gong a spiritual practice centred on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance;Whereas, millions of Falun Gong practitioners have been arbitrarily detained, including family members of Canadians. The mass extrajudicial imprisonment, forced labour, torture, rape, and killing along with hate propaganda have been reported by major human rights organizations;Whereas, an update report released in June 2016 by three reputable investigators David Kilgour, David Matas and Ethan Gutmann indicates that prisoners of conscience, primarily Falun Gong practitioners, have been killed on demand to fuel a massive state-run transplant industry, supplying most of the organs for an estimated tens of thousands transplants a year in Chinese hospitals since 2000;Whereas, the U.S. House of Representatives and European Parliament passed resolutions in June 2016 and December 2013 respectively condemning and calling for an immediate end to China's systematic and statesanctioned organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience, including Falun Gong. In February 2015, Canada's Parliamentary Subcommittee on International Human Rights unanimously passed a similar motion; andWhereas, since May 2015, over 200,000 Chinese citizens have filed criminal complaints against former Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin who orchestrated the persecution of Falun Gong.Therefore, we, the undersigned, request that the Canadian Parliament and government:
  • Establish measures to stop the Chinese regime's mass murder of innocent people for their organs, including but not limited to introducing Canadian legislation to ban organ tourism and criminalize those involved; and
  • Take every opportunity to call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, including Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.On December 14, 2022, Bill S-223 regarding organ harvesting and trafficking, which parliamentarians have linked to Uyghurs and Falun Dafa practitioners in China, was adopted unanimously at third reading in the House of Commons by a vote of 324-0. Bill S-223 then received Royal Assent the following day. Bill S-223 will make it a criminal offence for a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident to go abroad to receive an organ taken from someone who did not give informed consent to the removal of the organ. Canada joins jurisdictions such as the UK, Italy, Israel, Belgium, Norway, Spain, and South Korea and Taiwan that have passed legislation to combat forced organ harvesting, organ transplant tourism, and organ trafficking.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The Government’s newly released Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) also directly outlines Canada’s approach to China. China’s rise as a global actor is reshaping the strategic outlook of every state in the region, including Canada. The third pillar of the IPS specifically invests in people, development, and the defense of human rights in the Indo Pacific region. Canada will never apologize for pursuing its national interests, which includes upholding global rules that govern human rights.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits, public statements, representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, interventions and advocacy by its diplomatic missions, and outreach to civil society.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. This includes regular meetings with Canadian civil society organizations focused on the situation of human rights in China.The Government of Canada has presented and continues to present its concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2022441-00431441-00431 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 10, 2022June 20, 2022June 8, 2018 PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw. the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, it has been 17 years since the Chinese communist regime launched a persecution to “eradicate” Falun Gong—a spiritual practice centred on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance;Whereas, millions of Falun Gong practitioners have been arbitrarily detained, including family members of Canadians. The mass extrajudicial imprisonment, forced labour, torture, rape, and killing along with hate propaganda have been reported by all major human rights organizations;Whereas, an update report released in June 2016 indicates that prisoners of conscience, primarily Falun Gong practitioners, have been killed on demand to fuel a massive state-run transplant industry, supplying most of the organs for an estimated 60,000-100,000 transplants a year in Chinese hospitals since 2000. It could mean that at least hundreds of thousands Falun Gong practitioners have been murdered for their organs over the last 15 years;Whereas, the U.S. House of Representatives and European Parliament passed resolutions in June 2016 and December 2013 respectively condemning and calling for an immediate end to China's systematic and statesanctioned organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience, including Falun Gong. In February 2015, Canada's Parliamentary Subcommittee on International Human Rights unanimously passed a similar motion; andWhereas, since May 2015, over 200,000 Chinese citizens have filed criminal complaints against former Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin, who orchestrated the persecution of Falun Gong;Therefore, we, the undersigned, request that the Canadian Parliament and government:
  • Establish measures to stop the Chinese regime's mass murder of innocent people for their organs, including but not limited to introducing Canadian legislation to ban organ tourism and criminalize those involved;
  • Take every opportunity to call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong; and
  • Urge the Chinese authorities to bring former leader Jiang Zemin and his cohorts to justice.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Ministers stressed the importance of frank dialogue, and that with our strong cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries must pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01014441-01014 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01039441-01039 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01018441-01018 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00979441-00979 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00524441-00524 (Civil and human rights)DanMuysFlamborough—GlanbrookConservativeONJune 6, 2022August 17, 2022May 27, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement a comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, to help keep Canadian travellers safe, and ensure the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.The public health and safety measures that the Government of Canada has implemented have been and will continue to be based on the best public health advice and science available. As the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved, so too have public health measures and advice. The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate measures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure.Vaccination continues to be one of the most effective tools to protect Canadians, including younger Canadians, the healthcare system and economy. Everyone in Canada needs to keep up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccines, including booster doses to get ready for the fall. The Government of Canada will continue to work with provinces and territories to help even more Canadians get the shots they are eligible for.Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation SectorIn August 2021, the Government of Canada announced mandatory vaccination requirements for the federal workforce, federally regulated transportation sector, and certain travellers. These requirements, which came into effect on October 30, 2021, made vaccination against COVID-19 a requirement to board a plane, train or certain vessels in Canada, and required federally regulated transport sector employers to put in place mandatory vaccination policies for their employees. To support the safe resumption of cruise ship travel, which began in April 2022, travellers and crew on cruise ships are also required to be fully vaccinated.On June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. Other public health measures, such as wearing a mask, continue to apply and will be enforced throughout a traveller’s journey on a plane or train. This change does not affect border measures that require all travellers entering Canada to continue following entry requirements, including vaccination.The Government of Canada’s decision to suspend the mandatory vaccination requirement for the domestic transportation sector was informed by key indicators, including the evolution of the virus; the epidemiologic situation and modelling (stabilization of infection and hospitalizations across the country); vaccine science; and high levels of vaccination in Canada against COVID-19.Federally regulated transportation sector employers: As of June 20, 2022, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors no longer need to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees. Employers will be responsible for establishing return-to-work practices.Cruise Travel: Given the unique nature of cruise ships, including the fact that passengers are in close contact with each other for extended periods of time, and Canada’s border requirements, vaccination against COVID-19 is still required for passengers and crew on cruise ships operating in Canadian waters. Adherence to strict public health requirements on cruise ships will still be required.Border MeasuresEarly in the pandemic, it was recognized that truckers and other workers performed services that were essential to keeping goods and services flowing, and they were allowed exemptions from strict border requirements put in place for most cross-border travellers.In January 2022, the Minister of Health, using the Quarantine Act, implemented vaccination requirements for some foreign national essential workers entering Canada, including Canadian and foreign national commercial truck drivers. The United States implemented similar measures in January as well, affecting foreign nationals.While the suspension of domestic vaccine mandates reflects an improved public health situation in Canada, the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve and circulate in Canada and globally. Given this context, and because vaccination rates and virus control in other countries varies significantly, current vaccination requirements at the border continue to remain in effect. This will reduce the potential impact of international travel on the health care system and serve as added protection against any future variant.  
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00479441-00479 (Environment)AlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNDPQCMay 17, 2022August 17, 2022May 11, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The G&R Recycling facility in Kanehsatà:ke, Québec, has been reported to contain toxic waste without permits or precautions to prevent spillage into the environment;
  • Health experts cited in the Toronto Star identify this waste as a threat to human health and environmental watchdog groups warn that these toxins may eventually taint waterways that affect the lives of millions of citizens;
  • The G&R site is no isolated incident;
  • Throughout our country, there is a shameful legacy of unregulated and dangerous waste sites allowed to operate on Indigenous lands and adjacent to the homes of Canada's racialized populations;
  • Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is a national priority and a growing consensus is building around the need to act on environmental racism; and
  • Strong policies and the political will to act on them are needed to prevent future sites similar to G&R, from harming the health and well-being of coming generations of Indigenous and racialized citizens.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled:
  • To mobilize the vast resources of the federal government to immediately secure and decontaminate this dump site in Kanehsatà:ke and others like it; and
  • To put forward concrete plans to enact the measures addressing systemic environmental racism as now proposed in the Private Member's Bill C-226 (National Strategy Respecting Environmental Racism and Environmental Justice Act).
Response by the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern OntarioSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Vance BadaweyEnvironmental protection, including proper waste management, is a priority for Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and over the past few years, ISC programming has been greatly expanded. In 2016, the Government of Canada launched the First Nation Solid Waste Management Initiative (FNSWMI), allocating $409 million over five years to support the development of sustainable community waste management systems in First Nations communities through modern infrastructure, operations, training and partnerships. The FNSWMI was renewed in Budget 2017 with an additional $540 million over seven years starting in 2021-22. Budget 2021 also allocated another $195 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support the operation and maintenance of waste facilities that address the needs of the community. These investments are having a significant impact on the management of waste on reserve lands.In addition, if Bill 226, An Act respecting the development of a national strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and to advance environmental justice (National Strategy Respecting Environmental Racism and Environmental Justice Act) is passed by Parliament, ISC will support other government departments in the development of a National Strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and to advance environmental justice in Canada.G & R Recycling G.P. has not respected the conditions of the 2015 authorization issued by the Government of Quebec to operate the site. This authorization was therefore revoked on October 5, 2020. Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a directive under the Fisheries Act on November 18, 2020 advising G & R Recycling G.P. of “an unauthorized deposit of deleterious substances into waters frequented by fish” and instructed the company to implement a number of corrective measures. Subsequently, the Kanesatake Band Council revoked an authorization it had granted to the company on November 3, 2021.The potential negative impact that these activities are having on the environment and the people living in the area are very concerning. Indigenous Services Canada is supporting Environment and Climate Change Canada and Quebec’s ministère de l’environnement et de la lutte contre les changements climatiques in their discussions with the Band Council to find permanent solutions to this issue.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTIn Canada, the federal government applies “the polluter pays” principle that is, the party responsible for producing pollution should be responsible for paying for damage to the natural environment. Private companies are expected to clean up (or remediate) the land they contaminate. The provinces, territories and federal government are generally responsible for the cost to deal with contamination at the sites they own or lease.The Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP) was established in 2005 as a 15-year program with funding of $4.54 billion from the Government of Canada. The program was renewed for another 15 years (2020 to 2034) with $1.16 billion announced in Budget 2019 for the first five years, Phase IV which runs from 2020 to 2024. The objective of FCSAP is to reduce environmental and human health risks from known federal contaminated sites, including contaminated sites on reserve lands and in the North for which the federal government is responsible.In FCSAP Phase IV (2020 to 2024), custodians continue to remediate the highest priority federal contaminated sites – those that pose the highest risks to the environment and human health. For Phase IV, program eligibility criteria was expanded to improve program efficiency and to allow more sites to be addressed that may impact Indigenous people living on reserves or in Northern communities. Over the past three years, Environment and Climate Change Canada and Indigenous Services Canada have provided technical support to the Environment Office of the Mohawk Council of Kanesatake in order to help the community address environmental issues on its territory.Private Member's Bill C-226, An Act respecting the development of a national strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and to advance environmental justice, proposes the development of a national strategy to assess, prevent and address environmental racism and advance environmental justice, in consultation or cooperation with any interested persons, bodies, organizations or communities — including Indigenous communities. The Prime Minister has confirmed support for the Bill, which aligns with the Government’s plan to develop an environmental justice strategy and examine the link between race, socio-economic status and exposure to environmental risk.  
Environmental contaminationG & R RecyclingKanesatake First NationWaste management
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00689441-00689 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 22, 2022November 14, 2022May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, on the advice, guidance, and recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Government of Canada, including Transport Canada, put in place a range of measures to mitigate transportation safety and security risks associated with COVID-19. Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement the comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures.These measures have evolved throughout the pandemic, based on the best available science, as well as guidance from PHAC, have made a real difference in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and have kept Canadian travellers and transportation workers safe, ensuring the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation Sector: On June 20th, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. In addition, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors are no longer required to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees. Border Measures: Effective October 1, 2022, the Government of Canada removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada. In effect, as of October 1, 2022, all travellers, regardless of citizenship, will no longer have to:
  • submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
  • provide proof of vaccination;
  • undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
  • carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada.
COVID-19 Requirements in the Transportation Sector: In alignment with PHACs adjustments to border measures, Transport Canada also removed all existing travel requirements as of October 1, 2022. As such, as of October 1, travellers are no longer required to undergo health checks for air and rail travel, or wear masks on planes and trains. Although the masking requirement is lifted, all travellers are strongly recommended to continue wearing high quality and well-fitted masks during their journeys. Cruise measures were also lifted, and travellers are no longer required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use ArriveCAN. A set of guidelines remain in place to protect passengers and crew, which align with the approach used in the United States.The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate measures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure. 
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00536441-00536 (Foreign affairs)DanMuysFlamborough—GlanbrookConservativeONJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022April 8, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 85% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's implementation of visa-free travel for Ukrainians to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately waive all visa requirements and grant visa-free travel to Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada. Canada and Ukraine maintain a close friendship built on shared values and strong-people-to-people ties.Canada has implemented a number of effective immigration solutions to help the people of Ukraine, including the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on March 17, 2022. The CUAET is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) to seek temporary safe haven in Canada. This new measure eases many of the normal visa requirements, eliminates most application and processing fees, and offers accelerated processing. Key Ukrainian immigration figures can be found on a dedicated webpage.Canada’s visa policy decisions are made on a country-by-country basis. A range of objective criteria are considered before lifting a country’s visa requirement, involving a complex process similar to those of like-minded partners. Canada’s relationship with the country is a key consideration, but so too is the safety and security of Canadians, and the importance of maintaining a well-managed migration system. It takes time to complete a comprehensive visa review, and Ukrainians need help urgently. Ukraine’s visa requirement is not currently under review, but the situation is being monitored very closely to ensure the people of Ukraine continue to receive the support they need.
Passports and visasRefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 15, 2023441-01906441-01906 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 7, 2023December 15, 2023May 2, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00806441-00806 (Social affairs and equality)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022May 2, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01077441-01077 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJanuary 30, 2023March 20, 2023May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, on the advice, guidance, and recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Government of Canada, including Transport Canada, put in place a range of measures to mitigate transportation safety and security risks associated with COVID-19.Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement a comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures, that have evolved throughout the pandemic, based on the best available science, as well as guidance from PHAC. The measures made a real difference in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and have kept Canadian travellers and transportation workers safe, ensuring the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation Sector: On June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. In addition, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors are no longer required to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees.Border Measures: On October 1, 2022, the Government of Canada removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, meaning that all travellers, regardless of citizenship, will no longer have to:
  • submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
  • provide proof of vaccination;
  • undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
  • carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada.
COVID-19 Requirements in the Transportation Sector: In alignment with PHAC’s adjustments to border measures, Transport Canada also removed all existing travel requirements as of October 1, 2022. As such, travellers are no longer required to undergo health checks for air and rail travel, or wear masks on planes and trains. All travellers are strongly recommended to continue wearing high quality and well-fitted masks during their journeys. Cruise measures were also lifted, and travellers are no longer required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use the ArriveCAN app. A set of guidelines remains in place to protect passengers and crew, which align with the approach used in the United States.The decision to roll back the mandatory vaccination requirements were informed by key indicators, including the evolution of the virus, the epidemiologic situation and modelling, vaccine science, and high levels of vaccination in Canada against COVID-19.While the suspension of vaccination requirements is a clear reflection of an improved public health situation in Canada, the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve and circulate within our communities domestically and across the globe. Given this context and because vaccination rates and virus controls vary significantly from country to country, the developing situation in China has raised significant concern.In response to a surge of COVID-19 following the removal of COVID-19 restrictions in China, combined with the limited epidemiological and viral genomic sequence data being made available, the Government of Canada put in place certain temporary health measures for air travellers entering Canada from China, Hong Kong, and Macao, effective January 5, 2023.Transport Canada is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the transportation sector, its employees, and the importance of allowing the flow of goods and services safely. The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate measures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure. 
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00535441-00535 (Foreign affairs)DanMuysFlamborough—GlanbrookConservativeONJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022April 7, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 80% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's decision to allow Ukrainians to stay in Canada permanently.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately implement a government-assisted refugee program for Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada is committed to helping Ukrainians and has announced a number of measures to help people affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. For Ukrainians who want to come to Canada temporarily, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel opened as of March 17, 2022, to an unlimited number of Ukrainians and their immediate family members fleeing the war. This is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members to come to Canada and eliminates many of the normal visa requirements. As of June 1, 2022, IRCC has already received more than 278,000 applications under this program and approved over 127,000 applications. The latest key figures are available on the IRCC Website. On March 30, 2022, the Government of Canada announced that Ukrainians entering Canada as temporary residents will have access to settlement services, which are typically only available to permanent residents. Settlement services include language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports for Ukrainians as they settle into their new communities.  On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced additional measures including targeted charter flights; short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met; and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. Further, in recognition that many Canadians and permanent residents have family in Ukraine, IRCC is quickly implementing a special family reunification sponsorship pathway. On May 11, 2022, the Government of Canada announced three federal charter flights to Canada from Warsaw, Poland for people approved through the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel program and their family members. The first charter flight brought 328 Ukrainians to Winnipeg, Manitoba, on May 23, and the second brought 306 people to Montréal, Quebec, on May 29. The third federal charter flight carrying 319 Ukrainians arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia on June 2, 2022. Furthermore, on June 2, 2022, the Government of Canada announced that Ukrainians arriving in Canada can apply to receive a direct, one-time transitional financial assistance payment, to help them meet their basic needs while they get settled in communities across the country.While the measures above fall outside of Canada’s Refugee Resettlement Program, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel allows for large numbers of Ukrainians in need to arrive in Canada more quickly than traditional refugee pathways.  The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) or other designated referral agency refers refugees to the Government of Canada under the Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR) Program. Individuals who are most at risk of persecution and have no other access to a durable solution may be referred under Canada’s resettlement programs. Individuals cannot apply directly to become a Government Assisted Refugee.The Government will continue to monitor the evolving situation in Ukraine, and engage with provinces, territories, and other partners on how we can continue to collectively support these efforts.
RefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00279441-00279 (Foreign affairs)YvanBakerEtobicoke CentreLiberalONMarch 25, 2022May 9, 2022March 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • With sorrow in our hearts, we desperately appeal to the world community in regard to Ukraine, where because of a full-scale Russian invasion more than 2,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, a preliminary estimate, as this number does not include Ukrainian military casualties, and no exact data is available at this time;
  • So far, rescuers have managed to save the lives of more than 150 people, extinguished more than 400 fires that broke out because of Russian shelling, and evacuated more than 500 people. 416 explosive devices in total have been neutralized, 10 rescuers were killed and 13 were injured in the process;
  • 50 children died from the shelling of Russian aggressors and the bombing of peaceful cities;
  • About 2 million Ukrainian women and children have left their destroyed homes and are forced to leave their homeland;
  • Russians came to liberate Ukraine, but their "liberation” has brought about the death of at least 2,000 peaceful Ukrainians, including innocent children. Houses, kindergartens, schools, airports and roads are indiscriminately being destroyed by their weapons; and
  • The world must not avert their eyes and allow history to repeat itself, and it must not forgive nor forget Russian fascism disguised as a "liberation" mission.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately create a no-fly zone over Ukraine if innocent civilian lives are to be saved.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its likeminded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence, including through the authorization of more than $160 million in military aid, and an additional $500 million announced on April 7 as part of the federal budget announcement. Military aid includes rocket launchers, grenades, anti-tank weapons, small arms, and ammunition. Canada has also recently contributed M777 howitzers, on which Canadian troops will be training Ukrainian forces, a large number of additional Carl Gustaf anti-armour ammunition, and finalized contracts for eight commercial patterned armoured vehicles that will be sent to Ukraine as soon as possible. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada has been supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, PSOPs has developed in excess of $9 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against nearly 1000 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation. Most recently, Canada sanctioned another 33 military entities directly or indirectly supporting the Russian government. These decisions will help undermine and erode the capabilities of the Russian and Belarusian military.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime, until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.Budget 2022 is now proposing measures to not only seize but to allow for the forfeiture and disposal of the assets of sanctioned individuals and entities. These measures will further allow Canada to redistribute the proceeds of these forfeitures for post-war reconstruction, restoration of international peace and security, and compensation to victims These changes will make Canada’s sanctions regime a leader in the G7.On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has announced $245 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. To date, $145 million has been allocated to United Nations organizations, the Red Cross Movement and non-governmental organizations. This also includes a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that addresses emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they can meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $300 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Budget 2022 announced that Canada will offer up to $1 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada led in the referral of the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account.Ukraine filed an application with the International Court of Justice to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. The Court granted provisional measures, including ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine. Canada welcomed the Court’s order and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate and gather evidence.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with likeminded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of April 24, more than 20, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the widespread destruction of cities and civilian infrastructure due to missile and artillery strikes, as well as bombing by Russian airplanes. Only the UN Security Council (UNSC) can make a legally binding decision that all member States must refrain from flight to, from or through the airspace of a specific State or region, pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII. In the current situation, Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, would veto any such resolution.Enforcing a no-fly zone is not a passive act; it would require sending aircraft and ground-based air defence systems from NATO Member States to target and possibly shoot down Russian aircraft violating the airspace in question, in order to prevent that aircraft from carrying out offensive operations on the terrain below.This would be a use of force, making the country that conducted the strike a party to the conflict, and it would also mean that NATO Member States would become targets themselves.NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has stated that imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine would “significantly escalate the war”, risking a “full-fledged war in Europe” between NATO and Russia and lead to “much more human suffering, civilian casualties, destruction”. This is why NATO Allies are providing significant support to Ukraine through sanctions, military aid and in multilateral forums, while not directly engaging in the conflict.We will continue to support Ukraine, including by providing them with the military aid they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Air defenceRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00267441-00267 (Foreign affairs)PatKellyCalgary Rocky RidgeConservativeABMarch 24, 2022May 9, 2022March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 85% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's implementation of visa-free travel for Ukrainians to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately waive all visa requirements and grant visa-free travel to Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada. Canada and Ukraine maintain a close friendship built on shared values and strong-people-to-people ties.Canada has implemented a number of effective immigration solutions to help the people of Ukraine, including the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on March 17, 2022. The CUAET is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) to seek temporary safe haven in Canada. This new measure eases many of the normal visa requirements, eliminates most application and processing fees, and offers accelerated processing.Canada’s visa policy decisions are made on a country-by-country basis. A range of objective criteria are considered before lifting a country’s visa requirement, involving a complex process similar to those of like-minded partners. Canada’s relationship with the country is a key consideration, but so too is the safety and security of Canadians, and the importance of maintaining a well-managed migration system. It takes time to complete a comprehensive visa review, and Ukrainians need help urgently. Ukraine’s visa requirement is not currently under review, but the situation is being monitored very closely to ensure the people of Ukraine continue to receive the support they need.
Passports and visasRefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 10, 2022441-00280441-00280 (Foreign affairs)JamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—EastmanConservativeMBMarch 28, 2022May 10, 2022March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 85% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's implementation of visa-free travel for Ukrainians to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately waive all visa requirements and grant visa-free travel to Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada. Canada and Ukraine maintain a close friendship built on shared values and strong-people-to-people ties.Canada has implemented a number of effective immigration solutions to help the people of Ukraine, including the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on March 17, 2022. The CUAET is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) to seek temporary safe haven in Canada. This new measure eases many of the normal visa requirements, eliminates most application and processing fees, and offers accelerated processing.Canada’s visa policy decisions are made on a country-by-country basis. A range of objective criteria are considered before lifting a country’s visa requirement, involving a complex process similar to those of like-minded partners. Canada’s relationship with the country is a key consideration, but so too is the safety and security of Canadians, and the importance of maintaining a well-managed migration system. It takes time to complete a comprehensive visa review, and Ukrainians need help urgently. Ukraine’s visa requirement is not currently under review, but the situation is being monitored very closely to ensure the people of Ukraine continue to receive the support they need.
Passports and visasRefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00499441-00499 (Foreign affairs)LenWebberCalgary ConfederationConservativeABMay 19, 2022August 17, 2022March 24, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • Russian President Putin has threatened all other nations, including Canada, that are assisting the people of Ukraine in their valiant defence of their country;
  • The Russian Federation poses a great and immediate risk to Ukraine and her allies;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine, such as being the first country to recognize their independence in 1991; and
  • Since 1992, Ukraine participated in various UN and NATO peacekeeping operations.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Provide direct military assistance and further lethal weapons and supplies to the defence of Ukraine; and 2. Immediately urge NATO allies and Ukraine-friendly countries to close the airspace over Ukraine, deploy peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, and support the Ukrainian people.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of June 15, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Provision of Military FundingIn September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since February 2022, National Defence has committed $274 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, drone cameras, funding for high-resolution satellite imagery, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Canada has committed $147.3 million of the $500 million announced in assistance to Ukraine in Budget 2022. From this funding, Canada is donating over 20,000 rounds of 155mm NATO-standard ammunition, which are compatible with the heavy artillery systems that Canada has already delivered. Canada will also provide 10 replacement barrels to enable to sustainment of these systems and to maintain their distance range and accuracy. We are working around the clock to commit military aid with the remainder of these funds.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help. Most recently, the Minister had another productive meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart during the third meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, on the margins of NATO’s Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two tactical aircrafts to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered nearly 2 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations. 
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence. Canada has committed over $262 million in military aid to Ukraine, including M-777 artillery guns, which Canadian troops are training Ukrainian forces on, 155 mm ammunition, small arms, Carl Gustav anti-tank weapons, anti-tank rocket launchers, drone cameras, Roshel smart armoured vehicles, de-mining equipment and satellite imagery. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada is supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion specifically, PSOPs has approved more than $10 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against over 1070 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation.Most recently, Canada sanctioned additional individuals and entities in the defence and financial sectors that were directly or indirectly supporting the Russian regime.Canada prohibited the export to Russia of certain luxury goods and goods that could be used in the manufacturing of weapons and the provision of 28 services to the Russian oil, gas and chemical industries. These include technical, management, accounting, and advertising services vital for the operation of these industries, which account for about 50% of Russia’s federal budget revenues. We also prohibited the import of certain luxury goods from Russia.Canada will complement these measures by banning sanctioned Russians from entering Canada. Legislative changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) have been introduced to ensure foreign nationals subject to sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) are inadmissible to Canada.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.As per Canada’s commitments made as a member of the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO) multilateral taskforce, Canada has proposed legislative amendments that would allow for the seizure and forfeiture of assets belonging to sanctioned individuals and entities. The proceeds generated from the sale of these assets may be used for compensation to victims, the reconstruction of affected states, and the restoration of international peace and security. Canada will be a leader in this sanctions space once these new measures come into force. On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has provided $245 million in humanitarian assistance to UN, Red Cross, and NGO partners to respond to the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. This includes support for the World Food Programme in Ukraine to address food security needs, as well as a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada. Canada also sent 20 cargo flights with more than 377,000 essential relief items and financed the deployment of humanitarian exports to support the UN and Res Cross responses in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that is addressing emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they are better able to meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. In addition, Canada recently allocated $7 million in development assistance to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support those impacted by Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), as well as $2 million for the completion of a dairy plant in western Ukraine, to support food security efforts. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in bilateral loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $500 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Canada has offered up to $1.25 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account. To support the ICC investigations, Canada deployed an additional seven RCMP officers to the ICC and announced $1 million in funding to augment the court’s ability to investigate and prosecute conflict-related sexual violence and crimes against children. Canada is also supporting the deployment of two experts from the UN Women roster to support the UN Human Rights Council Commission of Inquiry (COI) on issues of sexual violence and gender.Canada coordinated a joint statement, issued on May 20 with 43 signatories, expressing support for Ukraine’s application against Russia at the International Court of Justice. Ukraine’s application seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. Canada also welcomed the Court’s provisional measures order ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine, and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission and a subsequent follow-up mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with like-minded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of June 7, almost 40, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. As of June 2, three charter flights from Poland have arrived in Winnipeg, Montreal, and Halifax.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the widespread destruction of cities and civilian infrastructure due to missile and artillery strikes, as well as bombing by Russian airplanes. Only the UN Security Council (UNSC) can make a legally binding decision that all member States must refrain from flight to, from or through the airspace of a specific State or region, pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII. In the current situation, Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, would veto any such resolution.Enforcing a no-fly zone is not a passive act; it would require sending aircraft and ground-based air defence systems from NATO Member States to target and possibly shoot down Russian aircraft violating the airspace in question, in order to prevent that aircraft from carrying out offensive operations on the terrain below.This would be a use of force, making the country that conducted the strike a party to the conflict, and it would also mean that NATO Member States would become targets themselves.NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has stated that imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine would “significantly escalate the war”, risking a “full-fledged war in Europe” between NATO and Russia and lead to “much more human suffering, civilian casualties, destruction”. This is why NATO Allies are providing significant support to Ukraine through sanctions, military aid and in multilateral forums, while not directly engaging in the conflict.We will continue to support Ukraine, including by providing them with the military aid they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Air defenceCanadian ForcesMilitary weaponsRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00390441-00390 (Foreign affairs)Hon.JimCarrWinnipeg South CentreLiberalMBApril 8, 2022May 30, 2022March 28, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 85% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's implementation of visa-free travel for Ukrainians to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately waive all visa requirements and grant visa-free travel to Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada. Canada and Ukraine maintain a close friendship built on shared values and strong-people-to-people ties.Canada has implemented a number of effective immigration solutions to help the people of Ukraine, including the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on March 17, 2022. The CUAET is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) to seek temporary safe haven in Canada. This new measure eases many of the normal visa requirements, eliminates most application and processing fees, and offers accelerated processing.Canada’s visa policy decisions are made on a country-by-country basis. A range of objective criteria are considered before lifting a country’s visa requirement, involving a complex process similar to those of like-minded partners. Canada’s relationship with the country is a key consideration, but so too is the safety and security of Canadians, and the importance of maintaining a well-managed migration system. It takes time to complete a comprehensive visa review, and Ukrainians need help urgently. Ukraine’s visa requirement is not currently under review, but the situation is being monitored very closely to ensure the people of Ukraine continue to receive the support they need.
Passports and visasRefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 13, 2022441-00319441-00319 (Foreign affairs)Hon.Judy A.SgroHumber River—Black CreekLiberalONMarch 31, 2022May 13, 2022March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 80% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's decision to allow Ukrainians to stay in Canada permanently.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately implement a government-assisted refugee program for Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada is committed to helping Ukrainians and has announced a number of new measures to help people affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. For Ukrainians who want to come to Canada temporarily, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel is open as of March 17, 2022, to an unlimited number of Ukrainians and their immediate family members fleeing the war. This is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members to come to Canada and eliminates many of the normal visa requirements. As of March 30, 2022, IRCC has already received more than 90,000 applications under this program.  . On March 30, 2022, the Government of Canada announced that Ukrainians entering Canada as temporary residents will have access to settlement services, which are typically only available to permanent residents. Settlement services include language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports for Ukrainians as they settle into their new communities.  Further, in recognition that many Canadians and permanent residents have family in Ukraine, IRCC is quickly implementing a special family reunification sponsorship pathway.While the measures above fall outside of Canada’s Refugee Resettlement Program, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel allows for large numbers of Ukrainians in need to arrive in Canada more quickly than traditional refugee pathways.   The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) or other designated referral agency refers refugees to the Government of Canada under the Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR) Program. Individuals cannot apply directly to become a Government Assisted Refugee.The Government will continue to monitor the evolving situation in Ukraine, and engage with provinces, territories, and other partners on how we can continue to collectively support these efforts.
RefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00661441-00661 (Social affairs and equality)TakoVan PoptaLangley—AldergroveConservativeBCSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2022441-00288441-00288 (Foreign affairs)MichaelKramRegina—WascanaConservativeSKMarch 28, 2022May 11, 2022March 2, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas: The recent military action by Russia against Ukraine represents a clear violation of both international law and any reasonably acceptable relationship between neighboring countries; andCanada and the international community must work together to resist this illegal invasion.Therefore, we, the undersigned residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to work with the international community to implement a complete economic embargo of Russia.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its likeminded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence, including through the authorization of more than $160 million in military aid, and an additional $500 million announced on April 7 as part of the federal budget announcement. Military aid includes rocket launchers, grenades, anti-tank weapons, small arms, and ammunition. Canada has also recently contributed M777 howitzers, on which Canadian troops will be training Ukrainian forces, a large number of additional Carl Gustaf anti-armour ammunition, and finalized contracts for eight commercial patterned armoured vehicles that will be sent to Ukraine as soon as possible. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada has been supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, PSOPs has developed in excess of $9 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against nearly 1000 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation. Most recently, Canada sanctioned another 33 military entities directly or indirectly supporting the Russian government. These decisions will help undermine and erode the capabilities of the Russian and Belarusian military.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime, until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.Budget 2022 is now proposing measures to not only seize but to allow for the forfeiture and disposal of the assets of sanctioned individuals and entities. These measures will further allow Canada to redistribute the proceeds of these forfeitures for post-war reconstruction, restoration of international peace and security, and compensation to victims These changes will make Canada’s sanctions regime a leader in the G7.On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has announced $245 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. To date, $145 million has been allocated to United Nations organizations, the Red Cross Movement and non-governmental organizations. This also includes a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that addresses emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they can meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $300 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Budget 2022 announced that Canada will offer up to $1 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada led in the referral of the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account.Ukraine filed an application with the International Court of Justice to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. The Court granted provisional measures, including ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine. Canada welcomed the Court’s order and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate and gather evidence.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with likeminded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of April 24, more than 20, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
EmbargoesRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 25, 2022441-00206441-00206 (Social affairs and equality)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBMarch 3, 2022April 25, 2022February 18, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, residents of the province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • Canada's seniors should be a priority for all of us;
  • There are programs that support Canada's seniors like OAS and the GIS along with other public and private financial support programs that ensure seniors have financial means;
  • Governments and senior support groups often encourage and provide support programs like Canada's New Horizons Program which provides grants or Age and Opportunity groups that provide services;
  • Governments of all levels need to work together on issues like long term care and mental health for our seniors; and
  • It is important that leaders in our communities recognize the value of supporting our seniors who continue to contribute to who we are as a society no matter what their personal disposition might be.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon Canada's Members of Parliament to encourage, promote and advocate for the needs of our seniors.
Response by the Minister of SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): DARREN FISHERThe Government of Canada values the contribution that seniors have made and continue to make to our country, our communities, our workplaces and our families. The government is delivering on a number of commitments to provide support to Canadian seniors, to ensure their financial security, social inclusion, well-being and quality of life.While the percentage of seniors living in poverty decreased from 7.0% in 2015 to 5.4% in 2019, we know that some seniors still struggle to make ends meet. This is why our Government has taken further actions to reduce poverty. In 2018, the Government introduced Opportunity for All – Canada’s First Poverty Reduction Strategy. The Strategy offers a bold vision for Canada without poverty. It also sets concrete targets to reduce poverty amongst all Canadians, including seniors: by 20% by 2020; and by 50% by 2030; relative to 2015 levels. The Government’s poverty reduction efforts are already showing positive effects. According to the Canadian Income Survey, the poverty rate decreased by 30% from 2015 to 2019. This means that Canada has exceeded its interim target to reduce poverty by 20 percent by 2020. Between 2015 and 2019, over 1.3 million Canadians were lifted out of poverty, including 45,000 seniors.The Government supports seniors through a strong and stable retirement income system consisting of three pillars that Canadians can count on to be there today and into the future.  The first pillar is the residence-based, monthly Old Age Security (OAS) pension and the income-tested Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income seniors.  Benefits under the OAS program include the OAS pension, which is paid to all persons aged 65 or over who meet the residence requirements, the GIS for low-income seniors, and the Allowances for low-income Canadians aged 60 to 64 who are the spouses or common-law partners of GIS recipients, or who are widows or widowers.The second pillar is the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), a social insurance program that is funded by the contributions of employees, employers and self-employed persons, and by the revenue earned on CPP investments. It covers virtually all employed and self-employed persons in Canada, excluding Quebec, which operates its own comprehensive plan, the Québec Pension Plan. The intent of the CPP is to provide contributors and their families with minimum basic income replacement upon the retirement, disability or death of a wage earner.  As an income replacement program, the amount of CPP benefits are generally based on each earner’s contributions to the CPP over their lifetime.  While primarily a retirement plan, the CPP also provides supplementary disability and survivor benefits, which reflect the social insurance nature of the Plan and are not a direct return on contributions.The OAS and CPP work together to provide a stable base upon which individuals can add income from private third pillar measures, such as employer-sponsored pension plans, registered retirement savings plans, tax-free savings accounts and other personal savings and investments, to address their particular financial circumstances.To ensure that they retain their value over time, OAS benefits are reviewed four times per year (in January, April, July and October) and CPP benefits are reviewed annually (in January) in accordance with changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI measures the price of a typical “basket” of goods and services, such as food, shelter, gas and clothing, commonly purchased by Canadian households. The quarterly indexation provides benefit increases to recipients when prices go up. In addition, the Old Age Security Act and the Canada Pension Plan each contain a guarantee ensuring that benefits can never go down, even in the event of a decline in the CPI.The Government of Canada remains committed to improving the income security of seniors and continues to seek ways to strengthen the OAS program, as demonstrated by a broad range of measures taken since 2015:
  • Budget 2016 restored the age of eligibility for the OAS pension and the GIS to 65, putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of future Canadian seniors.
  • In July 2016, the GIS was increased by up to $947 per year for the lowest-income single seniors, benefiting close to 900,000 vulnerable seniors across Canada.
  • In December 2017, the Government launched automatic enrolment to the GIS. Seniors who are automatically enrolled for the OAS pension are now automatically enrolled for the GIS without ever having to complete an application.
  • In Budget 2019, the Government enhanced the GIS earnings exemption so that low-income seniors who work are able to keep more of what they earn. As of July 2020, the enhanced exemption applies to both employment and self-employment income, and provides a full exemption on up to $5,000 of annual earnings, as well as a 50% exemption on the next $10,000 of earnings. This means that low-income seniors who work can keep more of their benefits.
The Government has also introduced several measures to protect seniors’ financial security during the COVID-19 pandemic. These included, in 2020, a one-time tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for the OAS pension, with an additional tax-free payment of $200 for seniors eligible for the GIS. This measure provided a total of $500 to low-income seniors who received both the OAS pension and the GIS. Allowance recipients also received $500.More recently, in Budget 2021, the Government committed to moving forward with investments that give Canadian seniors a better quality of life, including stronger financial security. In July 2022, the Government will increase the OAS pension by 10 percent for seniors aged 75 or over. In order to help address the immediate needs of this group of seniors, the Government provided a one-time payment of $500 in August 2021 to OAS pensioners who will be aged 75 or over as of June 30, 2022.In addition, the Government has committed to increasing the GIS by $500 for single seniors and $750 for couples, starting at age 65.Budget 2021 committed $90 million from 2021-22 to 2023-24 to support seniors in their homes through the Age Well at Home initiative. The timeframe for this initiative was recently extended to the end of fiscal year 2024-25.Age Well at Home will provide funding to local seniors-serving organizations to provide practical supports, such as meals, light housekeeping, yard work and transportation, to help low-income and otherwise vulnerable seniors stay at home longer. This initiative will also support regional and national projects that help expand services that have already demonstrated results in helping seniors stay in their homes. For example, knowledge hubs can help seniors access the local services available to them or provide information, resources and training to seniors-serving organizations delivering practical supports to seniors.The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) supports the Government of Canada’s overarching social goals to enhance the quality of life, and promote the full participation of individuals, including seniors, in all aspects of Canadian society.  The Program helps to ensure that seniors can benefit from and contribute to the quality of life in their communities. The NHSP promotes volunteerism among seniors and other generations; engages seniors in the community through mentoring of others; expands awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse; supports social participation and inclusion of seniors; and provides capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniorsThe NHSP reinforces that seniors are valuable assets to communities. By empowering seniors and encouraging them to share their knowledge, skills and experience with others in the community, the NHSP enhances seniors’ social well-being and community vitality. Seniors today contribute to their community, organizations and broader society by volunteering, participating in, and leading community activities. Since 2004, the NHSP has funded more than 30,500 projects with a total investment of more than $660 million.Addressing the issues faced by seniors is not only about the action of governments. Meaningful contributions are needed from a broad coalition of stakeholders. The Government receives valuable advice from a number of partners and stakeholders to inform its work.  For example, the National Seniors Council, established in 2007, provides advice to the federal government, through the Minister of Seniors and Minister of Health, on matters related to the well-being, quality of life and health of seniors. Additionally, through the FPT Seniors Forum, federal, provincial and territorial ministers and officials discuss issues of importance to seniors, share information on seniors’ wellbeing, and undertake initiatives to advance issues of common concern.The Government looks forward to continuing to work with the National Seniors Council, provinces, territories and other key stakeholders to support Canada’s seniors of today and tomorrow. 
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadians, including seniors, through the development of policies, programs and initiatives that promote the health, wellbeing, and quality of life of older adults, and through addressing issues in long-term care.The Government of Canada endorses various international initiatives related to aging and health, including the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) Age-Friendly Model. An age-friendly community is one that is designed to help seniors live safely, enjoy good health and stay involved. In an age-friendly community, structures and services are adapted to the needs of older people. These efforts continue to grow around the world and in Canada, where we now have over 1,400 communities across the country working to become more age-friendly. The Prime Minister has tasked the Minister of Health, in the context of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing, with working to promote seniors’ physical and mental health to enable them to live longer at home. This includes supporting the Minister of Seniors in their work to establish an expert panel to provide recommendations for establishing an Aging at Home Benefit.Canadians ultimately want to age at home or in their community, close to family and loved ones. That is why the Federal Government is providing $6 billion over ten years – starting in 2017 – for provinces and territories to improve access to home and community care services, including palliative care. This investment is helping more Canadians receive the care and services they need so that they may remain at home longer.The COVID-19 pandemic has also tragically exposed long-standing issues affecting long-term care facilities across the country. While the provision of long-term care falls under the jurisdiction of the provinces and territories, the Federal Government is working collaboratively with provinces and territories to improve the quality and availability of long-term care, and to support training and better wages for personal support workers. The Minister of Health’s most recent mandate letter reiterates the Government’s commitment to ensuring seniors get the care they deserve. This commitment builds on past efforts to support long-term care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.To address significant challenges revealed during COVID-19, in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Federal Government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care Fund. This fund is transferring $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care. Provinces and territories are able to use this money to improve infection prevention and control in facilities, including to assess infection prevention and control readiness, improve infrastructure such as ventilation, and address workforce gaps, including hiring more staff or raising wages.In addition, Budget 2021 announced a further $3 billion investment, starting in 2022-23, to support provinces and territories in their efforts to ensure standards for long-term care are applied and permanent changes are made. The Federal Government will work collaboratively with provinces and territories to flow this funding as part of our collective efforts to make sure that seniors and others in care settings live in safe and dignified conditions. This new funding will be available to help provinces and territories strengthen compliance and enforcement activities and support workforce stability, including through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions (e.g. staff to patient ratios, hours of work). The Federal Government welcomes the news that the Health Standards Organization and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group) have conducted extensive consultation and have released their draft LTC standards for public review. This is an important step to improving care for seniors that will set the bar higher for safe and respectful care in these facilities.The Federal Government has also responded to COVID-19 in long-term care facilities in a number of other ways:
  • The Safe Restart Agreement provided provincial and territorial governments with over $19 billion to help them restart the economy, while making Canada more resilient to future surges in cases of COVID-19. This included $740 million in funding to support our most vulnerable populations through infection prevention and control measures to protect those in long-term care and those receiving home care and palliative care.
  • Provided $3 billion in emergency federal funding to provinces and territories to support increased wages of low-income essential workers, including personal support workers in long-term care facilities.
  • Supported provinces and territories in fighting outbreaks in long-term care facilities by providing personal protective equipment, contact tracing, rapid testing and vaccines. The Government also deployed the Canadian Armed Forces and funded direct assistance through the Canadian Red Cross.
  • Provided funding to Healthcare Excellence Canada for its LTC+ initiative, which spreads promising practices in preventing and mitigating the impact of COVID-19 in long-term care and retirement homes. This initiative has expanded to support more than 1,500 facilities across Canada.
  • Committed $38.5 million over two years to support training up to 4,000 personal support worker interns through an accelerated 6-week online training program combined with a 4-month work placement, to address acute labour shortages in long-term care and home care.
Seniors deserve to be safe, respected and live in dignity. The Federal Government continues to work in collaboration with provinces and territories to ensure seniors get the care they deserve, foster aging at home, and increase the resilience of long-term care facilities in order to prevent and mitigate challenges, including COVID-19.Our Government also has an important role to play in supporting evidence-based best practices to promote healthy aging. In 2018, the Government of Canada invested $75 million for the Healthy Seniors Pilot Project in New Brunswick. This project is examining how governments can better support seniors in their homes, communities and care facilities. The projects supported by this initiative are addressing a wide range of issues related to the health of older people.Dementia is also having a significant and growing impact in Canada, with more than 450,000 Canadians aged 65 and older with a diagnosis (2017-18). This number is expected to rise as Canada’s aging population increases. In 2019, Canada released its first national dementia strategy, A Dementia Strategy for Canada: Together We Aspire. The Government of Canada is supporting the strategy’s implementation through investments in research, awareness raising, guidance, surveillance and community-based projects. Furthermore, Budget 2022 proposes to provide $30 million over three years, starting in 2022-23, to the Public Health Agency of Canada, for the Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation to help accelerate innovations in brain health and aging. Budget 2022 also proposes to provide $20 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to ramp up efforts to learn more about dementia and brain health, to improve treatment and outcomes for persons living with dementia, and to evaluate and address mental health consequences for caregivers and different models of care.The commitment to support the mental health of Canadians, including seniors, is reflected in a number of ongoing investments. Through bilateral agreements with provinces and territories, the Government is investing $5 billion over ten years (2017-2027) to support increased access to mental health and substance use services. The Government is also continuing to work with partners and stakeholders to develop National Mental Health Standards. Once developed and voluntarily implemented, standards will help to support an evidence-based framework for service delivery that the public, service providers, and policy makers can rely on.The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected older adults who continue to experience a range of negative impacts as a result of the pandemic and has necessitated an increased need for mental health supports. To support older Canadians, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has released guidance, information and awareness resources on topics important to seniors’ health. In addition, through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million over three years, starting in 2021-22, to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including older adults.Seniors are also able to access the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) portal, launched by the Government in response to the increased need for mental health services resulting from the pandemic. Through the WTC portal, individuals across Canada can access free, 24/7, credible information and supports in both official languages to help address mental health and substance use issues. The portal offers services across the continuum of care, from self-guided resources to live coaching, peer support and counselling (including by telephone), allowing users to seamlessly “step” up or down to a different intensity of support appropriate for their needs. To help clients (including seniors) navigate the portal, a dedicated phone line is available for speaking with Program Navigators who can assist with finding the appropriate resources. Budget 2022 aims to provide $140M over two years, starting in 2022-23, in support of the WTC portal, so that it can continue to provide Canadians with tools and services to support their mental health and well-being.The Government recognizes that, as Canada heads into post-pandemic recovery, additional mental health supports will be needed. As a result, the first Minister of Mental Health and Addictions will seek to make mental health a full and equal part of the healthcare system, by delivering on a number of commitments, including engaging with provinces and territories to inform the development of a new Canada Mental Health Transfer.The Government of Canada will continue to engage with key partners and stakeholders to build evidence, raise awareness, and develop resources on key seniors’ health issues. Budget 2022 also proposes the creation of an expert panel that will report to the Minister of Seniors and the Minister of Health to study the idea of an Aging At Home Benefit. All of these commitments and investments in mental health, healthy aging, dementia, and long-term care ensure a better future for Canadians.
Senior citizensSocial benefits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00266441-00266 (Social affairs and equality)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBMarch 24, 2022May 9, 2022February 18, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, residents of the province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • Canada's seniors should be a priority for all of us;
  • There are programs that support Canada's seniors like OAS and the GIS along with other public and private financial support programs that ensure seniors have financial means;
  • Governments and senior support groups often encourage and provide support programs like Canada's New Horizons Program which provides grants or Age and Opportunity groups that provide services;
  • Governments of all levels need to work together on issues like long term care and mental health for our seniors; and
  • It is important that leaders in our communities recognize the value of supporting our seniors who continue to contribute to who we are as a society no matter what their personal disposition might be.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon Canada's Members of Parliament to encourage, promote and advocate for the needs of our seniors.
Response by the Minister of SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): DARREN FISHERThe Government of Canada values the contribution that seniors have made and continue to make to our country, our communities, our workplaces and our families. The government is delivering on a number of commitments to provide support to Canadian seniors, to ensure their financial security, social inclusion, well-being and quality of life.While the percentage of seniors living in poverty decreased from 7.0% in 2015 to 5.4% in 2019, we know that some seniors still struggle to make ends meet. This is why our Government has taken further actions to reduce poverty. In 2018, the Government introduced Opportunity for All – Canada’s First Poverty Reduction Strategy. The Strategy offers a bold vision for Canada without poverty. It also sets concrete targets to reduce poverty amongst all Canadians, including seniors: by 20% by 2020; and by 50% by 2030; relative to 2015 levels. The Government’s poverty reduction efforts are already showing positive effects. According to the Canadian Income Survey, the poverty rate decreased by 30% from 2015 to 2019. This means that Canada has exceeded its interim target to reduce poverty by 20 percent by 2020. Between 2015 and 2019, over 1.3 million Canadians were lifted out of poverty, including 45,000 seniors.The Government supports seniors through a strong and stable retirement income system consisting of three pillars that Canadians can count on to be there today and into the future.  The first pillar is the residence-based, monthly Old Age Security (OAS) pension and the income-tested Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income seniors.  Benefits under the OAS program include the OAS pension, which is paid to all persons aged 65 or over who meet the residence requirements, the GIS for low-income seniors, and the Allowances for low-income Canadians aged 60 to 64 who are the spouses or common-law partners of GIS recipients, or who are widows or widowers.The second pillar is the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), a social insurance program that is funded by the contributions of employees, employers and self-employed persons, and by the revenue earned on CPP investments. It covers virtually all employed and self-employed persons in Canada, excluding Quebec, which operates its own comprehensive plan, the Québec Pension Plan. The intent of the CPP is to provide contributors and their families with minimum basic income replacement upon the retirement, disability or death of a wage earner.  As an income replacement program, the amount of CPP benefits are generally based on each earner’s contributions to the CPP over their lifetime.  While primarily a retirement plan, the CPP also provides supplementary disability and survivor benefits, which reflect the social insurance nature of the Plan and are not a direct return on contributions.The OAS and CPP work together to provide a stable base upon which individuals can add income from private third pillar measures, such as employer-sponsored pension plans, registered retirement savings plans, tax-free savings accounts and other personal savings and investments, to address their particular financial circumstances.To ensure that they retain their value over time, OAS benefits are reviewed four times per year (in January, April, July and October) and CPP benefits are reviewed annually (in January) in accordance with changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI measures the price of a typical “basket” of goods and services, such as food, shelter, gas and clothing, commonly purchased by Canadian households. The quarterly indexation provides benefit increases to recipients when prices go up. In addition, the Old Age Security Act and the Canada Pension Plan each contain a guarantee ensuring that benefits can never go down, even in the event of a decline in the CPI.The Government of Canada remains committed to improving the income security of seniors and continues to seek ways to strengthen the OAS program, as demonstrated by a broad range of measures taken since 2015:
  • Budget 2016 restored the age of eligibility for the OAS pension and the GIS to 65, putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of future Canadian seniors.
  • In July 2016, the GIS was increased by up to $947 per year for the lowest-income single seniors, benefiting close to 900,000 vulnerable seniors across Canada.
  • In December 2017, the Government launched automatic enrolment to the GIS. Seniors who are automatically enrolled for the OAS pension are now automatically enrolled for the GIS without ever having to complete an application.
  • In Budget 2019, the Government enhanced the GIS earnings exemption so that low-income seniors who work are able to keep more of what they earn. As of July 2020, the enhanced exemption applies to both employment and self-employment income, and provides a full exemption on up to $5,000 of annual earnings, as well as a 50% exemption on the next $10,000 of earnings. This means that low-income seniors who work can keep more of their benefits.
The Government has also introduced several measures to protect seniors’ financial security during the COVID-19 pandemic. These included, in 2020, a one-time tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for the OAS pension, with an additional tax-free payment of $200 for seniors eligible for the GIS. This measure provided a total of $500 to low-income seniors who received both the OAS pension and the GIS. Allowance recipients also received $500.More recently, in Budget 2021, the Government committed to moving forward with investments that give Canadian seniors a better quality of life, including stronger financial security. In July 2022, the Government will increase the OAS pension by 10 percent for seniors aged 75 or over. In order to help address the immediate needs of this group of seniors, the Government provided a one-time payment of $500 in August 2021 to OAS pensioners who will be aged 75 or over as of June 30, 2022.In addition, the Government has committed to increasing the GIS by $500 for single seniors and $750 for couples, starting at age 65.Budget 2021 committed $90 million from 2021-22 to 2023-24 to support seniors in their homes through the Age Well at Home initiative. The timeframe for this initiative was recently extended to the end of fiscal year 2024-25.Age Well at Home will provide funding to local seniors-serving organizations to provide practical supports, such as meals, light housekeeping, yard work and transportation, to help low-income and otherwise vulnerable seniors stay at home longer. This initiative will also support regional and national projects that help expand services that have already demonstrated results in helping seniors stay in their homes. For example, knowledge hubs can help seniors access the local services available to them or provide information, resources and training to seniors-serving organizations delivering practical supports to seniors.The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) supports the Government of Canada’s overarching social goals to enhance the quality of life, and promote the full participation of individuals, including seniors, in all aspects of Canadian society.  The Program helps to ensure that seniors can benefit from and contribute to the quality of life in their communities. The NHSP promotes volunteerism among seniors and other generations; engages seniors in the community through mentoring of others; expands awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse; supports social participation and inclusion of seniors; and provides capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors.The NHSP reinforces that seniors are valuable assets to communities. By empowering seniors and encouraging them to share their knowledge, skills and experience with others in the community, the NHSP enhances seniors’ social well-being and community vitality. Seniors today contribute to their community, organizations and broader society by volunteering, participating in, and leading community activities. Since 2004, the NHSP has funded more than 30,500 projects with a total investment of more than $660 million.Addressing the issues faced by seniors is not only about the action of governments. Meaningful contributions are needed from a broad coalition of stakeholders. The Government receives valuable advice from a number of partners and stakeholders to inform its work.  For example, the National Seniors Council, established in 2007, provides advice to the federal government, through the Minister of Seniors and Minister of Health, on matters related to the well-being, quality of life and health of seniors. Additionally, through the FPT Seniors Forum, federal, provincial and territorial ministers and officials discuss issues of importance to seniors, share information on seniors’ wellbeing, and undertake initiatives to advance issues of common concern.The Government looks forward to continuing to work with the National Seniors Council, provinces, territories and other key stakeholders to support Canada’s seniors of today and tomorrow. 
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadians, including seniors, through the development of policies, programs and initiatives that promote the health, wellbeing, and quality of life of older adults, and through addressing issues in long-term care.The Government of Canada endorses various international initiatives related to aging and health, including the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) Age-Friendly Model. An age-friendly community is one that is designed to help seniors live safely, enjoy good health and stay involved. In an age-friendly community, structures and services are adapted to the needs of older people. These efforts continue to grow around the world and in Canada, where we now have over 1,400 communities across the country working to become more age-friendly. The Prime Minister has tasked the Minister of Health, in the context of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing, with working to promote seniors’ physical and mental health to enable them to live longer at home. This includes supporting the Minister of Seniors in their work to establish an expert panel to provide recommendations for establishing an Aging at Home Benefit.Canadians ultimately want to age at home or in their community, close to family and loved ones. That is why the Federal Government is providing $6 billion over ten years – starting in 2017 – for provinces and territories to improve access to home and community care services, including palliative care. This investment is helping more Canadians receive the care and services they need so that they may remain at home longer.The COVID-19 pandemic has also tragically exposed long-standing issues affecting long-term care facilities across the country. While the provision of long-term care falls under the jurisdiction of the provinces and territories, the Federal Government is working collaboratively with provinces and territories to improve the quality and availability of long-term care, and to support training and better wages for personal support workers. The Minister of Health’s most recent mandate letter reiterates the Government’s commitment to ensuring seniors get the care they deserve. This commitment builds on past efforts to support long-term care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.To address significant challenges revealed during COVID-19, in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Federal Government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care Fund. This fund is transferring $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care. Provinces and territories are able to use this money to improve infection prevention and control in facilities, including to assess infection prevention and control readiness, improve infrastructure such as ventilation, and address workforce gaps, including hiring more staff or raising wages.In addition, Budget 2021 announced a further $3 billion investment, starting in 2022-23, to support provinces and territories in their efforts to ensure standards for long-term care are applied and permanent changes are made. The Federal Government will work collaboratively with provinces and territories to flow this funding as part of our collective efforts to make sure that seniors and others in care settings live in safe and dignified conditions. This new funding will be available to help provinces and territories strengthen compliance and enforcement activities and support workforce stability, including through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions (e.g. staff to patient ratios, hours of work). The Federal Government welcomes the news that the Health Standards Organization and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group) have conducted extensive consultation and have released their draft LTC standards for public review. This is an important step to improving care for seniors that will set the bar higher for safe and respectful care in these facilities.The Federal Government has also responded to COVID-19 in long-term care facilities in a number of other ways:
  • The Safe Restart Agreement provided provincial and territorial governments with over $19 billion to help them restart the economy, while making Canada more resilient to future surges in cases of COVID-19. This included $740 million in funding to support our most vulnerable populations through infection prevention and control measures to protect those in long-term care and those receiving home care and palliative care.
  • Provided $3 billion in emergency federal funding to provinces and territories to support increased wages of low-income essential workers, including personal support workers in long-term care facilities.
  • Supported provinces and territories in fighting outbreaks in long-term care facilities by providing personal protective equipment, contact tracing, rapid testing and vaccines. The Government also deployed the Canadian Armed Forces and funded direct assistance through the Canadian Red Cross.
  • Provided funding to Healthcare Excellence Canada for its LTC+ initiative, which spreads promising practices in preventing and mitigating the impact of COVID-19 in long-term care and retirement homes. This initiative has expanded to support more than 1,500 facilities across Canada.
  • Committed $38.5 million over two years to support training up to 4,000 personal support worker interns through an accelerated 6-week online training program combined with a 4-month work placement, to address acute labour shortages in long-term care and home care.
Seniors deserve to be safe, respected and live in dignity. The Federal Government continues to work in collaboration with provinces and territories to ensure seniors get the care they deserve, foster aging at home, and increase the resilience of long-term care facilities in order to prevent and mitigate challenges, including COVID-19.Our Government also has an important role to play in supporting evidence-based best practices to promote healthy aging. In 2018, the Government of Canada invested $75 million for the Healthy Seniors Pilot Project in New Brunswick. This project is examining how governments can better support seniors in their homes, communities and care facilities. The projects supported by this initiative are addressing a wide range of issues related to the health of older people.Dementia is also having a significant and growing impact in Canada, with more than 450,000 Canadians aged 65 and older with a diagnosis (2017-18). This number is expected to rise as Canada’s aging population increases. In 2019, Canada released its first national dementia strategy, A Dementia Strategy for Canada: Together We Aspire. The Government of Canada is supporting the strategy’s implementation through investments in research, awareness raising, guidance, surveillance and community-based projects. Furthermore, Budget 2022 proposes to provide $30 million over three years, starting in 2022-23, to the Public Health Agency of Canada, for the Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation to help accelerate innovations in brain health and aging. Budget 2022 also proposes to provide $20 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to ramp up efforts to learn more about dementia and brain health, to improve treatment and outcomes for persons living with dementia, and to evaluate and address mental health consequences for caregivers and different models of care.The commitment to support the mental health of Canadians, including seniors, is reflected in a number of ongoing investments. Through bilateral agreements with provinces and territories, the Government is investing $5 billion over ten years (2017-2027) to support increased access to mental health and substance use services. The Government is also continuing to work with partners and stakeholders to develop National Mental Health Standards. Once developed and voluntarily implemented, standards will help to support an evidence-based framework for service delivery that the public, service providers, and policy makers can rely on.The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected older adults who continue to experience a range of negative impacts as a result of the pandemic and has necessitated an increased need for mental health supports. To support older Canadians, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has released guidance, information and awareness resources on topics important to seniors’ health. In addition, through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million over three years, starting in 2021-22, to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including older adults.Seniors are also able to access the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) portal, launched by the Government in response to the increased need for mental health services resulting from the pandemic. Through the WTC portal, individuals across Canada can access free, 24/7, credible information and supports in both official languages to help address mental health and substance use issues. The portal offers services across the continuum of care, from self-guided resources to live coaching, peer support and counselling (including by telephone), allowing users to seamlessly “step” up or down to a different intensity of support appropriate for their needs. To help clients (including seniors) navigate the portal, a dedicated phone line is available for speaking with Program Navigators who can assist with finding the appropriate resources. Budget 2022 aims to provide $140M over two years, starting in 2022-23, in support of the WTC portal, so that it can continue to provide Canadians with tools and services to support their mental health and well-being.The Government recognizes that, as Canada heads into post-pandemic recovery, additional mental health supports will be needed. As a result, the first Minister of Mental Health and Addictions will seek to make mental health a full and equal part of the healthcare system, by delivering on a number of commitments, including engaging with provinces and territories to inform the development of a new Canada Mental Health Transfer.The Government of Canada will continue to engage with key partners and stakeholders to build evidence, raise awareness, and develop resources on key seniors’ health issues. Budget 2022 also proposes the creation of an expert panel that will report to the Minister of Seniors and the Minister of Health to study the idea of an Aging At Home Benefit. All of these commitments and investments in mental health, healthy aging, dementia, and long-term care ensure a better future for Canadians.
Senior citizensSocial benefits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 31, 2022441-00191441-00191 (Health)TracyGrayKelowna—Lake CountryConservativeBCFebruary 15, 2022March 31, 2022February 11, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:The opioid crisis is one of the most deadly public health emergencies of our lifetime, with a death taking place on average about every two hours and a death toll of almost 15,400 in the past four years alone (January 2016 to December 2019); andThe overdose crisis rages.We, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency and:
  • Take steps to end overdose deaths and overdose injuries;
  • Immediately collaborate with provinces and territories to develop a comprehensive, pan-Canadian overdose action plan;
  • Ensure that any plan considers reforms that other countries have used, such as legal regulation of drugs to ensure safe supply, decriminalization for personal use, and changes to flawed drug policy and policing; and
  • Ensure this emergency is taken seriously with adequately funded programming and supports.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada recognizes that the overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. Tragically, most recent national data indicates that 26,690 apparent opioid toxicity deaths occurred between January 2016 and September 2021. Fentanyl and its analogues continue to be major drivers of the crisis with as many as 86% of accidental apparent opioid toxicity deaths in the first nine months of 2021 (January to September) involving fentanyl.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the complexity of this crisis has only become more complex due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services, such as life-saving harm reduction and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience, to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need during the pandemic.With respect to the request to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency, the federal Emergencies Act is a tool of last resort to ensure safety and security in the event of a national emergency that cannot be addressed by other levels of government or other laws. Such a declaration is not required at the federal level to access important responses to the overdose crisis. In addition, the Government believes that the crisis requires a longer-term, sustained, and co-ordinated effort, which the Emergencies Act is not designed to provide.Canada’s approach to substance use issues aims to be comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach, and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. It includes four key pillars – prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and enforcement. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the Government of Canada has taken urgent action to address the overdose crisis through significant investments of over $700 million. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • over $182 million to the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) through the 2020 Fall Economic Statement and Budget 2021 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide frontline services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services;
  • $200 million, with $40 million per year ongoing, to enhance the delivery of culturally appropriate addictions treatment and prevention services in First Nations communities;
  • more than $20 million for Naloxone distribution, education and training; and,
  • $13 million over five years to launch a new national, multi-year public education campaign to help reshape Canadians’ attitudes and perceptions about people who use drugs.
In addition to these investments, in order to prevent and reduce substance-related harms, the Government of Canada has undertaken a broad range of policy, legislative and regulatory actions, such as:
  • approving exemptions to establish supervised consumption sites (since January 1, 2016, the number of supervised consumption sites operating in Canada has increased from 1 to 38), and providing provincial and territorial class exemptions to facilitate the establishment of Urgent Public Health Need Sites (commonly known as overdose prevention sites);
  • reducing barriers to providing people who use drugs with safer, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives to the toxic illegal drug supply and supporting 17 safer supply projects across 29 sites in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick, and one national community of practice, for a total investment of over $63 million;
  • providing guidance and leadership on the prescribing, dispensing, and delivery of opioids and other narcotics during the pandemic;
  • creating new regulatory pathways under the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations used to authorize medication used to treat addiction not otherwise available (e.g., approving diacetylmorphine hydrochloride as a supervised injectable opioid agonist therapy for adult patients with severe opioid disorder and amending federal regulations to allow healthcare practitioners to provide diacetylmorphine-assisted treatment outside of a hospital setting, if permitted by their province or territory);
  • supporting the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which encourages people to seek emergency help at the scene of an overdose by providing some legal protection against simple drug possession charges; and,
  • introducing Bill C-5, which proposes amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act which, among other measures, would repeal mandatory minimum penalties for drug related-offences, and would require prosecutors to consider alternative measures to laying charges or prosecuting individuals for simple possession of drugs, including diversion to treatment programs.
The Mandate Letter of the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health calls on the Minister to, “Advance a comprehensive strategy to address problematic substance use in Canada, supporting efforts to improve public education to reduce stigma, and supporting provinces and territories and working with Indigenous communities to provide access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction, as well as to create standards for substance use treatment programs.” The Government of Canada is continuing to work with provincial, territorial, Indigenous and municipal officials on options to address their regional needs. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Problematic Substance Use & Harms to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. We are also collaborating with provinces and territories to better understand the evolving crisis, and undertaking timely monitoring and reporting of opioid-related deaths and harms in Canada. Public health officers from the Public Health Agency of Canada have been deployed to support public health surveillance systems in provinces and territories.In addition, engagement with civil society organizations, direct care service providers, academics, people with lived and living experience, and other key stakeholders continues to inform federal actions to reduce opioid-related overdoses and deaths and improve the health and wellbeing of Canadians who use drugs. For example, we continue to engage with stakeholders to inform them about safer supply and encourage them to look and work within their sphere of influence to remove barriers to this practice. Safer supply services provide a pharmaceutical alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply as a way to help prevent overdoses, improve the health of people who use drugs, and help connect people to trusted and supportive relationships in health and social services. Health Canada is supporting a number of safer supply projects through the Substance Use and Additions Program (SUAP). We have also taken action to increase access to safer supply services by:
  • helping to build the evidence base for safer supply by supporting the evaluation of pilot projects and seeking expert advice, including from health professionals and people who use drugs; 
  • making it easier to access needed medications, including issuing exemptions from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and,
  • sharing resources and guidance on treating substance use disorder for the use of healthcare practitioners.
The Government of Canada is also taking action to ensure that our enforcement response is focused on organized drug crime and the cross-border movement of illegal substances and the precursor chemicals that are used to make many of them. As Canada’s national police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detects, investigates, and disrupts the most serious and complex criminal threats to the safety and security of Canadians and Canadian interests, including transnational and serious organized crime (TSOC) and the illegal drug market. At our borders, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is working to reduce the flow of illegal opioids and related substances, precursor chemicals, and other controlled substances. Efforts to disrupt the involvement of organized crime groups in the production, trafficking, and sale of what are now increasingly toxic substances remain critical, including in support of public health measures to prevent, treat, and reduce the harms associated with the use of those substances. Recent and/or ongoing federal activities include:
  • acquisition of new infrastructure and tools required to assist in the safe examination and sampling of suspected highly toxic substances in addition to increasing intelligence, targeting, and training support;
  • investigating TSOC networks that traffic multiple commodities, within Canada and internationally, as well as online vendors and manufacturers;
  • providing an integrated policing response to drug trafficking and organized crime networks by working closely with local law enforcement agencies, as well as private industry partners, including chemical producers, retailers and distributors, to limit the chemicals used for legitimate purposes from being diverted for the illegal production of controlled substances; and,
  • maintaining strong relations with international partners, including the United States of America, to support joint operations and investigations involving cross-border drug activity, as well as to facilitate productive policy dialogue and information exchange.
Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of illegal drugs for personal use can perpetuate stigma, increase risks of overdose and other harms, and increase barriers to care. Canada recognizes that drug use stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help ensure that stigma is not present in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides frontline law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The Federal Government is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and towards supportive and trusted relationships in health and social services. In addition to the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act in May 2017, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada issued guidance to prosecutors directing that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for personal possession offences, except when there are serious aggravating circumstances.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 10, 2022441-00282441-00282 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 10, 2022February 15, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 16, 2022441-00330441-00330 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABApril 1, 2022May 16, 2022February 15, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00880441-00880 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 28, 2022January 30, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2022441-00291441-00291 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 11, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the rule of law and respect for human rights and democracy;
  • The Putin regime invaded and occupied Crimea and the Donbas region of Eastern Ukraine in 2014, leading to the death of more than 14,000 Ukrainians;
  • The Government of Canada, NATO allies, and the European Union unanimously condemned the 2014 invasion of Ukraine;
  • Russian military forces have now conducted a subsequent large-scale invasion of Ukraine, dropping missiles on Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odessa, Mariupol and other cities in Ukraine, and killing many Ukrainian civilians and soldiers; and
  • The subsequent Russian invasion of Ukraine is a grave violation of international law and must be universally condemned.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Stand with the people of Ukraine in the threat faced towards Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity; 2. Call on the international community to take decisive action against the Putin regime, and ban Russia from international organizations, including the UNSC, OSCE, etc.; 3. Impose full and swift sanctions against the Putin regime, including the removal of Russia from the SWIFT international payments system; 4. Boycott Russian oil and gas imports in Canada and Europe, and secure energy agreements with Western partners; 5. Increase the supply of military equipment and lethal defensive weapons to protect the territory and human rights of the people of Ukraine; 6. Provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine; and 7. Provide vital assistance to refugees impacted by the conflict in Ukraine and allow Canadians with family members in Ukraine to urgently bring family members to Canada for as long as the conflict persists.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Canada is committed in our support for those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.On March 17, 2022, IRCC launched the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) to help Ukrainians and their family members come to Canada as quickly as possible and to provide them with the ability to work and study while in Canada.  The CUAET also gives those who are already in Canada the option to extend their visitor status, work permit or study permit so that they can continue to live and work or study in Canada temporarily.The CUAET is one of the many special measures the Government of Canada has introduced to support the people of Ukraine. It offers Ukrainians and their family members extended temporary status and allows them to work, study and stay in Canada until it is safe for them to return home.Ukrainians and their family members coming to Canada from overseas:
  • can apply for a fee exempt visitor visa and may be allowed to stay in Canada for 3 years, as opposed to the standard 6-month authorized stay for regular visitors;
  • have the option to apply for an open work permit with their visa application, enabling them to work as quickly as possible;
  • will have their electronic visa application processed within 14 days of receipt of a complete application, for standard, non-complex cases;
  • are exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements, but must meet all other public health requirements for travel, such as quarantine and testing. With limited exceptions, all travellers to Canada, including anyone arriving under the CUAET, must also use ArriveCAN;
  • are exempt from completing an immigration medical exam (IME) overseas, if applicable, but may be required to complete and pay for a medical diagnostic test within 90 days of arrival in Canada to screen for reportable communicable diseases (chest x-ray or suitable alternative and blood test).
Ukrainians and their family members who acquire or already have temporary status in Canada:
  • may apply to extend their temporary resident status for up to 3 years;
  • can leave and return to Canada at any time while their visa is valid;
  • may renew their work or study permit
  • may apply for a new work or study permit;
  • are eligible to attend elementary and secondary school;
  • may be required to complete and pay for an immigration medical exam (IME) if they haven’t completed one on initial entry to Canada.
All Ukrainians and their family members:
  • will have most of their application fees waived, including the visa application fee, biometric collection fee, work and study permit application fees, and visitor extension, and work and study permit renewal fees;
  • will have all their IRCC applications prioritized for processing (14 days for non complex and complete applications);
  • may apply for permanent residence under a variety of different immigration programs and streams if they are eligible to do so;
  • have access to IRCC’s dedicated service channel.      
IRCC has increased operational readiness in Europe in anticipation of an increased volume of requests. This includes relocating staff and moving additional supplies and equipment, such as mobile biometric collection kits. We are also adjusting operations in offices across our global network to ensure service continuity for Ukraine. Online options are available for most applications.There are currently no refugee resettlement commitments related to the situation in Ukraine. The CUAET is for Ukrainians and their family members who want to come to Canada temporarily while the situation in Ukraine unfolds. This new pathway allows for Ukrainians and their family members to seek temporary refuge in Canada, and return home when it is safe to do so or apply for permanent residency.  IRCC has been working closely with other government departments, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, and others across the Ukrainian-Canadian community to ensure that all measures meet the needs of Ukrainians and their communities. IRCC will continue to engage with provinces and territories, and other partners as to how they can contribute and support the effort.
  • The Department is working quickly to ensure that Ukrainian Temporary Residents and their dependents in Canada are able to access federally-funded settlement services such as language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports as they settle into their new communities. Access to these supports will remain in place until March 31, 2023.
We have also created a Ukraine Cross-Sectoral Collaboration Governance Table, which will bring together settlement sector leadership, provincial and territorial representatives, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, the Canadian Red Cross, federal partners and other stakeholders. This table will facilitate communication and collaboration on the Ukraine response and will help to triage logistics for donations. The Budget 2022 provides additional funding to bolster Canada’s response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and details some measures already in place, including the funding of $111 million over 5 years, with $6 million in future years, to implement new immigration measures for Ukrainians. This funding will help to set up the new immigration pathways, expedite the processing of applications, and provide support to Ukrainians once they arrive in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada has been at the forefront of the international community’s support for Ukraine and its people, and in its condemnation of the Russian leadership’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion. Among Canada’s economic measures, the Prime Minister announced on February 28, 2022, a ban on all imports of crude oil, gas and other petroleum products from Russia.Canada is working with Allies bilaterally and in various multilateral fora including the G7, G20 and International Energy Agency to identify options to stabilize global energy markets and reduce Europe’s dependence on Russian oil and gas products, including through further exports of low-carbon oil and gas. To this end, Canada recently announced an increase of oil and gas exports, the equivalent of up to 300,000 barrels per day by the end of 2022, with the intention of displacing Russian oil and gas while not increasing global emissions.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of May 2, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Part 5In September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since January 2022, National Defence provided nearly $120 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Budget 2022 designated $500 million towards further military aid for Ukraine.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two CC-130 aircraft to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered well over 1 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its likeminded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence, including through the authorization of more than $160 million in military aid, and an additional $500 million announced on April 7 as part of the federal budget announcement. Military aid includes rocket launchers, grenades, anti-tank weapons, small arms, and ammunition. Canada has also recently contributed M777 howitzers, on which Canadian troops will be training Ukrainian forces, a large number of additional Carl Gustaf anti-armour ammunition, and finalized contracts for eight commercial patterned armoured vehicles that will be sent to Ukraine as soon as possible. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada has been supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, PSOPs has developed in excess of $9 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against nearly 1000 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation. Most recently, Canada sanctioned another 33 military entities directly or indirectly supporting the Russian government. These decisions will help undermine and erode the capabilities of the Russian and Belarusian military.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime, until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.Budget 2022 is now proposing measures to not only seize but to allow for the forfeiture and disposal of the assets of sanctioned individuals and entities. These measures will further allow Canada to redistribute the proceeds of these forfeitures for post-war reconstruction, restoration of international peace and security, and compensation to victims These changes will make Canada’s sanctions regime a leader in the G7.On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has announced $245 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. To date, $145 million has been allocated to United Nations organizations, the Red Cross Movement and non-governmental organizations. This also includes a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that addresses emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they can meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $300 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Budget 2022 announced that Canada will offer up to $1 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada led in the referral of the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account.Ukraine filed an application with the International Court of Justice to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. The Court granted provisional measures, including ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine. Canada welcomed the Court’s order and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate and gather evidence.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with likeminded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of April 24, more than 20, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
RussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01248441-01248 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 30, 2023May 15, 2023March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 85% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's implementation of visa-free travel for Ukrainians to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately waive all visa requirements and grant visa-free travel to Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada. Canada and Ukraine maintain a close friendship built on shared values and strong-people-to-people ties.Canada has implemented a number of effective immigration solutions to help the people of Ukraine, including the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on March 17, 2022. The CUAET is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) to seek temporary safe haven in Canada. This measure, which was extended on March 22, 2023, eases many of the normal visa requirements, eliminates most application and processing fees, and offers accelerated processing.  Key Ukrainian immigration figures can be found on a dedicated webpage.Canada’s visa policy decisions are made on a country-by-country basis. A range of objective criteria are considered before lifting a country’s visa requirement, involving a complex process similar to those of like-minded partners. Canada’s relationship with the country is a key consideration, but so too is the safety and security of Canadians, and the importance of maintaining a well-managed migration system. It takes time to complete a comprehensive visa review, and Ukrainians need help urgently. Ukraine’s visa requirement is not currently under review, but the situation is being monitored very closely to ensure the people of Ukraine continue to receive the support they need.
Passports and visasRefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 16, 2022441-00333441-00333 (Foreign affairs)EricMelilloKenoraConservativeONApril 1, 2022May 16, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • Russian President Putin has threatened all other nations, including Canada, that are assisting the people of Ukraine in their valiant defence of their country;
  • The Russian Federation poses a great and immediate risk to Ukraine and her allies;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine, such as being the first country to recognize their independence in 1991; and
  • Since 1992, Ukraine participated in various UN and NATO peacekeeping operations.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Provide direct military assistance and further lethal weapons and supplies to the defence of Ukraine; and 2. Immediately urge NATO allies and Ukraine-friendly countries to close the airspace over Ukraine, deploy peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, and support the Ukrainian people.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of May 2, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Part 1In September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since January 2022, National Defence provided nearly $120 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Budget 2022 designated $500 million towards further military aid for Ukraine.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two CC-130 aircraft to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered well over 1 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its likeminded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence, including through the authorization of more than $160 million in military aid, and an additional $500 million announced on April 7 as part of the federal budget announcement. Military aid includes rocket launchers, grenades, anti-tank weapons, small arms, and ammunition. Canada has also recently contributed M777 howitzers, on which Canadian troops will be training Ukrainian forces, a large number of additional Carl Gustaf anti-armour ammunition, and finalized contracts for eight commercial patterned armoured vehicles that will be sent to Ukraine as soon as possible. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada has been supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, PSOPs has developed in excess of $9 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against nearly 1000 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation. Most recently, Canada sanctioned another 33 military entities directly or indirectly supporting the Russian government. These decisions will help undermine and erode the capabilities of the Russian and Belarusian military.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime, until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.Budget 2022 is now proposing measures to not only seize but to allow for the forfeiture and disposal of the assets of sanctioned individuals and entities. These measures will further allow Canada to redistribute the proceeds of these forfeitures for post-war reconstruction, restoration of international peace and security, and compensation to victims These changes will make Canada’s sanctions regime a leader in the G7.On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has announced $245 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. To date, $145 million has been allocated to United Nations organizations, the Red Cross Movement and non-governmental organizations. This also includes a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that addresses emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they can meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $300 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Budget 2022 announced that Canada will offer up to $1 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada led in the referral of the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account.Ukraine filed an application with the International Court of Justice to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. The Court granted provisional measures, including ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine. Canada welcomed the Court’s order and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate and gather evidence.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with likeminded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of April 24, more than 20, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the widespread destruction of cities and civilian infrastructure due to missile and artillery strikes, as well as bombing by Russian airplanes. Only the UN Security Council (UNSC) can make a legally binding decision that all member States must refrain from flight to, from or through the airspace of a specific State or region, pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII. In the current situation, Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, would veto any such resolution.Enforcing a no-fly zone is not a passive act; it would require sending aircraft and ground-based air defence systems from NATO Member States to target and possibly shoot down Russian aircraft violating the airspace in question, in order to prevent that aircraft from carrying out offensive operations on the terrain below.This would be a use of force, making the country that conducted the strike a party to the conflict, and it would also mean that NATO Member States would become targets themselves.NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has stated that imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine would “significantly escalate the war”, risking a “full-fledged war in Europe” between NATO and Russia and lead to “much more human suffering, civilian casualties, destruction”. This is why NATO Allies are providing significant support to Ukraine through sanctions, military aid and in multilateral forums, while not directly engaging in the conflict.We will continue to support Ukraine, including by providing them with the military aid they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Air defenceCanadian ForcesMilitary weaponsRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00881441-00881 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 28, 2022January 30, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00394441-00394 (Environment)JennyKwanVancouver EastNDPBCApril 8, 2022May 30, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada.  Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 19, 2022441-00352441-00352 (Foreign affairs)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBApril 5, 2022May 19, 2022March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 80% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's decision to allow Ukrainians to stay in Canada permanently.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately implement a government-assisted refugee program for Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada is committed to helping Ukrainians and has announced a number of new measures to help people affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. For Ukrainians who want to come to Canada temporarily, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel is open as of March 17, 2022, to an unlimited number of Ukrainians and their immediate family members fleeing the war. This is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members to come to Canada and eliminates many of the normal visa requirements. As of March 30, 2022, IRCC has already received more than 90,000 applications under this program. On March 30, 2022, the Government of Canada announced that Ukrainians entering Canada as temporary residents will have access to settlement services, which are typically only available to permanent residents. Settlement services include language training, orientation, employment-related services and other supports for Ukrainians as they settle into their new communities.  Further, in recognition that many Canadians and permanent residents have family in Ukraine, IRCC is quickly implementing a special family reunification sponsorship pathway.While the measures above fall outside of Canada’s Refugee Resettlement Program, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel allows for large numbers of Ukrainians in need to arrive in Canada more quickly than traditional refugee pathways.   The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) or other designated referral agency refers refugees to the Government of Canada under the Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR) Program. Individuals cannot apply directly to become a Government Assisted Refugee.The Government will continue to monitor the evolving situation in Ukraine, and engage with provinces, territories, and other partners on how we can continue to collectively support these efforts.
RefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 18, 2022441-00345441-00345 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 4, 2022May 18, 2022March 25, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills. 
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00388441-00388 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills. 
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2022441-00411441-00411 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 9, 2022June 2, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00268441-00268 (Foreign affairs)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMarch 24, 2022May 9, 2022March 23, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian invasion has triggered a human rights, humanitarian, and displacement crisis, the worst such catastrophe in recent European history;
  • As of March 10, 2022, the World Health Organisation estimates that at least 18 hospitals have been attacked by Russian forces since the beginning of invasion;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine;
  • As of March 11, 2022, over 2 million Ukrainian refugees have gone to neighbouring European countries; and
  • Abacus Data's public poll on March 9, 2022, shows that 85% of Canadians support or can accept the Government's implementation of visa-free travel for Ukrainians to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately waive all visa requirements and grant visa-free travel to Ukrainians.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Reply The Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada. Canada and Ukraine maintain a close friendship built on shared values and strong-people-to-people ties.Canada has implemented a number of effective immigration solutions to help the people of Ukraine, including the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on March 17, 2022. The CUAET is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) to seek temporary safe haven in Canada. This new measure eases many of the normal visa requirements, eliminates most application and processing fees, and offers accelerated processing.Canada’s visa policy decisions are made on a country-by-country basis. A range of objective criteria are considered before lifting a country’s visa requirement, involving a complex process similar to those of like-minded partners. Canada’s relationship with the country is a key consideration, but so too is the safety and security of Canadians, and the importance of maintaining a well-managed migration system. It takes time to complete a comprehensive visa review, and Ukrainians need help urgently. Ukraine’s visa requirement is not currently under review, but the situation is being monitored very closely to ensure the people of Ukraine continue to receive the support they need.
Passports and visasRefugeesUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 17, 2022441-00340441-00340 (Foreign affairs)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKApril 4, 2022May 17, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • Russian President Putin has threatened all other nations, including Canada, that are assisting the people of Ukraine in their valiant defence of their country;
  • The Russian Federation poses a great and immediate risk to Ukraine and her allies;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine, such as being the first country to recognize their independence in 1991; and
  • Since 1992, Ukraine participated in various UN and NATO peacekeeping operations.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Provide direct military assistance and further lethal weapons and supplies to the defence of Ukraine; and 2. Immediately urge NATO allies and Ukraine-friendly countries to close the airspace over Ukraine, deploy peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, and support the Ukrainian people.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of May 2, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Part 1In September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since January 2022, National Defence provided nearly $120 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Budget 2022 designated $500 million towards further military aid for Ukraine.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two CC-130 aircraft to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered well over 1 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its likeminded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence, including through the authorization of more than $160 million in military aid, and an additional $500 million announced on April 7 as part of the federal budget announcement. Military aid includes rocket launchers, grenades, anti-tank weapons, small arms, and ammunition. Canada has also recently contributed M777 howitzers, on which Canadian troops will be training Ukrainian forces, a large number of additional Carl Gustaf anti-armour ammunition, and finalized contracts for eight commercial patterned armoured vehicles that will be sent to Ukraine as soon as possible. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada has been supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, PSOPs has developed in excess of $9 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against nearly 1000 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation. Most recently, Canada sanctioned another 33 military entities directly or indirectly supporting the Russian government. These decisions will help undermine and erode the capabilities of the Russian and Belarusian military.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime, until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.Budget 2022 is now proposing measures to not only seize but to allow for the forfeiture and disposal of the assets of sanctioned individuals and entities. These measures will further allow Canada to redistribute the proceeds of these forfeitures for post-war reconstruction, restoration of international peace and security, and compensation to victims These changes will make Canada’s sanctions regime a leader in the G7.On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has announced $245 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. To date, $145 million has been allocated to United Nations organizations, the Red Cross Movement and non-governmental organizations. This also includes a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that addresses emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they can meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $300 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Budget 2022 announced that Canada will offer up to $1 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada led in the referral of the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account.Ukraine filed an application with the International Court of Justice to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. The Court granted provisional measures, including ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine. Canada welcomed the Court’s order and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate and gather evidence.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with likeminded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of April 24, more than 20, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the widespread destruction of cities and civilian infrastructure due to missile and artillery strikes, as well as bombing by Russian airplanes. Only the UN Security Council (UNSC) can make a legally binding decision that all member States must refrain from flight to, from or through the airspace of a specific State or region, pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII. In the current situation, Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, would veto any such resolution.Enforcing a no-fly zone is not a passive act; it would require sending aircraft and ground-based air defence systems from NATO Member States to target and possibly shoot down Russian aircraft violating the airspace in question, in order to prevent that aircraft from carrying out offensive operations on the terrain below.This would be a use of force, making the country that conducted the strike a party to the conflict, and it would also mean that NATO Member States would become targets themselves.NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has stated that imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine would “significantly escalate the war”, risking a “full-fledged war in Europe” between NATO and Russia and lead to “much more human suffering, civilian casualties, destruction”. This is why NATO Allies are providing significant support to Ukraine through sanctions, military aid and in multilateral forums, while not directly engaging in the conflict.We will continue to support Ukraine, including by providing them with the military aid they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Air defenceCanadian ForcesMilitary weaponsRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 19, 2022441-00353441-00353 (Foreign affairs)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBApril 5, 2022May 19, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked and an unjust war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine, including crimes against peace and crimes against humanity;
  • Russian President Putin has threatened all other nations, including Canada, that are assisting the people of Ukraine in their valiant defence of their country;
  • Tens of thousands of children, moms, and others are leaving Ukraine every day to escape the horrors of war;
  • The Russian Federation's aerial attack is devastating Ukraine as President Zelenskyy and others are calling for an international no-fly zone over Ukraine;
  • Russian President Putin has put nuclear deterrent forces on alert, which is an unprecedented and dangerous escalation; and
  • Russian President Putin is posing a great and immediate risk to Ukraine and her allies.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Immediately provide on-going further lethal weapons and supplies to the defence of Ukraine; 2. Take immediate action to enable the fastest way possible for displaced persons from Ukraine to be able to get to Canada;3. Take on-going actions to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine; and4. Immediately urge NATO allies and Ukraine-friendly countries to seriously consider supporting and enforcing an international no-fly zone over Ukraine.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of May 2, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Part 1In September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since January 2022, National Defence provided nearly $120 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Budget 2022 designated $500 million towards further military aid for Ukraine.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two CC-130 aircraft to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered well over 1 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Canada remains steadfast in its support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. On March 17, 2022, as part of the federal response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Government launched the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET). The CUAET is a special, accelerated pathway to help ensure that Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members of any nationality who are fleeing the conflict are able to quickly come to Canada to seek temporary safe haven. This initiative offers options to visit, work, or study during their three-year stay This is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members to come to Canada and eliminates many of the normal visa requirements. There is no charge for immigration documents under this pathway, and its benefits also extend to Ukrainians and their immediate family members who were already here in Canada when the initiative launched, but cannot safely go home. Applications under the CUAET are normally processed within 14 days (upon receipt of a complete, non-complex application), and there is no limit to the number of individuals who can apply.As the situation in Ukraine evolves, IRCC is monitoring developments, tracking application processing closely, and bolstering its actions where needed to support Ukrainians and their families.The Department is working in close collaboration with key internal and external stakeholders, including the Ukrainian-Canadian community, to prepare and implement responses to various escalating scenarios in the region. Measures in place since February 24, 2022, include:
  • Facilitating the departure of Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents, and their accompanying immediate family members, by ensuring expedited processing of travel documents;
  • Dedicated service channels that provide means for clients to obtain the most up to date information available;
  • Prioritization of temporary and permanent residence application processing for Ukrainians, and clients residing in Ukraine, as well as grants of citizenship for adoption;
  • A class-based national interest exemption to allow unvaccinated and partially vaccinated Ukrainian nationals who hold a temporary resident visa or permit to enter Canada;
  • An extension to the temporary public policy that allows some visitors in Canada, including Ukrainians, to apply for a work permit from within Canada if they received a valid job offer; and
  • Waiving of fees for travel and immigration documents, such as for Canadian passports, permanent resident travel documents, proofs of citizenship, visitor visas and work and study permits.
Prime Minister Trudeau announced on April 9, 2022 a series of measures to make it easier for Ukrainians fleeing the war to come to Canada including:
  • Targeted charter flights to Canada for Ukrainians;
  • Short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met; and
  • Temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.
These new measures will help more Ukrainians take advantage of the dedicated Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) program, while also providing relief to European partners who are currently supporting displaced Ukrainians. 
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its likeminded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence, including through the authorization of more than $160 million in military aid, and an additional $500 million announced on April 7 as part of the federal budget announcement. Military aid includes rocket launchers, grenades, anti-tank weapons, small arms, and ammunition. Canada has also recently contributed M777 howitzers, on which Canadian troops will be training Ukrainian forces, a large number of additional Carl Gustaf anti-armour ammunition, and finalized contracts for eight commercial patterned armoured vehicles that will be sent to Ukraine as soon as possible. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada has been supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, PSOPs has developed in excess of $9 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against nearly 1000 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation. Most recently, Canada sanctioned another 33 military entities directly or indirectly supporting the Russian government. These decisions will help undermine and erode the capabilities of the Russian and Belarusian military.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime, until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.Budget 2022 is now proposing measures to not only seize but to allow for the forfeiture and disposal of the assets of sanctioned individuals and entities. These measures will further allow Canada to redistribute the proceeds of these forfeitures for post-war reconstruction, restoration of international peace and security, and compensation to victims These changes will make Canada’s sanctions regime a leader in the G7.On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has announced $245 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. To date, $145 million has been allocated to United Nations organizations, the Red Cross Movement and non-governmental organizations. This also includes a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that addresses emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they can meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $300 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Budget 2022 announced that Canada will offer up to $1 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada led in the referral of the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account.Ukraine filed an application with the International Court of Justice to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. The Court granted provisional measures, including ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine. Canada welcomed the Court’s order and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate and gather evidence.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with likeminded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of April 24, more than 20, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the widespread destruction of cities and civilian infrastructure due to missile and artillery strikes, as well as bombing by Russian airplanes. Only the UN Security Council (UNSC) can make a legally binding decision that all member States must refrain from flight to, from or through the airspace of a specific State or region, pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII. In the current situation, Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, would veto any such resolution.Enforcing a no-fly zone is not a passive act; it would require sending aircraft and ground-based air defence systems from NATO Member States to target and possibly shoot down Russian aircraft violating the airspace in question, in order to prevent that aircraft from carrying out offensive operations on the terrain below.This would be a use of force, making the country that conducted the strike a party to the conflict, and it would also mean that NATO Member States would become targets themselves.NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has stated that imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine would “significantly escalate the war”, risking a “full-fledged war in Europe” between NATO and Russia and lead to “much more human suffering, civilian casualties, destruction”. This is why NATO Allies are providing significant support to Ukraine through sanctions, military aid and in multilateral forums, while not directly engaging in the conflict.We will continue to support Ukraine, including by providing them with the military aid they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Air defenceHumanitarian assistance and workersMilitary weaponsPassports and visasRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2022441-00314441-00314 (Social affairs and equality)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBMarch 29, 2022May 12, 2022March 3, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, residents of the province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • Canada's seniors should be a priority for all of us;
  • There are programs that support Canada's seniors like OAS and the GIS along with other public and private financial support programs that ensure seniors have financial means;
  • Governments and senior support groups often encourage and provide support programs like Canada's New Horizons Program which provides grants or Age and Opportunity groups that provide services;
  • Governments of all levels need to work together on issues like long term care and mental health for our seniors; and
  • It is important that leaders in our communities recognize the value of supporting our seniors who continue to contribute to who we are as a society no matter what their personal disposition might be.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon Canada's Members of Parliament to encourage, promote and advocate for the needs of our seniors.
Response by the Minister of SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): DARREN FISHERThe Government of Canada values the contribution that seniors have made and continue to make to our country, our communities, our workplaces and our families. The government is delivering on a number of commitments to provide support to Canadian seniors, to ensure their financial security, social inclusion, well-being and quality of life.While the percentage of seniors living in poverty decreased from 7.0% in 2015 to 5.4% in 2019, we know that some seniors still struggle to make ends meet. This is why our Government has taken further actions to reduce poverty. In 2018, the Government introduced Opportunity for All – Canada’s First Poverty Reduction Strategy. The Strategy offers a bold vision for Canada without poverty. It also sets concrete targets to reduce poverty amongst all Canadians, including seniors: by 20% by 2020; and by 50% by 2030; relative to 2015 levels. The Government’s poverty reduction efforts are already showing positive effects. According to the Canadian Income Survey, the poverty rate decreased by 30% from 2015 to 2019. This means that Canada has exceeded its interim target to reduce poverty by 20 percent by 2020. Between 2015 and 2019, over 1.3 million Canadians were lifted out of poverty, including 45,000 seniors.The Government supports seniors through a strong and stable retirement income system consisting of three pillars that Canadians can count on to be there today and into the future.  The first pillar is the residence-based, monthly Old Age Security (OAS) pension and the income-tested Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for low-income seniors.  Benefits under the OAS program include the OAS pension, which is paid to all persons aged 65 or over who meet the residence requirements, the GIS for low-income seniors, and the Allowances for low-income Canadians aged 60 to 64 who are the spouses or common-law partners of GIS recipients, or who are widows or widowers.The second pillar is the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), a social insurance program that is funded by the contributions of employees, employers and self-employed persons, and by the revenue earned on CPP investments. It covers virtually all employed and self-employed persons in Canada, excluding Quebec, which operates its own comprehensive plan, the Québec Pension Plan. The intent of the CPP is to provide contributors and their families with minimum basic income replacement upon the retirement, disability or death of a wage earner.  As an income replacement program, the amount of CPP benefits are generally based on each earner’s contributions to the CPP over their lifetime.  While primarily a retirement plan, the CPP also provides supplementary disability and survivor benefits, which reflect the social insurance nature of the Plan and are not a direct return on contributions.The OAS and CPP work together to provide a stable base upon which individuals can add income from private third pillar measures, such as employer-sponsored pension plans, registered retirement savings plans, tax-free savings accounts and other personal savings and investments, to address their particular financial circumstances.To ensure that they retain their value over time, OAS benefits are reviewed four times per year (in January, April, July and October) and CPP benefits are reviewed annually (in January) in accordance with changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI measures the price of a typical “basket” of goods and services, such as food, shelter, gas and clothing, commonly purchased by Canadian households. The quarterly indexation provides benefit increases to recipients when prices go up. In addition, the Old Age Security Act and the Canada Pension Plan each contain a guarantee ensuring that benefits can never go down, even in the event of a decline in the CPI.The Government of Canada remains committed to improving the income security of seniors and continues to seek ways to strengthen the OAS program, as demonstrated by a broad range of measures taken since 2015:
  • Budget 2016 restored the age of eligibility for the OAS pension and the GIS to 65, putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of future Canadian seniors.
  • In July 2016, the GIS was increased by up to $947 per year for the lowest-income single seniors, benefiting close to 900,000 vulnerable seniors across Canada.
  • In December 2017, the Government launched automatic enrolment to the GIS. Seniors who are automatically enrolled for the OAS pension are now automatically enrolled for the GIS without ever having to complete an application.
  • In Budget 2019, the Government enhanced the GIS earnings exemption so that low-income seniors who work are able to keep more of what they earn. As of July 2020, the enhanced exemption applies to both employment and self-employment income, and provides a full exemption on up to $5,000 of annual earnings, as well as a 50% exemption on the next $10,000 of earnings. This means that low-income seniors who work can keep more of their benefits.
The Government has also introduced several measures to protect seniors’ financial security during the COVID-19 pandemic. These included, in 2020, a one-time tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for the OAS pension, with an additional tax-free payment of $200 for seniors eligible for the GIS. This measure provided a total of $500 to low-income seniors who received both the OAS pension and the GIS. Allowance recipients also received $500.More recently, in Budget 2021, the Government committed to moving forward with investments that give Canadian seniors a better quality of life, including stronger financial security. In July 2022, the Government will increase the OAS pension by 10 percent for seniors aged 75 or over. In order to help address the immediate needs of this group of seniors, the Government provided a one-time payment of $500 in August 2021 to OAS pensioners who will be aged 75 or over as of June 30, 2022.In addition, the Government has committed to increasing the GIS by $500 for single seniors and $750 for couples, starting at age 65.Budget 2021 committed $90 million from 2021-22 to 2023-24 to support seniors in their homes through the Age Well at Home initiative. The timeframe for this initiative was recently extended to the end of fiscal year 2024-25.Age Well at Home will provide funding to local seniors-serving organizations to provide practical supports, such as meals, light housekeeping, yard work and transportation, to help low-income and otherwise vulnerable seniors stay at home longer. This initiative will also support regional and national projects that help expand services that have already demonstrated results in helping seniors stay in their homes. For example, knowledge hubs can help seniors access the local services available to them or provide information, resources and training to seniors-serving organizations delivering practical supports to seniors.The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) supports the Government of Canada’s overarching social goals to enhance the quality of life, and promote the full participation of individuals, including seniors, in all aspects of Canadian society.  The Program helps to ensure that seniors can benefit from and contribute to the quality of life in their communities. The NHSP promotes volunteerism among seniors and other generations; engages seniors in the community through mentoring of others; expands awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse; supports social participation and inclusion of seniors; and provides capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors.The NHSP reinforces that seniors are valuable assets to communities. By empowering seniors and encouraging them to share their knowledge, skills and experience with others in the community, the NHSP enhances seniors’ social well-being and community vitality. Seniors today contribute to their community, organizations and broader society by volunteering, participating in, and leading community activities. Since 2004, the NHSP has funded more than 30,500 projects with a total investment of more than $660 million.Addressing the issues faced by seniors is not only about the action of governments. Meaningful contributions are needed from a broad coalition of stakeholders. The Government receives valuable advice from a number of partners and stakeholders to inform its work.  For example, the National Seniors Council, established in 2007, provides advice to the federal government, through the Minister of Seniors and Minister of Health, on matters related to the well-being, quality of life and health of seniors. Additionally, through the FPT Seniors Forum, federal, provincial and territorial ministers and officials discuss issues of importance to seniors, share information on seniors’ wellbeing, and undertake initiatives to advance issues of common concern.The Government looks forward to continuing to work with the National Seniors Council, provinces, territories and other key stakeholders to support Canada’s seniors of today and tomorrow. 
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadians, including seniors, through the development of policies, programs and initiatives that promote the health, wellbeing, and quality of life of older adults, and through addressing issues in long-term care.The Government of Canada endorses various international initiatives related to aging and health, including the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) Age-Friendly Model. An age-friendly community is one that is designed to help seniors live safely, enjoy good health and stay involved. In an age-friendly community, structures and services are adapted to the needs of older people. These efforts continue to grow around the world and in Canada, where we now have over 1,400 communities across the country working to become more age-friendly. The Prime Minister has tasked the Minister of Health, in the context of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing, with working to promote seniors’ physical and mental health to enable them to live longer at home. This includes supporting the Minister of Seniors in their work to establish an expert panel to provide recommendations for establishing an Aging at Home Benefit.Canadians ultimately want to age at home or in their community, close to family and loved ones. That is why the Federal Government is providing $6 billion over ten years – starting in 2017 – for provinces and territories to improve access to home and community care services, including palliative care. This investment is helping more Canadians receive the care and services they need so that they may remain at home longer.The COVID-19 pandemic has also tragically exposed long-standing issues affecting long-term care facilities across the country. While the provision of long-term care falls under the jurisdiction of the provinces and territories, the Federal Government is working collaboratively with provinces and territories to improve the quality and availability of long-term care, and to support training and better wages for personal support workers. The Minister of Health’s most recent mandate letter reiterates the Government’s commitment to ensuring seniors get the care they deserve. This commitment builds on past efforts to support long-term care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.To address significant challenges revealed during COVID-19, in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Federal Government announced the creation of a new Safe Long-Term Care Fund. This fund is transferring $1 billion to the provinces and territories to protect people living and working in long-term care. Provinces and territories are able to use this money to improve infection prevention and control in facilities, including to assess infection prevention and control readiness, improve infrastructure such as ventilation, and address workforce gaps, including hiring more staff or raising wages.In addition, Budget 2021 announced a further $3 billion investment, starting in 2022-23, to support provinces and territories in their efforts to ensure standards for long-term care are applied and permanent changes are made. The Federal Government will work collaboratively with provinces and territories to flow this funding as part of our collective efforts to make sure that seniors and others in care settings live in safe and dignified conditions. This new funding will be available to help provinces and territories strengthen compliance and enforcement activities and support workforce stability, including through wage top-ups and improvements to workplace conditions (e.g. staff to patient ratios, hours of work). The Federal Government welcomes the news that the Health Standards Organization and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group) have conducted extensive consultation and have released their draft LTC standards for public review. This is an important step to improving care for seniors that will set the bar higher for safe and respectful care in these facilities.The Federal Government has also responded to COVID-19 in long-term care facilities in a number of other ways:
  • The Safe Restart Agreement provided provincial and territorial governments with over $19 billion to help them restart the economy, while making Canada more resilient to future surges in cases of COVID-19. This included $740 million in funding to support our most vulnerable populations through infection prevention and control measures to protect those in long-term care and those receiving home care and palliative care.
  • Provided $3 billion in emergency federal funding to provinces and territories to support increased wages of low-income essential workers, including personal support workers in long-term care facilities.
  • Supported provinces and territories in fighting outbreaks in long-term care facilities by providing personal protective equipment, contact tracing, rapid testing and vaccines. The Government also deployed the Canadian Armed Forces and funded direct assistance through the Canadian Red Cross.
  • Provided funding to Healthcare Excellence Canada for its LTC+ initiative, which spreads promising practices in preventing and mitigating the impact of COVID-19 in long-term care and retirement homes. This initiative has expanded to support more than 1,500 facilities across Canada.
  • Committed $38.5 million over two years to support training up to 4,000 personal support worker interns through an accelerated 6-week online training program combined with a 4-month work placement, to address acute labour shortages in long-term care and home care.
Seniors deserve to be safe, respected and live in dignity. The Federal Government continues to work in collaboration with provinces and territories to ensure seniors get the care they deserve, foster aging at home, and increase the resilience of long-term care facilities in order to prevent and mitigate challenges, including COVID-19.Our Government also has an important role to play in supporting evidence-based best practices to promote healthy aging. In 2018, the Government of Canada invested $75 million for the Healthy Seniors Pilot Project in New Brunswick. This project is examining how governments can better support seniors in their homes, communities and care facilities. The projects supported by this initiative are addressing a wide range of issues related to the health of older people.Dementia is also having a significant and growing impact in Canada, with more than 450,000 Canadians aged 65 and older with a diagnosis (2017-18). This number is expected to rise as Canada’s aging population increases. In 2019, Canada released its first national dementia strategy, A Dementia Strategy for Canada: Together We Aspire. The Government of Canada is supporting the strategy’s implementation through investments in research, awareness raising, guidance, surveillance and community-based projects. Furthermore, Budget 2022 proposes to provide $30 million over three years, starting in 2022-23, to the Public Health Agency of Canada, for the Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation to help accelerate innovations in brain health and aging. Budget 2022 also proposes to provide $20 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to ramp up efforts to learn more about dementia and brain health, to improve treatment and outcomes for persons living with dementia, and to evaluate and address mental health consequences for caregivers and different models of care.The commitment to support the mental health of Canadians, including seniors, is reflected in a number of ongoing investments. Through bilateral agreements with provinces and territories, the Government is investing $5 billion over ten years (2017-2027) to support increased access to mental health and substance use services. The Government is also continuing to work with partners and stakeholders to develop National Mental Health Standards. Once developed and voluntarily implemented, standards will help to support an evidence-based framework for service delivery that the public, service providers, and policy makers can rely on.The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected older adults who continue to experience a range of negative impacts as a result of the pandemic and has necessitated an increased need for mental health supports. To support older Canadians, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has released guidance, information and awareness resources on topics important to seniors’ health. In addition, through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million over three years, starting in 2021-22, to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including older adults.Seniors are also able to access the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) portal, launched by the Government in response to the increased need for mental health services resulting from the pandemic. Through the WTC portal, individuals across Canada can access free, 24/7, credible information and supports in both official languages to help address mental health and substance use issues. The portal offers services across the continuum of care, from self-guided resources to live coaching, peer support and counselling (including by telephone), allowing users to seamlessly “step” up or down to a different intensity of support appropriate for their needs. To help clients (including seniors) navigate the portal, a dedicated phone line is available for speaking with Program Navigators who can assist with finding the appropriate resources. Budget 2022 aims to provide $140M over two years, starting in 2022-23, in support of the WTC portal, so that it can continue to provide Canadians with tools and services to support their mental health and well-being.The Government recognizes that, as Canada heads into post-pandemic recovery, additional mental health supports will be needed. As a result, the first Minister of Mental Health and Addictions will seek to make mental health a full and equal part of the healthcare system, by delivering on a number of commitments, including engaging with provinces and territories to inform the development of a new Canada Mental Health Transfer.The Government of Canada will continue to engage with key partners and stakeholders to build evidence, raise awareness, and develop resources on key seniors’ health issues. Budget 2022 also proposes the creation of an expert panel that will report to the Minister of Seniors and the Minister of Health to study the idea of an Aging At Home Benefit. All of these commitments and investments in mental health, healthy aging, dementia, and long-term care ensure a better future for Canadians.
Senior citizensSocial benefits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2022441-00290441-00290 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 11, 2022March 25, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00897441-00897 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 30, 2022January 30, 2023March 25, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00712441-00712 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 27, 2022November 14, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 4, 2022441-00220441-00220 (Environment)RachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverNDPBCMarch 21, 2022May 4, 2022January 12, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) Canada announced new measures:
  • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
  • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
  • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada.  Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Housing and Diversity and InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00522441-00522 (Social affairs and equality)FrankCaputoKamloops—Thompson—CaribooConservativeBCJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022February 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00505441-00505 (Foreign affairs)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONMay 19, 2022August 17, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • Russian President Putin has threatened all other nations, including Canada, that are assisting the people of Ukraine in their valiant defence of their country;
  • The Russian Federation poses a great and immediate risk to Ukraine and her allies;
  • Canada is home to 1.4 million citizens of Ukrainian descent and has a deep and unflinching commitment to the people of Ukraine, such as being the first country to recognize their independence in 1991; and
  • Since 1992, Ukraine participated in various UN and NATO peacekeeping operations.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Provide direct military assistance and further lethal weapons and supplies to the defence of Ukraine; and 2. Immediately urge NATO allies and Ukraine-friendly countries to close the airspace over Ukraine, deploy peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, and support the Ukrainian people.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of June 15, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Provision of Military FundingIn September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since February 2022, National Defence has committed $274 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, drone cameras, funding for high-resolution satellite imagery, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Canada has committed $147.3 million of the $500 million announced in assistance to Ukraine in Budget 2022. From this funding, Canada is donating over 20,000 rounds of 155mm NATO-standard ammunition, which are compatible with the heavy artillery systems that Canada has already delivered. Canada will also provide 10 replacement barrels to enable to sustainment of these systems and to maintain their distance range and accuracy. We are working around the clock to commit military aid with the remainder of these funds.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help. Most recently, the Minister had another productive meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart during the third meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, on the margins of NATO’s Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two tactical aircrafts to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered nearly 2 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence. Canada has committed over $262 million in military aid to Ukraine, including M-777 artillery guns, which Canadian troops are training Ukrainian forces on, 155 mm ammunition, small arms, Carl Gustav anti-tank weapons, anti-tank rocket launchers, drone cameras, Roshel smart armoured vehicles, de-mining equipment and satellite imagery. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada is supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion specifically, PSOPs has approved more than $10 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against over 1070 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation.Most recently, Canada sanctioned additional individuals and entities in the defence and financial sectors that were directly or indirectly supporting the Russian regime.Canada prohibited the export to Russia of certain luxury goods and goods that could be used in the manufacturing of weapons and the provision of 28 services to the Russian oil, gas and chemical industries. These include technical, management, accounting, and advertising services vital for the operation of these industries, which account for about 50% of Russia’s federal budget revenues. We also prohibited the import of certain luxury goods from Russia.Canada will complement these measures by banning sanctioned Russians from entering Canada. Legislative changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) have been introduced to ensure foreign nationals subject to sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) are inadmissible to Canada.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.As per Canada’s commitments made as a member of the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO) multilateral taskforce, Canada has proposed legislative amendments that would allow for the seizure and forfeiture of assets belonging to sanctioned individuals and entities. The proceeds generated from the sale of these assets may be used for compensation to victims, the reconstruction of affected states, and the restoration of international peace and security. Canada will be a leader in this sanctions space once these new measures come into force. On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has provided $245 million in humanitarian assistance to UN, Red Cross, and NGO partners to respond to the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. This includes support for the World Food Programme in Ukraine to address food security needs, as well as a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada. Canada also sent 20 cargo flights with more than 377,000 essential relief items and financed the deployment of humanitarian exports to support the UN and Res Cross responses in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that is addressing emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they are better able to meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. In addition, Canada recently allocated $7 million in development assistance to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support those impacted by Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), as well as $2 million for the completion of a dairy plant in western Ukraine, to support food security efforts. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in bilateral loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $500 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Canada has offered up to $1.25 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account. To support the ICC investigations, Canada deployed an additional seven RCMP officers to the ICC and announced $1 million in funding to augment the court’s ability to investigate and prosecute conflict-related sexual violence and crimes against children. Canada is also supporting the deployment of two experts from the UN Women roster to support the UN Human Rights Council Commission of Inquiry (COI) on issues of sexual violence and gender.Canada coordinated a joint statement, issued on May 20 with 43 signatories, expressing support for Ukraine’s application against Russia at the International Court of Justice. Ukraine’s application seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. Canada also welcomed the Court’s provisional measures order ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine, and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission and a subsequent follow-up mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with like-minded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of June 7, almost 40, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. As of June 2, three charter flights from Poland have arrived in Winnipeg, Montreal, and Halifax.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the widespread destruction of cities and civilian infrastructure due to missile and artillery strikes, as well as bombing by Russian airplanes. Only the UN Security Council (UNSC) can make a legally binding decision that all member States must refrain from flight to, from or through the airspace of a specific State or region, pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII. In the current situation, Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, would veto any such resolution.Enforcing a no-fly zone is not a passive act; it would require sending aircraft and ground-based air defence systems from NATO Member States to target and possibly shoot down Russian aircraft violating the airspace in question, in order to prevent that aircraft from carrying out offensive operations on the terrain below.This would be a use of force, making the country that conducted the strike a party to the conflict, and it would also mean that NATO Member States would become targets themselves.NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has stated that imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine would “significantly escalate the war”, risking a “full-fledged war in Europe” between NATO and Russia and lead to “much more human suffering, civilian casualties, destruction”. This is why NATO Allies are providing significant support to Ukraine through sanctions, military aid and in multilateral forums, while not directly engaging in the conflict.We will continue to support Ukraine, including by providing them with the military aid they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Air defenceCanadian ForcesMilitary weaponsRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00933441-00933 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2022January 30, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00915441-00915 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 1, 2022January 30, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 29, 2023441-01756441-01756 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 16, 2023November 29, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 2, 2022441-00765441-00765 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 19, 2022December 2, 2022May 3, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Bill S-233 and Bill C-223 propose to develop a framework for a universal basic income;
  • A guaranteed basic income means that people would receive a paycheck even if they don't work or don't contribute to our communities;
  • The cost of sending every Canadian money and managing an income distribution system would be in the billions of dollars;
  • Universal income disincentivizes people from working and maintaining a job; and
  • Taxes would have to be astronomically raised to pay for this new expenditure.
Therefore we the undersigned, call upon parliamentarians to:1) Vote against Bill S-233 and Bill C-223 and any other legislation that encourages a universal income;2) End the carbon tax and reduce inflation that reduces people's purchasing power ; and3) Approve new and existing pipeline proposals getting Canadian energy to tidewater while stimulating job growth in Alberta and across Canada.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.As Canada collectively manages the dual crises of energy security and climate change, the Government of Canada recognizes that a strong oil and gas sector will continue to play a key role throughout Canada’s and the world’s transition to a low-carbon economy. A key part of supporting this transition is continued investment in new and existing energy infrastructure, including pipelines. Such investments are necessary to ensure the reliability of Canada’s energy system, including meeting current oil and natural gas demand and the transportation of various cleaner, low carbon fuels. Pipelines are currently the safest and most efficient way to transport crude oil and natural gas. Their use is expected to evolve as the energy transition continues – including the transportation of hydrogen, ammonia, and carbon dioxide.In the near-term, the Canadian energy industry is advancing projects to increase the capacity of Canada’s oil and natural gas pipelines to ensure access to export markets, which will also help Canadian producers receive a fair market price for their products. These efforts range from small increases to the capacity of existing pipelines by adding pumping or compression power, to the building of major new projects approved by the Government of Canada, such as the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, the Enbridge Line 3 replacement project, and TC Energy’s expansion of its Nova Gas Transmission Limited (NGTL) system of natural gas pipelines.Further efforts to increase Canada’s export capacity are also being explored, including investments in new natural gas pipeline projects to enable LNG exports from Canada’s West and East coasts. LNG Canada, which will begin exporting to Asian markets in 2025, and other proposed Canadian LNG projects, aim to develop the world’s lowest emitting facilities and establish reliable, direct access to global markets to capture higher value for Canadian natural gas, support allies’ energy security, and advance the global energy transition.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the key to advancing our country’s energy transition to a low-carbon economy is a skilled and well-trained energy workforce. Each province is unique and the approaches to a clean energy transition will be different across the country, using the abundance of each region’s resources, technology, talent, and experience. In Alberta, for example, such opportunities are expected to involve hydrogen derived from natural gas, carbon capture and storage (CCUS), critical minerals, renewable forms of energy and biofuels.Alberta is playing a critical role in Canada’s current and future energy economy, including the building of a prosperous net-zero future. In April of this year, the Government of Canada announced a combined investment of more than $7.5 million to four organizations in Alberta that are in the process of advancing emerging clean technologies. These technologies will help grow our economy and support Canada in its efforts to meet environmental targets, delivering clean and reliable energy and creating sustainable jobs for Albertans.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandIncome security is a shared jurisdiction across different levels of government. At the federal level, the Government of Canada already has programs with similar features to a basic income, such as the Canada Child Benefit for families with children, the Old Age Security program and the Guaranteed Income Supplement for seniors. In addition, existing programs such as the Canada Workers Benefit and Employment Insurance provide income supports for low-income individuals with labour market attachment or those with insurable employment. These programs exist alongside provincial and territorial social assistance programs.The Government of Canada continually undertakes research and analysis on a range of policies and programs as part of its efforts to ensure that all Canadians have a real and fair opportunity to succeed. Findings from this analysis underscore that a universal basic income program would represent a major change in Canada's social safety net, not only in scope and scale, but also in the way it would have to engage provincial/territorial jurisdiction over social assistance. As numerous academics have pointed out, any basic income proposal has to confront fundamental trade-offs in relation to the amount of the benefit level, the impact on work incentives, and program costs. Estimates from different sources place the cost of a basic income at between $80 billion to over $200 billion each year. Depending on choices on those trade-offs and the means of financing, basic income designs could lead some lower-income people to be worse off. For example, the Parliamentary Budget Officer’s recent basic income study in 2021 identified average annual losses exceeding $5,300 for single parents in the second lowest income quintile due to the elimination of existing programs/tax credits to finance a basic income in that model. 
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOn climate change, the science is clear—we must take action now to protect our planet and secure our children’s future. But the economics are clear too: to build a strong, resilient economy for generations to come, we must harness the power of a cleaner future.It is much harder to cut pollution if it is free to pollute. The principle is straightforward: a price on carbon pollution establishes how much businesses and households need to pay for their carbon pollution. The higher the price, the greater the incentive to pollute less, conserve energy, and invest in low-carbon solutions. Canadians and businesses understand that putting a price on carbon pollution spurs the development of new technologies and services that can help reduce their emissions cost-effectively, from how they heat their homes to what kind of energy they use to do so. It also provides Canadians and businesses with an incentive to adopt these changes or solutions into their lives. That's why experts consistently recommend carbon pollution pricing as an efficient, effective approach to reducing emissions.Since 2019, every jurisdiction in Canada has had a comparable price on carbon pollution. Canada's approach is flexible: any province or territory can design its own pricing system tailored to local needs, or it can choose the federal pricing system. The Government of Canada sets minimum national stringency standards (the "benchmark") that all systems must meet to ensure they are comparable and effective in reducing GHG emissions. If a province decides not to price carbon pollution, or proposes a system that does not meet these standards, the federal system is applied. In August 2021, the Government of Canada published strengthened benchmark criteria that all systems will need to meet from 2023-2030.A key element of the federal benchmark is the price on carbon pollution. The price on carbon pollution started at $20 per tonne of emissions in 2019 – and has been rising at a predictable rate of $10 per year to reach $50 in 2022. Starting in 2023, the price will start rising by $15 per year until it reaches $170 per tonne in 2030. The price schedule is laid out to 2030 to create certainty, which is important for attracting private sector investment.The federal carbon pollution pricing system has two parts: a regulatory charge on fossil fuels like gasoline and natural gas (the "fuel charge"), and a performance-based emissions trading system for industries, known as the Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS).The federal carbon pollution pricing system returns all direct proceeds back to the jurisdiction where they were collected. Some provinces and territories receive the funds directly and can use them as they see fit. In other provinces, the federal government uses the proceeds to support to individuals, Indigenous Peoples, families, and businesses through direct payments and federal programming.The majority of households in jurisdictions that receive Climate Action Incentive payments under the federal backstop system receive more money than they pay. Direct payments to households work because they help make the price on carbon pollution affordable, and enable households to make investments to increase energy efficiency and further reduce emissions. Jurisdictions that currently receive Climate Action Incentive payments are Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario.     
C-223, An Act to develop a national framework for a guaranteed livable basic incomeCarbon taxGuaranteed Income SupplementPipeline transportation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00638441-00638 (Civil and human rights)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBJune 22, 2022August 17, 2022May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • A review conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization found no information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes;
  • According to Westjet's first Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Tammy McKnight, as of April 23, 2021, there had been no known case of COVID19 transmission onboard any Canadian aircraft;
  • An International Air Transport Association study in 2020 found that out of 1.2 billion passengers worldwide, only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported as flight-related transmission;
  • Countries around the world have removed their vaccine mandates and restrictions; and
  • The vaccine mandate imposed on Canadians taking domestic flights, trains and ferries is an unreasonable infringement of their rights and freedoms that cannot be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Therefore we, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada and the Minister of Transport to:1) Abolish the domestic vaccine passport requirement for Canadian citizens and permanent residents taking domestic flights; and2) End all federally regulated COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraIn recognition of the critical nature of the transportation sector for Canadians and for the economy, the Government of Canada has been committed to keeping it safe and secure since the onset of the pandemic.Throughout the pandemic, Transport Canada has worked closely with federal partners, provinces and territories and the transportation industry to implement a comprehensive set of targeted and calibrated measures to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, to help keep Canadian travellers safe, and ensure the safety and resiliency of the Canadian transportation system.The public health and safety measures that the Government of Canada has implemented have been and will continue to be based on the best public health advice and science available. As the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved, so too have public health measures and advice. The Government of Canada will continue to evaluate measures and will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians and the transportation system safe and secure.Vaccination continues to be one of the most effective tools to protect Canadians, including younger Canadians, the healthcare system and economy. Everyone in Canada needs to keep up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccines, including booster doses to get ready for the fall. The Government of Canada will continue to work with provinces and territories to help even more Canadians get the shots they are eligible for.Vaccine Mandate in the Transportation SectorIn August 2021, the Government of Canada announced mandatory vaccination requirements for the federal workforce, federally regulated transportation sector, and certain travellers. These requirements, which came into effect on October 30, 2021, made vaccination against COVID-19 a requirement to board a plane, train or certain vessels in Canada, and required federally regulated transport sector employers to put in place mandatory vaccination policies for their employees. To support the safe resumption of cruise ship travel, which began in April 2022, travellers and crew on cruise ships are also required to be fully vaccinated.On June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel and for federally regulated transportation sectors; vaccination is no longer a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. Other public health measures, such as wearing a mask, continue to apply and will be enforced throughout a traveller’s journey on a plane or train. This change does not affect border measures that require all travellers entering Canada to continue following entry requirements, including vaccination.The Government of Canada’s decision to suspend the mandatory vaccination requirement for the domestic transportation sector was informed by key indicators, including the evolution of the virus; the epidemiologic situation and modelling (stabilization of infection and hospitalizations across the country); vaccine science; and high levels of vaccination in Canada against COVID-19.Federally regulated transportation sector employers: As of June 20, 2022, employers in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine sectors no longer need to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees. Employers will be responsible for establishing return-to-work practices.Cruise Travel: Given the unique nature of cruise ships, including the fact that passengers are in close contact with each other for extended periods of time, and Canada’s border requirements, vaccination against COVID-19 is still required for passengers and crew on cruise ships operating in Canadian waters. Adherence to strict public health requirements on cruise ships will still be required.Border MeasuresEarly in the pandemic, it was recognized that truckers and other workers performed services that were essential to keeping goods and services flowing, and they were allowed exemptions from strict border requirements put in place for most cross-border travellers.In January 2022, the Minister of Health, using the Quarantine Act, implemented vaccination requirements for some foreign national essential workers entering Canada, including Canadian and foreign national commercial truck drivers. The United States implemented similar measures in January as well, affecting foreign nationals.While the suspension of domestic vaccine mandates reflects an improved public health situation in Canada, the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve and circulate in Canada and globally. Given this context, and because vaccination rates and virus control in other countries varies significantly, current vaccination requirements at the border continue to remain in effect. This will reduce the potential impact of international travel on the health care system and serve as added protection against any future variant.  
COVID-19ImmunizationPandemicTravel restrictions
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00424441-00424 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 10, 2022June 21, 2022May 4, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS:Given current ecological, social and economic crises, our collective future depends on all levels of government and Canadians to make informed and responsible decisions regarding environment and sustainability matters;We have entered an age whereby human impact is approaching many ecological system boundaries such as fresh water usage, atmospheric pollution, and extinction of species;The current state of environmental education in Canada is inadequate to address these challenges and empower citizens to understand the complexity of the issues and take effective action; and The government of Canada should provide coherent national leadership in environmental and sustainability education and recognize the importance of Indigenous Knowledges and practices in the education of Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the House of Commons to take a leadership role in enacting a Canadian strategy that supports educators, communicators, community leaders, as well as provincial and municipal governments to take actions that result in healthy, sustainable, and flourishing human and ecological communities.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Minister of the Environment and Climate Change has a mandate to provide Canadians with environmental information in the public interest, and promote and encourage practices and conduct that help to preserve the environment, in cooperation with partners such as provincial governments, Indigenous peoples, not-for-profit organizations, academic institutions and others to advance this mission. Last year, the Minister was also mandated by the Prime Minister to engage with Canadians to better communicate the impact of climate change. Environmental education is critical to tackling the environmental challenges Canada is facing today and will face tomorrow. It is also an important part of our international commitments. Canada is actively engaged in the work of Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). ACE emphasizes the importance of education to address the climate crisis and promote sustainability. Its overarching goal is to empower people to engage in climate action through education, training, public awareness, public participation, public access to information, and international cooperation on these issues. It also emphasizes the importance of youth voices in climate change action.These obligations are taken very seriously, and the Department recognizes that more needs to be done to improve access to climate and environmental education. The views expressed in this petition will be taken under consideration.In Canada, provinces and territories are responsible for organizing, delivering and assessing all levels of education. The Government of Canada contributes to sustainability knowledge and education through various means including by undertaking and funding critical research that provides the foundation for environmental and sustainability education; working with and providing funding and support to diverse partners across Canada in support of this mission, and leading the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.Information, Research and ScienceThe Government of Canada has conducted a national assessment process of how and why Canada’s climate is changing. This assessment discusses the impacts of these changes on communities, environment, and the economy, and details how Canadians are adapting. A series of reports that followed the national assessment raise awareness of the issues facing the country and provide information to Canadians to support sound decisions and actions that address climate change and adapt to its impacts.The Government of Canada is also implementing the Roadmap for Open Science. This will make the scientific research process more inclusive and accessible to scientists and Canadians by making data and publications open and making research understandable and useful. In addition, the Government of Canada is developing a climate data strategy to ensure that the private sector and communities have access to data to inform planning and infrastructure investments.At Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the Canadian Centre for Climate Services provides information to improve Canadians’ understanding of how the climate is changing and how those changes could affect them, as well as guidance and resources to make climate-smart decisions.The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators program publishes high-quality indicators that provide Canadians with information on Canada's performance on environmental sustainability issues including climate change quality, water quality and availability, and species at risk.Research shows that Canadians trust scientists. To leverage its scientific resources, ECCC has developed a pilot program, in French and English, which helps ECCC scientists, researchers and science experts to become better science communicators and harness storytelling and presentation techniques to reach and motivate more Canadians to take environmental and climate action. Once trained, these experts are connected to the Canadian public through a network of schools, museums, science centres as well non-governmental organizations.Working with PartnersThe Program of Applied Research on Climate Action in Canada (PARCA), a multi-year program of research on climate change, was launched last year in partnership with Environment and Climate Change Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Privy Council Office. PARCA is applying behavioural science insights and methods with robust policy analysis to promote climate action and learn about how Canadians think, feel and act in response to climate change and the risks it creates. Specific behaviourally-informed solutions will be developed and tested, online and in the real world, with the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions emissions and promote climate adaptation at the individual and community level. This work will generate new insights on a rapid timeframe and use them to inform policy development, program design, and public communications. A large network of internal and external partners, including partners at multilateral organizations and an advisory committee of subject matter experts, will guide the research program to help ensure its relevance, rigour, and impact.Youth have an important role to play in climate action. Today’s youth and future generations will face the gravest environmental and climate consequences. The youth population is also particularly susceptible to mis- and dis-information. Meaningful youth engagement and education in environment and climate action is essential in building a more sustainable future. That is why the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council was created and its first cohort of 10 Canadians between the ages of 18 and 25 will soon be announced. Members of the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council will have meaningful opportunities to engage with government and provide input on the defining environmental issues of our time. They will gain skills and experience that will help start their careers, and connect with a network of like-minded young people.The Government of Canada also contributes to sustainability knowledge and education by funding research through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.In addition, ECCC’s EcoAction Community Funding Program provides financial support to non-profit and non-government organizations for Canadian communities to take on local action-based projects that produce measurable and positive effects on the environment and to build their capacity to sustain these activities in the future. EcoAction funds projects that lead to tangible environmental results, engage the community to improve the environment, increase environmental awareness and capacity in communities, and result in sustainable outcomes and engagement following project completion.The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a specified purpose account administered by ECCC, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to direct funds received from fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment. EDF funding is available for projects that address one or more of the program’s priority areas. Priority is given to projects that restore the natural environment and conserve wildlife, improve environmental quality, undertake research and development on environmental restoration and improve and/or advance education and awareness on issues affecting the health of the natural environment. This could include, for example, promoting education related to environmental damage restoration, including training for the assessment and restoration of damage, or for increased awareness and compliance with environmental regulations.FederalSustainable Development StrategyThe Government of Canada provides federal leadership on environmental and sustainability issues through the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, as detailed in the Federal Sustainable Development Act. Key aspects of this work are openness and transparency in providing information about sustainability in Canada. The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy brings the federal government’s sustainable development priorities, goals, targets and actions together in one place and enables parliamentarians and Canadians to track progress.All federal organizations subject to the Federal Sustainable Development Act are also required to develop a Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy every three years and report on its progress. These documents provide specific details on all departments’ plans and actions that advance sustainable development in Canada. As is stated by the Federal Sustainable Development Act,the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of involving Indigenous peoples in developing the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy given their Traditional Knowledge and unique understanding of, and connection to, Canada’s lands and waters. Indigenous youth will inherit the results of Canada’s sustainable development efforts. It is critical that no future generation of Indigenous youth is “left behind”.   
Environmental protectionSustainable communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00693441-00693 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 23, 2022November 14, 2022May 10, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS: Canada has signed the Paris Agreement; andSignatories to the Paris Agreement are required to "to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels".We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to take bold climate action to ensure that Canada plays its part to avoid runaway climate change and that this action include:1. Setting ambitious targets to lower Canada's emissions in order for Canada to assist in the international goal of avoiding a 1.5°C global average temperature increase above pre-industrial levels; 2. Implementing a national price on carbon;3. Arresting the growth in oil sands expansion;4. Working with the provinces to phase out coal-fired electricity and ending thermal coal exports; and5. Investing in the transition to a prosperous, decarbonized economy.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada recognizes that a secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  The Government of Canada also recognizes that a real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one that ensures a cleaner environment and significant opportunities to Canadian workers.At COP26, the Government announced that Canada will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with Canada’s climate targets and is consulting now on the path forward. Canada’s oil and gas sector, including the top oil sands producers, has made its own net-zero commitments. Companies are actively investing in developing and deploying emissions reducing technologies, services, and products. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future and a stronger economy, poised to seize low-carbon opportunities. The Government will continue to work with carbon-intensive industries to achieve Canada’s net-zero targets and will remain a strong advocate for a clean energy transition built on Canada’s non-emitting power advantage.The Government of Canada is also in the process of developing guidance for all future oil and gas production projects subject to a federal impact assessment, ensuring that they will have “best-in-class” low-emissions performance. Successful proponents are building energy transition considerations into project design, such as plans to transition to hydrogen production and export. Increasingly, consumers are looking to source energy products produced with the lowest possible carbon intensity.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe science is clear that accelerated efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, are necessary in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The economics are clear too – to build a strong, resilient economy for generations to come, we must harness the power of a cleaner future.The Government of Canada recognizes this reality, and since 2015 has taken significant, ambitious steps to reduce emissions, protect the environment, spur clean technologies and innovation, and help Canadians and communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.In 2016, the Government of Canada developed the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, in collaboration with provinces and territories, and with input from Indigenous peoples. Building on this national effort, the Government of Canada released its strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, in December 2020, to deepen emissions reductions across the economy, create new, well-paying jobs, make life more affordable for households, and build a better future.In 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (the Act) provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on these commitments. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Actalso holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Act,Canada published the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target, including a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Measures introduced by the Government of Canada since 2015 include:
  • Bringing into force the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act ensuring that every Canadian jurisdiction has a price on carbon. The price on carbon pollution started at $20 per tonne of emissions in 2019 – and has been rising at a predictable rate of $10 per year to reach $50 in 2022. Starting in 2023, the price will start rising by $15 per year until it reaches $170 per tonne in 2030;
  • Committing to accelerate our G20 commitment to eliminate inefficient fossil fuel subsidies from 2023 to 2025, and develop a plan to phase out public financing of the fossil fuel sector including by federal Crown corporations;
  • Accelerating the phase-out of coal-fired electricity generation, and positioning the oil and gas sector to cut pollution by working with stakeholders to implement a cap on oil and gas sector emissions;
  • Working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • Building Canada’s renewable electricity future by continuing to advance the Clean Electricity Standard to enable Canada to achieve at net-zero electricity grid by 2035, and making significant investments to support renewable electricity and grid modernization projects;
  • Helping to reduce energy costs for homes and buildings, and boosting climate resiliency;
  • Driving progress on clean cars and trucks through investments in zero-emission vehicles charging and refueling infrastructure, and the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program;
  • Establishing of the Canadian Centre for Climate Services which provides climate information and support to help Canadians consider climate change in their decisions, including health-related adaptation decisions via the collaborative climate information portal, ClimateData.ca; and,
  • Developing a climate lens to integrate climate considerations throughout Government of Canada decision-making.
The Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00509441-00509 (Democratic process)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 31, 2022September 20, 2022May 13, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Canada's electoral system from its very inception has always been a "First-past-the-Post" (FPTP) system, unfairly resulting in either a Liberal or Conservative government with virtually no opposition, no impact on the popular vote leading to distorted Canadian values;
  • Proportional Representation (PR) is a principle that says that the percentage of seats a party has in the legislature should reflect the percentage of the people who voted for that party, so that if a party gets 40% of the popular vote, they should get 40% of the seats;
  • In the 2021 election the Liberals had 32.62% winning 160 seats, Conservatives 33.74% winning 119 seats, Bloc Quebecois 7.64% winning 32 seats, NDP 17.82% winning 25 seats, People Party 4.94% winning 0 seat and Green Party 2.33% winning 2 seats;
  • Under a FPTP system, like the current system in Canada, a party can win a majority of seats and all the power with less than half the popular vote;
  • Proportional Representation (PR) ensures that majority governments have an actual majority of the voters (popular vote) backing them;
  • Many other countries such as Germany, Italy, Ireland, New Zealand and the Netherlands have progressed from a FPTP system to a PR System; and
  • Many American States are seeking to implement "Ranked Choice Voting" so that all votes are calculated.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to move to a "Proportional Representation” system to bring credible representation to Canadians.
Response by the Prime MinisterSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is committed to improving and strengthening our democracy. Our electoral system (i.e., the fundamental rules determining how votes are translated into seats in the House of Commons) is one of the most foundational pieces of our democracy – at its core is a question of how we, as Canadians, govern ourselves. The Government’s view has been clear: major reforms to the electoral system should not be made if they lack the broad support of Canadians.In 2016, the Government consulted broadly with Canadians on electoral reform. In fact, the electoral reform consultations were among the largest and farthest-reaching consultations ever undertaken by the Government of Canada.These public consultations included 57 parliamentary committee meetings that heard from 763 witnesses, 172 consultations undertaken by individual Members of Parliament, a cross-country Ministerial tour that made stops in 18 towns and cities across every province and territory, and online consultations that more than 360,000 people in Canada participated.The Government of Canada is thankful to all Canadians who took part in these consultations.The Government listened to Canadians carefully and gained valuable insights into Canadian democracy. Canadians cherish their democracy and value the direct connection they have with their Member of Parliament (MP). Canadians want their parliamentarians to work with each other and to cooperate on policy. They want their government to be accountable. They want their MPs to act in the interests of their constituents. The Government agrees.A clear preference for a new electoral system, let alone a consensus, did not emerge from these consultations. Consequently, the Government decided not to proceed with changing the electoral system.Our work did not stop there. The Government also took steps to modernize the electoral process and to make it more accessible, transparent and secure. The Elections Modernization Act, which passed in 2018, represents a generational overhaul of the Canada Elections Act, allowing it to better address the realities facing our democratic institutions in the 21st century. The Government of Canada will continue to work to strengthen and protect our democratic institutions.The first-past-the-post system has served this country for over 150 years and advances a number of democratic values Canadians hold dear, such as strong local representation, stability, and accountability.
Electoral reformProportional representation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2023441-01216441-01216 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 29, 2023May 12, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00707441-00707 (Employment and labour)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 26, 2022November 14, 2022May 18, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Canada has signed on to the Paris Agreement, which includes in its text the principle of a Just Transition;
  • It is the government's responsibility to ensure a fair deal for oil and gas workers who, by no fault of their own, are losing their jobs as the Canadian economy transitions to renewable energy;
  • The skills of oil and gas workers can easily be transitioned to jobs in renewable energy with the proper allocation of resources; and
  • Employment in the sector of renewable energy has already surpassed rates of employment in oil and gas, and continues to grow.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Working alongside oil and gas workers, create a plan for a Just Transition for oil and gas workers in Canada and include in it the 10 recommendations put forward by the Task Force on Just Transition for Canadian Coal Power Workers and Communities.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is focused on building a net-zero economy that creates new economic opportunities, good jobs and sustainable prosperity for communities in all regions of the country, as well as new technologies and innovations that can be used at home and exported abroad.Putting people and communities at the centre of Canada’s climate actions and economic investments is key to achieving an inclusive clean energy transition; there is no low-carbon economy without skilled and well-trained workers.That is why the Government of Canada is committed to ensuring a just transition through the creation of sustainable jobs in every region of Canada and is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to create sustainable jobs across the country.On June 1, 2022, Minister Wilkinson launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables. The goal of these tables is to identify and pursue key regional economic opportunities presented by the global transition to net-zero, in collaboration with provinces and territories, as well as Indigenous partners, labour partners, industry, municipalities, and experts. The pursuance of these opportunities will create sustainable jobs across Canada.Already, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining across Canada. NRCan is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resource sectors and other key sectors to retrain workers in high-emissions industries and to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.The 2022 federal budget announced actions that will deliver approximately 500,000 training and job opportunities for Canadians, enabling them to take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy sectors. These investments include the $960 million Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program that will help both workers and employers by supporting solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. In addition, the Government is working on its commitment to launch a Green Jobs Training Centre to help workers across key sectors and occupations, improve or gain new skills in order to be on the leading edge of the zero-carbon industry.In July 2021, NRCan launched a consultation process to inform the development of legislation in support of these efforts. Canadians were invited to provide comments on just transition proposals. Over 30,000 email submissions were received. In addition, 17 roundtable sessions were held with a range of stakeholders, including workers and labour partners, industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, youth, and experts in skills, training, and diversity and inclusion.  The government is also in discussions with provinces, territories and Indigenous partners to understand their views.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Economic diversificationLabour forceOil and gasRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2022441-00787441-00787 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 24, 2022December 7, 2022June 5, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2022441-00785441-00785 (Justice)GérardDeltellLouis-Saint-LaurentConservativeQCOctober 24, 2022December 7, 2022June 1, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2022441-00292441-00292 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 11, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00606441-00606 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 16, 2022September 20, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00032441-00032 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022September 30, 2020Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, a new report published by the Associated Press has revealed that there has been an ongoing campaign of Uyghur birth suppression by the Chinese Communist Party which includes methods such as forced sterilization and abortion; and, Whereas, in addition to the recent news of coordinated Uyghur birth suppression, there is also a body of mounting evidence showing that Uyghurs are being subject to political and anti-religious indoctrination, arbitrary detention, separation of children from families, invasive surveillance, destruction of cultural sites, forced labor, and even forced organ harvesting; moreover, it is estimated that up to three million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities have been detained in what have been described as concentration camps; and, Whereas, evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and, Whereas, Canada cannot remain silent in the face of this ongoing atrocity. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Formally recognize that Uyghurs in China have been and are being subject to genocide. 2. Use the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act ("Magnitsky Act") and sanction those that are responsible for the heinous crimes being committed against the Uyghur people.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and is a priority in the Government of Canada’s engagement with China. The nature and scale of the human rights violations by Chinese authorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), under the pretext of countering extremism, are deeply disturbing. Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities face torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, obligatory patriotic and cultural education, as well as forced labour.Reports detail closures and destruction of Uyghur religious sites, including mosques and shrines important to that community’s religious, ethnic, and cultural identity. There are also reports of mass arbitrary forced separation of children from their parents by authorities. There are credible reports of forced sterilization, systematic rape and gender-based sexual violence. Throughout the region, Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities also face repressive physical and digital surveillance, which includes severe restrictions on movement, the forced collection of biometric data, and coercive police surveillance. The actions by the Chinese government are in violation of international human rights obligations and are inconsistent with the United Nations’ Global Counter Terrorism Strategy.As a result, on December 8, 2021, the Prime Minister confirmed that Canada, in line with its closest allies, would not be sending diplomatic representatives to Beijing for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Canada has worked closely with allies in the preceding months on this important issue, and remains deeply disturbed by the troubling reports of human rights violations in China.Canada has made several statements on the human rights situation in China at the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, including specific statements regarding Uyghurs in the XUAR (March 2018, September 2018, March 2019; September 2020; February 2021). Canada also made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of China’s Universal Periodic Review at the HRC in November 2018. Canada called on China to release Uyghurs and other Muslims who have been detained arbitrarily and without due process because of their ethnicity or religions, and to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Muslims, Christians, Tibetan Buddhists and Falun Gong.Canada also co-sponsored side events addressing human rights in Xinjiang on the margins of the HRC’s 40th session in Geneva (March 2019) and on the margins of the UN General Assembly 74th session in New York (September 2019). At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 6, 2020), Canada co-signed, along with 38 other countries, a joint statement on the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 21, 2021), Canada co-signed a joint statement on the human rights situation Xinjiang, along with 43 other countries. In June 2020, during the 44th session of the HRC, Canada and 27 other countries signed a joint statement on the human rights situations in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. In June 2021, during the 47th session of the HRC, Canada delivered a joint statement, co-signed with 42 other countries on the human rights situation in Xinjiang. As part of joint communications, Canada and other countries have called on China to allow unfettered access to Xinjiang to the UN and the Office of the High Commission for Human Rights.On January 12, 2021, the Government of Canada announced that it is adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing human rights abuses in the XUAR. This included measures to address forced labour, via the prohibition of imports into Canada of goods made in whole or part with forced labour and a business integrity declaration for Canadian exporters. Global Affairs Canada will continue to work closely with Canadian firms doing business in or with China to help them understand and mitigate the risks of doing business with entities possibly implicated in forced labour.The Trade Commissioner Service has updated its guidance for businesses on the risks of doing business in China, including risks related to human rights abuses. Ensuring companies adhere to responsible business practices is essential to manage social, reputational, legal and economic risks. The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies active abroad, in any market or country, to respect human rights, operate lawfully and conduct their activities in a responsible manner consistent with international standards such as the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights, and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. Among other things, the Government of Canada expects Canadian companies to adopt global best practices with respect to supply chain due diligence in order to eliminate the direct or indirect risk of involvement in any forced labour or other human rights abuses.On March 22, 2021, Canada announced sanctions against 4 officials and 1 entity under the Special Economic Measures (People’s Republic of China) Regulations, based on their participation in gross and systematic human rights violations in the XUAR. The Regulations impose a dealings ban on listed persons, which prohibits any person in Canada and any Canadian outside Canada from undertaking a broad range of financial and business transactions with any of the listed individuals or entities. The individuals listed in the schedule to the regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These measures were taken in coordination with the United States and the United Kingdom, and in solidarity with the European Union. These sanctions underscore Canada’s grave concerns with the ongoing human rights violations occurring in the XUAR, affecting Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities.Canada will continue to call on the People’s Republic of China to fulfill its international human rights obligations and to allow for meaningful, unfettered access to the XUAR so that impartial experts can observe and report on the situation first-hand. Canada will work collaboratively with partners to address the human rights situation in Xinjiang. Canada has the responsibility to work with others in the international community to ensure that allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity are investigated by an independent international body of legal experts.The promotion and protection of human rights are core priorities of Canada’s foreign policy. The Government of Canada will continue to raise its concerns regarding the human rights situation in Xinjiang and all of China, and will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsForeign policyGenocideUyghur
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00039441-00039 (Indigenous affairs)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022March 10, 2020PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Canadian constitutional law is accountable to the human rights obligations outlined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples;
  • Canada has also committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action;
  • The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has called on Canada to:
    • immediately suspend work on the Coastal GasLink pipeline until free, prior, and informed consent is obtained from Indigenous Peoples;
    • Immediately cease the forced eviction of Wet'suwet'en Peoples;
    • Prohibit the use of lethal weapons against Indigenous Peoples and guarantee no force will be used against them;
    • Withdraw the RCMP and associated security and policing services, from traditional lands;
  • Hereditary Chiefs have the right to grant consent, or not, for activities on their territories; and,
  • The Coastal GasLink project has the potential to release massive amounts of methane through the extraction, transport, liquefaction and regasification processes
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Commit to upholding the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action by immediately:
    • Halting all existing and planned construction of the Coastal GasLink project on Wet'suwet'en territory;
    • Ordering the RCMP to dismantle their exclusion zone and stand down;
    • Schedule nation-to-nation talks between the Wet'suwet'en Nation and federal and provincial governments; and,
    • Prioritize the real implementation of UNDRIP.
Response by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jaime BattisteThe Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations (CIR) would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their interest in the Wet’suwet’en Nation and Coastal GasLink pipeline project. The Government endorsed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2016 and on June 21, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act received Royal Assent and immediately came into force.  Canada is in the process of implementing the Declaration.The former Minister of CIR and the former British Columbia Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation met with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs between February 27 and 29, 2020. These talks initially focused on two separate topics: the recognition of Wet’suwet’en Aboriginal rights and title throughout their territory, and the issues arising out of the Coastal GasLink project. These topics were discussed separately. The parties made the decision to keep the pipeline matter separate from rights and title discussions, as the pipeline remains entirely within the jurisdiction of British Columbia and therefore is most appropriately addressed bilaterally between Wet’suwet’en and the Province.Canada, British Columbia, and the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 14, 2020, which broadly recognizes Wet’suwet’en rights and title throughout the Yintah (traditional territory) and that Wet’suwet’en rights and title are held by Wet’suwet’en Houses under their traditional system of governance. Ongoing nation-to-nation talks are focused on exploring a path forward toward substantive agreements that would describe future governance, areas of jurisdiction, and the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title. The federal Government remains committed to reconciliation with all Indigenous Peoples, including the Wet’suwet’en Nation. Despite the recent escalation of protest and enforcement activities, CIR is engaged in regular and ongoing negotiations with Wet’suwet’en and British Columbia with respect to the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title within the territory.
Coastal GasLink Pipeline ProjectIndigenous rightsWet'suwet'en First Nation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00114441-00114 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022September 22, 2020Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, a new report published by the Associated Press has revealed that there has been an ongoing campaign of Uyghur birth suppression by the Chinese Communist Party which includes methods such as forced sterilization and abortion; and, Whereas, in addition to the recent news of coordinated Uyghur birth suppression, there is also a body of mounting evidence showing that Uyghurs are being subject to political and anti-religious indoctrination, arbitrary detention, separation of children from families, invasive surveillance, destruction of cultural sites, forced labor, and even forced organ harvesting; moreover, it is estimated that up to three million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities have been detained in what have been described as concentration camps; and, Whereas, evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and, Whereas, Canada cannot remain silent in the face of this ongoing atrocity. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Formally recognize that Uyghurs in China have been and are being subject to genocide. 2. Use the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act ("Magnitsky Act") and sanction those that are responsible for the heinous crimes being committed against the Uyghur people.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and is a priority in the Government of Canada’s engagement with China. The nature and scale of the human rights violations by Chinese authorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), under the pretext of countering extremism, are deeply disturbing. Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities face torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, obligatory patriotic and cultural education, as well as forced labour.Reports detail closures and destruction of Uyghur religious sites, including mosques and shrines important to that community’s religious, ethnic, and cultural identity. There are also reports of mass arbitrary forced separation of children from their parents by authorities. There are credible reports of forced sterilization, systematic rape and gender-based sexual violence. Throughout the region, Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities also face repressive physical and digital surveillance, which includes severe restrictions on movement, the forced collection of biometric data, and coercive police surveillance. The actions by the Chinese government are in violation of international human rights obligations and are inconsistent with the United Nations’ Global Counter Terrorism Strategy.As a result, on December 8, 2021, the Prime Minister confirmed that Canada, in line with its closest allies, would not be sending diplomatic representatives to Beijing for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Canada has worked closely with allies in the preceding months on this important issue, and remains deeply disturbed by the troubling reports of human rights violations in China.Canada has made several statements on the human rights situation in China at the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, including specific statements regarding Uyghurs in the XUAR (March 2018, September 2018, March 2019; September 2020; February 2021). Canada also made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of China’s Universal Periodic Review at the HRC in November 2018. Canada called on China to release Uyghurs and other Muslims who have been detained arbitrarily and without due process because of their ethnicity or religions, and to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Muslims, Christians, Tibetan Buddhists and Falun Gong.Canada also co-sponsored side events addressing human rights in Xinjiang on the margins of the HRC’s 40th session in Geneva (March 2019) and on the margins of the UN General Assembly 74th session in New York (September 2019). At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 6, 2020), Canada co-signed, along with 38 other countries, a joint statement on the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 21, 2021), Canada co-signed a joint statement on the human rights situation Xinjiang, along with 43 other countries. In June 2020, during the 44th session of the HRC, Canada and 27 other countries signed a joint statement on the human rights situations in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. In June 2021, during the 47th session of the HRC, Canada delivered a joint statement, co-signed with 42 other countries on the human rights situation in Xinjiang. As part of joint communications, Canada and other countries have called on China to allow unfettered access to Xinjiang to the UN and the Office of the High Commission for Human Rights.On January 12, 2021, the Government of Canada announced that it is adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing human rights abuses in the XUAR. This included measures to address forced labour, via the prohibition of imports into Canada of goods made in whole or part with forced labour and a business integrity declaration for Canadian exporters. Global Affairs Canada will continue to work closely with Canadian firms doing business in or with China to help them understand and mitigate the risks of doing business with entities possibly implicated in forced labour.The Trade Commissioner Service has updated its guidance for businesses on the risks of doing business in China, including risks related to human rights abuses. Ensuring companies adhere to responsible business practices is essential to manage social, reputational, legal and economic risks. The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies active abroad, in any market or country, to respect human rights, operate lawfully and conduct their activities in a responsible manner consistent with international standards such as the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights, and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. Among other things, the Government of Canada expects Canadian companies to adopt global best practices with respect to supply chain due diligence in order to eliminate the direct or indirect risk of involvement in any forced labour or other human rights abuses.On March 22, 2021, Canada announced sanctions against 4 officials and 1 entity under the Special Economic Measures (People’s Republic of China) Regulations, based on their participation in gross and systematic human rights violations in the XUAR. The Regulations impose a dealings ban on listed persons, which prohibits any person in Canada and any Canadian outside Canada from undertaking a broad range of financial and business transactions with any of the listed individuals or entities. The individuals listed in the schedule to the regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These measures were taken in coordination with the United States and the United Kingdom, and in solidarity with the European Union. These sanctions underscore Canada’s grave concerns with the ongoing human rights violations occurring in the XUAR, affecting Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities.Canada will continue to call on the People’s Republic of China to fulfill its international human rights obligations and to allow for meaningful, unfettered access to the XUAR so that impartial experts can observe and report on the situation first-hand. Canada will work collaboratively with partners to address the human rights situation in Xinjiang. Canada has the responsibility to work with others in the international community to ensure that allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity are investigated by an independent international body of legal experts.The promotion and protection of human rights are core priorities of Canada’s foreign policy. The Government of Canada will continue to raise its concerns regarding the human rights situation in Xinjiang and all of China, and will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsForeign policyGenocideUyghur
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00970441-00970 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 26, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00112441-00112 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022May 20, 2021Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, on February 23rd the Trudeau Government endorsed a Senate amendment to Bill C-7 that would allow Canadians with mental illness as their sole medical condition to access euthanasia. This expansion would automatically come into effect two years after Bill C-7 becomes law; Whereas, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) stated, "As a recovery-oriented organization, CMHA does not believe that mental illnesses are irremediable.";Whereas, suicidality is often a symptom of mental illness. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Canadians between the age of 10 and 19;Whereas, legal and medical experts are deeply concerned that permitting Canadians suffering from depression and other mental illnesses to access euthanasia would undermine suicide prevention efforts.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Reject the Senate amendment to present those struggling with mental illness with the option of an assisted death. 2. Protect Canadians struggling with mental illness by facilitating treatment and recovery, not death.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal matter for many Canadians and their families. Last year, our Government passed, Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying), which responds to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime. Bill C-7 also temporarily excluded mental illness as a medical condition that can ground eligibility.The Government believes that those who are experiencing persistent and intolerable suffering from their medical condition should be allowed to decide for themselves when they wish to end their life, and that medical and nurse practitioners who are willing to help them have a peaceful and painless death should not be criminally culpable for doing so.However, our Government recognizes the difficult issues that arise when a mental illness is the sole underlying medical condition for a MAID request. This is why Bill C-7, as adopted, excludes mental illness as a medical condition that can ground eligibility until March 2023. This temporary exclusion will provide time for a panel of experts and a Parliamentary Committee to advise the Government on protocols, guidance and safeguards to apply to MAID requests by persons who have a mental illness.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenOn March 17, 2021, new legislation on medical assistance in dying (former Bill C-7, now known as, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying)) received Royal Assent and came into effect immediately for all requests for medical assistance in dying (MAID) after that date. The new law removes the eligibility requirement for a reasonably foreseeable natural death, as well as easing certain safeguards such as the removal of the 10-day reflection period, only for those whose death is reasonably foreseeable.Over the past year, in particular during the study of the Act, a growing number of mental health and medical professionals have indicated that they believe MAID can be safely extended to those whose sole underlying condition is mental illness. While experts have said that only a very small minority of these individuals would likely be approved for MAID, they have also stressed the point that patients with mental illness can, and must, be evaluated on a case-by-case basis that takes into account the diversity of their circumstances. It was their view that Canadian practitioners, particularly those with specialized training in mental health and MAID assessment, would be able to evaluate capacity and determine eligibility in these cases.The Government of Canada recognizes that there are complexities associated with extending access to MAID to individuals suffering solely from mental illness, such as whether the person’s condition can be considered “incurable” or “irremediable” and challenges in assessing capacity. That is why the new legislation on MAID includes a 24-month sunset clause on the exclusion of MAID requests where mental illness is the sole condition. Importantly, the sunset clause in the legislation is accompanied by a legislative requirement to initiate an independent review by experts to consider protocols, guidance and safeguards that would be applied to MAID requests by persons who have a mental illness.The Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness was launched in August 2021 to undertake this review. Members of the Expert Panel reflect a range of disciplines and perspectives, including clinical psychiatry, MAID assessment and provision, law, ethics, health professional training and regulation, mental health care services, as well as lived experience with mental illness.The Expert Panel must submit a report of its conclusions and recommendations, which will be tabled in Parliament. This will provide Parliamentarians with time to consider whether additional safeguards should be added to Canada’s legal framework for MAID, and it will provide health professional regulatory bodies and associations with the information they need to develop appropriate guidance and resources.The new legislation also requires that a comprehensive review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to medical assistance in dying and their application be undertaken by a Joint Committee of both Houses of Parliament. The Parliamentary Review must address (but not necessarily be limited to) the topics of mature minors, advance requests, mental illness, the state of palliative care in Canada, and the protection of Canadians with disabilities. The Joint Committee was formed in the spring of 2021.Addressing mental health remains an important priority for the Government of Canada. Mental illness affects many Canadian families and individuals, and has an impact on our economy and society as a whole. Since 2015, our government has made significant investments to support the mental health of Canadians, including:
  • $598 million for a distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategy for Indigenous peoples;
  • $140 million to support veterans’ dealing with PTSD, depressive, and anxiety disorders; and,
  • $45 million for national mental health care standards.
Through Budget 2017, Canada made a historic investment of $5 billion over 10 years to improve access to mental health and addiction services. Budget 2019 also provided $25 million over 5 years to develop, implement, expand, and sustain a fully operational pan-Canadian suicide prevention service. Through this initiative, people across Canada will have access to crisis support in English and French when they need it using the technology of their choice – either voice, text or online chat.More recently, in April 2020, the Government of Canada launched the Wellness Together Canada portal, the first national program of its kind, providing a 24/7 suite of free, evidence-based mental health and substance use tools and services. Through Wellness Together Canada, individuals across the country can access supports ranging from self-assessment and peer support to confidential sessions with social workers, psychologists and other mental health professionals.To date, the government of Canada has invested $130 million in Wellness Together Canada. Since its launch, almost 2 million individuals across all provinces and territories have accessed the Wellness Together Canada portal in over 5.5 million web sessions. Additionally, through Budget 2021, the Government committed $45 million over two years to develop national standards for mental health, in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations, and key stakeholders.Through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada also committed $500 million in support during the pandemic for Canadians experiencing mental health challenges, homelessness, or substance use. Budget 2021 also announced $100 million to support the mental health of those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, seniors, 2SLGBTQQIA+, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Black and other racialized populations. It also provided $50 million to address PTSD and trauma in front line and essential service providers and those most affected.In 2022-23, to ensure that mental health care is treated as a full and equal part of our universal health care system, Health Canada will begin work to establish a new Canada Mental Health Transfer, to expand the delivery of high-quality, accessible and free mental health services, including for prevention and treatment. In addition, the department will sustain efforts to improve access to virtual mental health supports, as well as establish a new fund to support the mental health of post-secondary students, including improving wait times for services and increasing access overall. This will include targeted supports to Black, Indigenous, and racialized students at post-secondary institutions across Canada.
C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying)Health care systemMedical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2022441-00760441-00760 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 18, 2022December 1, 2022May 20, 2021Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, on February 23rd the Trudeau Government endorsed a Senate amendment to Bill C-7 that would allow Canadians with mental illness as their sole medical condition to access euthanasia. This expansion would automatically come into effect two years after Bill C-7 becomes law; Whereas, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) stated, "As a recovery-oriented organization, CMHA does not believe that mental illnesses are irremediable.";Whereas, suicidality is often a symptom of mental illness. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Canadians between the age of 10 and 19;Whereas, legal and medical experts are deeply concerned that permitting Canadians suffering from depression and other mental illnesses to access euthanasia would undermine suicide prevention efforts.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Reject the Senate amendment to present those struggling with mental illness with the option of an assisted death. 2. Protect Canadians struggling with mental illness by facilitating treatment and recovery, not death.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal matter. Last year, Parliament passed former Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying), which responds to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime.The Government recognizes the difficult issues that arise when a mental illness is the sole underlying medical condition for a MAID request. Former Bill C-7, as adopted, excludes mental illness, on its own, as an eligible medical condition until March 2023. This temporary exclusion provides time for a panel of experts to examine the issue and recommend protocols, guidance and safeguards to apply to requests for MAID by persons who have a mental illness. The Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness was launched to undertake this review, and tabled its final report on May 13, 2022. Former Bill C-7 also required the establishment of a joint Parliamentary Committee to study this issue and other important issues concerning MAID. The Special Joint Committee on MAID (AMAD) tabled its interim report on the topic of MAID where a mental disorder is the sole underlying medical condition on June 22, 2022. AMAD began meeting again in late September and will hear from mental health stakeholders in the coming weeks/months. The Government is following these processes closely and continues to consider ways to ensure that our MAID laws reflect our evolving understanding of Canadians’ needs, support autonomy and freedom of choice, and protect those who may be vulnerable.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is intended for persons who freely choose to pursue a medically assisted death in situations where they have a grievous and irremediable medical condition (as defined in the legal framework for MAID) and whose illness, disease or disability or associated state of irreversible decline causes them enduring physical or psychological suffering that cannot be relieved under conditions they consider acceptable. Canada’s legislation on MAID includes mandatory safeguards that must be applied to any formal request for MAID. In the case of individuals not facing a reasonably foreseeable natural death, there are several mandatory enhanced safeguards that must be applied by the medical or nurse practitioner involved in that person’s MAID request. For example, the legislation includes a requirement for the practitioner to inform the patient of the means available to relieve their suffering, such as counselling, mental health, physical health and community support services, and to offer consultations with relevant professionals who provide those services. This and other enhanced safeguards aim to help practitioners identify and potentially address the sources of suffering and vulnerability that could lead the person to ask for MAID. The Government of Canada recognizes that there are complexities associated with extending access to MAID to individuals suffering solely from mental illness, such as whether the person’s condition can be considered “incurable” or “irremediable” and challenges in assessing capacity. That is why the new legislation on MAID included a 24-month sunset clause on the exclusion of MAID requests where mental illness is the sole condition. Importantly, the sunset clause in the legislation was accompanied by a legislative requirement to initiate an independent review by experts to consider protocols, guidance and safeguards that would be applied to MAID requests by persons who have a mental illness.In order to implement this requirement, the Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness was launched in August 2021 to undertake this review. The Panel’s final report (tabled in May 2022) provides 19 recommendations which set out a thorough and rigorous approach to assessment of eligibility for MAID in complex cases (including but not limited to individuals with mental disorders).In addition, a review of the MAID legislation is currently underway by a Special Joint Parliamentary Committee. Among other issues, the Committee is mandated to review the issue of MAID for those with mental illness. In June 2022, the Committee produced an interim report related to the issue of MAID for individuals whose only medical condition is a mental disorder. The Committee urged the Government to work with provinces and territories and others to ensure that the recommendations of the Expert Panel are implemented in a timely manner. It is anticipated that the Committee’s final review will be presented on February 17, 2023.The Government of Canada is already advancing work in several areas identified by the Expert Panel, focusing on health system preparedness to address complex MAID cases more broadly, including but not limited to those involving a mental disorder diagnosis, in collaboration with provinces, territories and other partners. For example, we have convened a task group to develop MAID practice standards and we are funding the Canadian Association of MAID Assessors and Providers to develop accredited training modules for practitioners that will be launched early in 2023.Addressing mental health remains an important priority for the Government of Canada. Mental illness affects many Canadian families and individuals, and has an impact on our economy and society as a whole. Since 2015, our government has made significant investments to support the mental health of Canadians, including:
    • $598 million for a distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategy for Indigenous peoples;
    • $140 million to support veterans’ dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive, and anxiety disorders; and,
    • $45 million for national mental health care standards in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations, and key stakeholders.
To date, the Government of Canada has invested $270 million in Wellness Together Canada (WTC), the online mental health and substance use resource portal launched in 2020 to provide free access 24/7 to services and supports for mild to moderate mental health and substance use issues. The WTC portal offers resources with confidential counselling sessions with social workers, psychologists and other professionals. Since its launch, almost 3 million individuals across all provinces and territories have accessed the Wellness Together Canada portal in over 8.1 million web sessions.Through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada also committed $500 million in support during the pandemic for Canadians experiencing mental health challenges, homelessness, or substance use. Budget 2021 also announced $100 million to support the mental health of those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, seniors, 2SLGBTQQIA+, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Black and other racialized populations. It also provided $50 million to address PTSD and trauma in front line and essential service providers and those most affected.In 2022-23, to ensure that mental health care is treated as a full and equal part of our universal health care system, Health Canada will begin work to establish a new Canada Mental Health Transfer, to expand the delivery of high quality, accessible and free mental health services, including for prevention and treatment. In addition, the department will sustain efforts to improve access to virtual mental health supports, as well as establish a new fund to support the mental health of post-secondary students, including improving wait times for services and increasing access overall. This will include targeted supports to Black, Indigenous, and racialized students at post-secondary institutions across Canada.
C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying)Health care systemMedical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00006441-00006 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 24, 2021January 31, 2022March 16, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that children are safe from sexual abuse and exploitation, including when they are online. The Criminal Code of Canada provides a robust framework for protecting children from sexual exploitation, both online and in person. This includes offences such as possessing, making, accessing or distributing child pornography (section 163.1) and making sexually explicit material available to a child for the purpose of facilitating the commission of a sexual offence (section 171.1), in addition to a range of other child-specific sexual offences. Canada’s laws addressing child sexual offending also apply extra-territorially, meaning that prosecutions may occur in Canada for offences allegedly committed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents abroad.An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide Internet service came into force on December 8, 2011. This Act requires a Canadian provider of Internet services to report child pornography that they find on their servers in the ordinary course of conducting their business to police. As the designated organization under this Act, the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) also receives and processes reports of child pornography and child abuse on the Internet. C3P is a non-governmental organization that operates Cybertip.ca, which forwards child sexual exploitation leads to the appropriate authorities. C3P also provides public education and awareness materials, as well as support and referral services. In addition, C3P operates Project Arachnid, an automated web crawler that detects and processes tens of thousands of images per second and sends take down notices to online service providers to remove child sexual abuse material globally.In 2004, the Government of Canada created the National Strategy for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation on the Internet (National Strategy). The National Strategy focuses on law enforcement, prevention and education, and support for Cybertip.ca, Canada’s national tip-line for reporting online sexual exploitation and abuse. The National Strategy was renewed in 2009, bringing the total investment in fighting CSE online to over $18 million per year for Public Safety Canada, the RCMP and Justice Canada. In 2019, the Government of Canada announced an additional $22.24 million over three years to combat this crime. Public Safety Canada is the lead department on the National Strategy.Senate Public Bill S-210, An Act to restrict young persons’ online access to sexually explicit material, proposes measures to restrict access to sexually explicit material online, including through a new offence and new powers to compel Internet Service Providers to take steps to prevent access to the sexually explicit material to young persons on the Internet in Canada. This Bill will be debated in accordance with the rules that govern Senate Public Bills.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00664441-00664 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, Following Azerbaijan's 44-day war against the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorono-Karabakh), a trilateral ceasefire agreement was signed between Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia - outside of the purview of the OSCE Minsk Group - ceasing all hostilities on the territory of the Republic of Artsakh.Whereas, while failing to address many challenges facing the region, the agreement specifically included a term relating to the return of prisoners of war and the exchange of the remains of fatalities.Whereas, despite such provisions, as many as 200 Armenian Prisoners of War (POW) illegally remain in Azerbaijani custody, without any transparent mechanisms in place to ensure their safe return.Whereas, since December 2020, Human Rights Watch has published two reports on the status of Armenian POW’s, confirming that they are being subjected to inhuman treatment, torture, humiliation, and other forms of abuse.Whereas, on February 1st, 2021, The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights released a statement, calling for the immediate release of POW’s.Whereas, on May 4, 2021, disturbing reports confirmed that close to 20 POW’s were mutilated and killed by Azerbaijani forces. This is a violation of international law by Azerbaijan, specifically as it relates to the provisions laid out in the Third Geneva Convention, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), all of which are signed by Azerbaijan.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Condemn Azerbaijan's illegal detention of Armenian POW’s and call for their immediate release;2. Use all the diplomatic tools available to advocate for the release of those held captive;3. Condemn the ongoing state-sponsored anti-Armenian hatred in Azerbaijan;4. Denounce all aggressive rhetoric from Turkey and Azerbaijan against Armenia and Artsakh;5. Provide the necessary humanitarian assistance to ensure the safety and viability of the population of Artsakh and facilitate the exchange of the remains of fatalities.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuCanada supports a negotiated political solution to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Canada’s position is based on the UN Security Council Resolutions on Nagorno-Karabakh, the principles of the non-use of force, territorial integrity, and self-determination, as well as the continuation of dialogue between the parties towards promoting confidence-building measures and ultimately resolving the conflict through a negotiated political solution. Canada supports the efforts of the European Union and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe in bringing the parties together and assisting them to build mutual confidence at this very sensitive time.In September 2022, Canada expressed deep concerns about the escalation of tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the resulting loss of life and injuries on both sides. The renewed fighting was a reminder of the critical need to maintain dialogue and work towards achieving a comprehensive and lasting settlement of the issues that remain at the heart of the conflict. In response to these hostilities, the Minister of Foreign Affair, Mélanie Joly held calls with Armenian and Azerbaijan Foreign Ministers on September 15 and 17 respectively. In her conversations, Minister Joly expressed condolences for the loss of life, urged for the full respect of the ceasefire, and underlined the importance of meaningful dialogue. She stressed that there is no military solution to this conflict.Canada welcomes the ongoing engagement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, including the Leaders’ meetings in early October 2022, the renewed commitment to continue the meetings of the Border Commission, and the foreign minister-level discussions toward a peace agreement, under EU mediation. Such meetings are an important step toward ensuring greater regional stability.Canada monitors the situation related to the Armenian Prisoners of War (POWs) and other detainees, and is aware of the difficulties in securing their release. Canada welcomes the recent release of some Armenian prisoners by Azerbaijan. Through both bilateral and multilateral channels, Canada continues to call for the immediate release of all detainees as a key step in the confidence-building process. The release of POWs and detainees remains one of Canada’s priorities, and Canada will continue to raise its concerns whenever the opportunity arises.Canada remains deeply concerned about the allegations of human rights violations facing Armenian POWs and detainees, and calls on the respective governments to fully abide by the simultaneous orders issued by the International Court of Justice for provisional measures against both Armenia and Azerbaijan, including to take all necessary measures to prevent the incitement and promotion of racial hatred, including by officials and public institutions, and to protect persons captured by Azerbaijan during the conflict from bodily harm. The reports about Azerbaijani soldiers allegedly executing Armenian prisoners of war, which were made public in early October 2022, are deeply disturbing. Canada calls on Azerbaijan to follow through on the public commitment of Azerbaijan’s Prosecutor General to carry out an investigation into these reports. Canada continues to call on respective governments to investigate human rights allegations diligently in compliance with international human rights law.Canada engages regularly with both parties and consistently calls for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, encouraging both sides to continue working together. Canada has provided an additional $1 million in humanitarian funding to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2021. Global Affairs Canada has allocated up to $800,000 in funding through the Peace and Security Operation Program toward mine action activities on both sides of the dividing line in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which has supported the protection of civilian populations from the threat of explosive remnants.
ArmeniaAzerbaijanForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workersPrisoners of war
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00053441-00053 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 13, 2021January 31, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas, Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Whereas, tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;Whereas, in August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;Whereas, the Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post-2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi`s maternity ward in May 2020 or the targeted attacks in Behsud (Maidan Wardak province), Jibrail (Herat) and Jalalabad (Nangarhar) from January to March of 2021;Whereas, Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban;Whereas, Afghanistan remains one of the largest recipients of Canada's international financial assistance;Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide. 2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day. 3. Support Bill C-287 to ensure that all development assistance sent from Canada to Afghanistan is contributing to the peace and security of the region for all peoples.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan. Canada denounced the tragic attack on May 8, 2021, against a girls’ high school in Kabul, which claimed the lives of 85 people, mostly young Hazara girls. Attacks such as this are a visible demonstration of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, forced conversions and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and prosecution of the Hazara population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again. The determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must however be done by a competent international or national court or tribunal, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to which Canada is a party.Canada has repeatedly shared its concerns on the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances. With the Taliban’s return to power, Canada recognizes that Afghanistan is at a pivotal moment, and is closely monitoring developments on the ground. One of Canada’s foreign policy priorities is to ensure the respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that all ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.In 2021, the Government of Canada announced a total of $133 million in humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan. Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan and Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups over the past two decades. Canada is exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders and remote monitoring activities of the human rights situation by human rights bodies from outside of Afghanistan. Going forward, receiving unbiased and verified accounts of human rights atrocities will be crucial for the international community’s decision-making around its future engagement with the Taliban.On August 13, 2021, Canada announced a special humanitarian program to focus on particularly vulnerable Afghan nationals, including religious and ethnic minorities. Canada’s special immigration program has already brought thousands of Afghans, including Hazaras, to Canada, and teams across the world continue working to bring many more Afghans to safety.
AfghanistanGenocideHazarasInternational development and aid
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00106441-00106 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022December 10, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandResponse by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide ACCURATE, JUDGEMENT FREE and EVIDENCE-BASED information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government has committed to introducing amendments to the Income Tax Act to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 16, 2022441-00724441-00724 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 3, 2022November 16, 2022November 23, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas. The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits. The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics. The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors. The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less isolated areas of the country. The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems. The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging. Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion. It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system.It is important that the Government of Canada receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2022441-00311441-00311 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 29, 2022May 12, 2022November 23, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas.  The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits.  The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics.  The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors.  The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less isolated areas of the country.  The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems.  The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging.  Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion.  It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system. It is important that the Government receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 7, 2022441-00420441-00420 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMay 9, 2022June 7, 2022November 23, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas.  The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits.  The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics.  The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors.  The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less isolated areas of the country.  The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems.  The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging.  Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion.  It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system. It is important that the Government receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01666441-01666 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 26, 2023November 9, 2023September 14, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01069441-01069 (Taxation)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABJanuary 30, 2023March 20, 2023November 17, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Inflation has 7.7% in Canada as of May 2022, putting more financial burdens on Canadian households;
  • Gas prices have jumped by more than 50 per cent, pushing the cost of a litre to more than $2 in parts of Canada;
  • Per Natural Resources Canada, the federal government charges an excise tax of 10 cents per litre on leaded gasoline, 4 cents per litre on diesel, an additional 5% through GST, and another 11 cents per litre because of the carbon tax, marking up gas prices by nearly 20%;
  • The governments of Alberta, Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador have announced a reduction in provincial taxes collected from fuel sales to make life more affordable for residents of their province. Ontario households expected to benefit from an average combined savings of about $465 in 2022;
  • US President Joe Biden has called for a 3-month pause on the federal 18-cent-per-gallon fuel tax, while the U.K., Italy, and Germany have announced lowering fuel taxes, France has announced a consumer rebate, and Japan has announced a subsidy to wholesalers all to tackle record-high gas prices; and
  • The current federal taxes on gas purchases are punitive measures that are hurting Canadian households during a rapidly increasing cost-of-living crisis.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Finance to suspend the federal excise tax and carbon tax for Canadians until the cost-of-living crisis has been resolved.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandClimate action is critical to Canada’s long-term health and economic prosperity. Pollution pricing is widely recognized as effective and the most efficient means of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, which is why the Government of Canada has made sure that it is no longer free to pollute in Canada.The federal price on pollution is revenue neutral for the federal government; the direct proceeds from the federal pollution pricing system remain in the province or territory where they are collected. Put simply, every dollar collected from the pollution price is returned.In Yukon and Nunavut, the direct proceeds from the federal fuel charge are returned to the governments of these jurisdictions. In provinces that do not have a fuel charge consistent with the federal benchmark – Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta – 90 percent of direct proceeds from the federal fuel charge are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments. Most households receive more in CAI payments than the costs they face from the federal price on pollution. The other 10 percent is used to support small businesses, farmers and Indigenous groups.In 2023-24, the federal fuel charge will continue to apply in these provinces, and will come into effect as of July 1, 2023: Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia, where 90 percent of direct proceeds will be also returned to residents through Climate Action Incentive payments. Starting in July 2023, a family of four will receive $328 in Newfoundland and Labrador, $240 in Prince Edward Island and $248 in Nova Scotia each quarter; starting in April 2023, such a family will receive $244 in Ontario, $264 in Manitoba, $340 in Saskatchewan, and $386 in Alberta on a quarterly basis. Families in rural and small communities are eligible to receive an extra 10 percent. Some 8 out of 10 families receiving Climate Action Incentive payments get more money back than they pay in direct costs under this system, with families that earn less benefitting the most, on average.With respect to the federal excise tax on gasoline of 10 cents per litre, this rate has remained unchanged since 1995. This rate does not vary with the retail price of gasoline.To support those most affected by inflation, as of November 4, 2022, an estimated 11 million low- and modest-income people and families received an additional GST Credit payment, equivalent to doubling the credit for six months. Single Canadians without children received up to an extra $234, and couples with two children received up to an extra $467. Seniors received an extra $225 on average.
Carbon pricingCarbon taxExcise taxes
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 10, 2023441-01202441-01202 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 27, 2023May 10, 2023November 29, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians are committed to upholding the protection of international human rights;Canadians recognize that ethnic, religious, and other minority groups are routinely targeted around the world by human rights violators; andBill C-281, the International Human Rights Act, seeks to add additional protection against human rights violations and promote a stronger role for Parliament in that fight.Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to quickly adopt Bill C-281, the International Human Rights Act.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada is consistently a strong voice for the promotion and protection of human rights which is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Human rights are indivisible, universal and interdependent; they are inherent to everyone regardless of their race, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, ethnicity, religion or other identifying factors.Canada works with a range of partners, bilaterally and multilaterally, to support other countries in upholding their human rights commitments and advance accountability for human rights violations. Canada also continuously strives to further promote and protect human rights at home, in keeping with fundamental commitments contained in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and its many international obligations.The fight against all forms of systemic racism and discrimination requires ongoing commitment and cooperation. The engagement from members of all parties during the study of Bill C-281 by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development is a positive sign in that respect. The Government looks forward to continuing to monitor the progress of the bill as it makes its way through Parliament.
C-281, An Act to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act, the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (Sergei Magnitsky Law), the Broadcasting Act and the Prohibiting Cluster Munitions ActCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 13, 2022441-00818441-00818 (Taxation)ScotDavidsonYork—SimcoeConservativeONOctober 27, 2022December 13, 2022October 20, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • High inflation rates are driving the cost of living up for all Canadians;
  • The price of gasoline and diesel is hitting record-highs across Canada, making it more expensive for Canadians to get to work, transport goods, and to live their everyday lives;
  • The Government of Canada has continued to intake significant revenue from high fuel costs, far exceeding what would have been projected; and
  • Canadians need immediate financial relief.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Suspend the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on gasoline and diesel; and
  • 2. Suspend the carbon tax.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandClimate change is an existential challenge, and climate action is critical to Canada’s long-term health and economic prosperity. Pollution pricing is widely recognized as effective and the most efficient means of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, which is why the Government of Canada has made sure that it is no longer free to pollute in Canada.The federal price on pollution is revenue neutral for the federal government; the direct proceeds from the federal pollution pricing system remain in the province or territory where they are collected. Put simply, every dollar collected from the pollution price is returned.In Yukon and Nunavut, the direct proceeds from the federal fuel charge are returned to the governments of these jurisdictions. In provinces that do not have a fuel charge consistent with the federal benchmark – Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta – approximately 90 percent of direct proceeds from the federal fuel charge are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments. Most households receive more in CAI payments than the costs they face from the federal price on pollution.In 2023-24, the federal fuel charge will continue to apply in these provinces, and will come into effect as of July 1, 2023 in Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia, where 90 percent of direct proceeds will be returned to residents through Climate Action Incentive payments. Starting in July 2023, a family of four will receive $328 in Newfoundland and Labrador, $240 in Prince Edward Island and $248 in Nova Scotia each quarter; starting in April 2023, such a family will receive $244 in Ontario, $264 in Manitoba, $340 in Saskatchewan, and $386 in Alberta on a quarterly basis. Families in rural and small communities are eligible to receive an extra 10 percent. Some 8 out of 10 families receiving Climate Action Incentive payments get more money back than they pay in direct costs under this system, with families that earn less benefitting the most, on average. The GST Credit helps offset the financial impact of the GST for low- and modest-income people and families. The credit is paid quarterly in January, April, July, and October. To support those most affected by inflation, starting November 4, 2022, an estimated 11 million low- and modest-income people and families will receive an additional GST Credit payment, equivalent to doubling the credit for six months. Single Canadians without children will receive up to an extra $234, and couples with two children will receive up to an extra $467. Seniors will receive an extra $225 on average.
Carbon pricingCarbon taxGoods and services tax
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 27, 2023441-01133441-01133 (Government services and administration)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBFebruary 10, 2023March 27, 2023January 24, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • the temporary closure of the Winnipegosis Canada Post Office has resulted in hundreds of residents being redirected to Dauphin, a community 40 minutes away, to obtain their mail;
  • the transportation burden to seniors and persons with disabilities is amplified because of the temporary post office closure;
  • Canada Post was aware of the anticipated staffing shortages and failed to implement a solution that would ensure mail service would remain in the community;
  • this is another example of rural Canadians being neglected by government policy that fails to consider their unique way of life; and
  • mail service is an essential service.
We, the undersigned, residents of Winnipegosis, call upon the Minister of Public Services and Procurement to:
  • provide a detailed plan on when the Winnipegosis post office will fully reopen;
  • provide an explanation of why this essential service was closed despite the anticipated staffing shortage; and
  • work with Canada Post and the Minister of Rural Economic Development to ensure these temporary post office closures in rural areas are not normalized.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherThe Winnipegosis post office encountered staffing shortages due to unexpected circumstances, which resulted in a temporary closure last summer. Subsequently, staff were brought in from other offices (some as far as 275 km away) to work at the post office while a hiring process was initiated. In early October, while the hiring process was underway, Canada Post was unable to reallocate staff from other locations, resulting in the closure of the post office for approximately 4 days. Since that time, three term staff have been hired and trained. The office has been open since October 11, 2022.Staffing continues to be a challenge for Canada Post in many of its rural and northern post offices. In the event of any future unexpected temporary service disruptions, local operations will make every available effort to keep postal outlets open and operational.  Once these available efforts have been exhausted, impacted customers will be directed to an alternative post office to pick up mail if capacity, acceptable hours of operation and highway network service requirements are met.Canada Post remains committed to serving the people of Winnipegosis.
Canada Post CorporationPost offices and outletsWinnipegosis
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01073441-01073 (Foreign affairs)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONJanuary 30, 2023March 20, 2023December 12, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed numerous war crimes against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation and its forces have repeatedly engaged in violent, indiscriminate attacks on civilian centres in Ukraine, including preschools and kindergartens, hospitals, and apartment complexes;
  • The Russian Federation deliberately targets Ukraine's energy system with its missile strikes to shut down the power grid and cause a humanitarian disaster during the winter;
  • The European Parliament, the PACE, and the NATO Parliamentary Assembly have declared the Russian Federation to be sponsoring acts of terrorism in Ukraine;
  • Canada's House of Commons has unanimously recognized that Russia's acts in Ukraine amount to genocide; and
  • Canada is committed to upholding the principles of international law and international humanitarian law.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to immediately and publicly designate the Russian Federation as a state sponsor of terrorism.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada remains unwavering in its commitment to employ all appropriate means to respond to Russia’s actions, including war crimes committed in Ukraine.Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year, Canada has used a broad range of tools to respond to Russia’s actions. Canada has imposed an unprecedented number of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine. Under the Special Economic Measures Act, Canada has sanctioned over 2,000 individuals and entities in Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, as well as imposed numerous measures to increase economic pressure on the Putin regime and its allies, since 2014. These measures include strong dealings prohibitions, import and export prohibitions on a variety of goods and services, as well as denying Russian ships access to Canadian waters and ports.In addition to sanctions, Canada has also imposed other measures, including removing Most Favoured Nation Status and denying access to Canadian airspace to aircraft operated by or for the benefit of persons connected with the Russian Federation or Belarus.Canada has been steadfast in its commitment to support Ukraine’s security and resilience and to hold Russia accountable for its atrocities and crimes. This includes advocating for, and providing tangible support to, international and domestic Ukraine accountability efforts, including the investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Commission of Inquiry established by the UN Human Rights Council, and expert investigations under the OSCE Moscow Mechanism. Canada increased the number of RCMP deployments to 10 officers to support the ICC’s investigations, and are providing $2 million to an ICC Trust Fund to increase the Court’s capacity to investigate sexual and gender based crimes and crimes against children. Canada has also allocated $9.7 million to improve accountability for human rights violations in Ukraine, with a particular emphasis on cases of sexual and gender-based violence.On December 7, 2022, Canada and the Netherlands jointly intervened in Ukraine’s case against Russia at the International Court of Justice, which seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take military action in Ukraine on the basis of unsubstantiated allegations of genocide. In addition, Canada recently joined the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group for Ukraine (ACA) alongside the United States, United Kingdom and European Union. The ACA will directly support the efforts of the War Crimes Units of the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine to document, preserve, and analyze evidence of war crimes and other atrocities committed in Ukraine, to ensure those responsible are held accountable.The Minister of Foreign Affairs has stated that that what is happening in Ukraine are war crimes and crimes against humanity and has regularly rebutted Russia’s false claims.Canada will continue work with its allies to respond to hold Russia accountable for its actions and support the people of Ukraine.
RussiaSupporters of terrorismUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2023441-01440441-01440 (Health)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 11, 2023June 20, 2023February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The overdose crisis in Canada is a public health emergency, as has already been declared by British Columbia's Provincial Health Officer and several municipalities across Canada;
  • More than 13,900 individuals have died of opioid-related deaths and there have been 17,050 opioid-related poisoning hospitalizations in Canada since 2016;
  • There is disproportionate representation of Indigenous people affected by the overdose crisis; and
  • The Canadian Public Health Association, the Global Commission on Drug Policy, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations, have recommended drug decriminalization.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Declare a public health emergency due to overdose deaths in Canada;
  • Reframe the overdose crisis in Canada as a health issue rather than a criminal issue;
  • Take a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to the overdose crisis, by addressing issues of addiction, poverty, housing, health care, racial discrimination, and economic inequality and instability;
  • Listen to and act on recommendations made by social workers, front-line workers, nurses, doctors, drug users, and individuals directly involved in the drug-using community; and
  • Decriminalize drugs in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe toxic drug and overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. The Government recognizes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to a public health approach to address the crisis.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the crisis has only become more complex due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services due to COVID-related health measures (such as social distancing requirements, isolation requirements, etc.) and staff shortages, such as life-saving harm reduction, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience (PWLLE), to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need.The Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis as a health issue and is working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives.The Government of Canada recognizes that substance use is a public health issue, not an issue for the criminal justice system. We are committed to a public health approach to address the crisis. Canada’s approach to substance use issues is comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant actions and made commitments of more than $1 billion to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • Close to $500 million through the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) since 2017 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services; and,
  • $45 million to develop national standards for mental health and substance use services, in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations and key stakeholders, to address long-standing challenges in the delivery of mental health and substance use services and supports across the country; and,
  • $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction.
Budget 2023 proposes to provide a total of $359.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $5.7 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to support a renewed Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, which would guide the government's work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians. This includes:
  • $144 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Health Canada for the Substance Use and Addictions Program to fund community-based supports, including safer supply, supervised consumption sites, and other evidence-based health interventions;
  • $20.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada for a new community-based program to prevent substance use among young people; 
  • $73.9 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $4.6 million ongoing, to Health Canada to streamline authorizations for supervised consumption sites and drug checking services, scale-up access to safer supply, and evaluate innovative approaches;
  • $50.8 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $1.1 million ongoing and $1.3 million in remaining amortization, to Health Canada, and $16 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada to support vital data collection on substance-related harms and lab-based analysis of the illegal drug supply;
  • $4.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Safety Canada to develop an overdose monitoring app for paramedics and other first responders; and,
  • $42 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, $6.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Services and Procurement Canada, and $1.6 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, sourced from existing resources, to Global Affairs Canada, to take further action to work with our partners to tackle drug trafficking and stem the global flow of these devastating substances.
Of note, under SUAP, more than $26 million has been allocated to fund Naloxone distribution, education and training. In addition, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches for greater access to pharmaceutical-grade alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of June 2023, Health Canada has supported 31 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through SUAP representing total funding commitments of over $100 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects, and a National Safer Supply Community of Practice to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.Health Canada has supported the rapid expansion of supervised consumption services across Canada. Since January 2016, the number of federally approved supervised consumption sites offering services has grown from 1 to 40. Health Canada also proactively issued exemptions that allows provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing supervised consumption sites, shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Urgent Public Health Need Sites, unlike supervised consumption sites, are temporary locations that can be set up rapidly to address the overdose crisis. Both share the goal of reducing overdose deaths.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment and safer supply programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder; as well facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and,  
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
The Government recognizes that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments to ensure that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.The Government of Canada is also working closely with provinces and territories to change the way our healthcare system delivers mental health and substance use services to Canadians. It is important for Canadians to have timely access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, quality mental health and substance use services that meet their needs, including underserved and equity-deserving individuals. That is why, on February 7, 2023, the Prime Minister announced that the federal government will invest $198.6 billion over ten years to bolster the health care system, notably: top-ups to the Canada Health Transfer to address immediate health care pressures; and $25 billion over 10 years to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements.In response to substance use harms and the opioid overdose crisis, the Government of Canada is regularly consulting with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. The Government regularly engages with PWLLE and organizations that represent them, including: regular bi-lateral meetings with key organizations; participation on projects teams; facilitating PWLLE engagement in government and ministerial events and meaningful consultations in order to better understand their perspectives of substance use; and on-the-ground realities (e.g., roundtables, Knowledge Exchange Series, etc.).Health Canada established the PWLLE Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners.The Government of Canada continues collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, stakeholders and partners such as community-based organizations to reduce the harms associated with substance use and providing people with the culturally appropriate and trauma-informed support they need.Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of personal drug possession can, increase risks of overdose and other harms, increase barriers to care and perpetuate stigma. Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to using every tool at its disposal and examining all evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose.Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Among other measures, the amendments encourage police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the CDSA to reflect the Government’s public-health-focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada directing prosecutors that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for the personal possession of drugs, except where public safety concerns arise.In May 2022, at the request of the Province of British Columbia, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health granted a time-limited exemption under the CDSA so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province will not be subject to criminal charges for personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, where appropriate, individuals may be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they could also receive assistance to connect with those services. British Columbia requested this exemption, and it is an additional way that the federal government is supporting the province’s comprehensive approach to the overdose crisis. This time-limited exemption will be supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes. The results will help inform Canada’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance use harms. We have also received a request from Toronto Public Health, and we are working in close partnership to ensure both public health and public safety considerations are included. We will continue to work with willing jurisdictions to use all the tools at our disposal, including approaches related to decriminalization, to respond to this crisis.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 17, 2023441-01158441-01158 (Foreign affairs)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 16, 2023April 17, 2023February 8, 2023Petition to Leah Taylor Roy, MPTHEREFORE, the petitioners call upon Leah Taylor Roy, MP to:Demand the Canadian Government urgently follow through with the actions against the Iranian regime which includes making the regime, the IRGC and top leaders inadmissible to Canada, expanding sanctions against those responsible for human rights violations and denying them entry to Canada, and investing more money to allow sanctioned Iranian person's assets to be quickly frozen and seized. The Regime and its most senior officials including the IRGC - be immediately banned from entering Canada, and current and former senior officials present here be investigated and removed from the country as soon as possible; andWe also ask that you insist that the Minister of Global Affairs, the Hon. Mélanie Joly, and the Government of Canada, with its partners and allies, have Iran removed from the UN Commission on the Status of Women, which is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantLast October, Canada expanded the scope of the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) Iran Regulations to include gross and systematic human rights violations. This allows Canada to target sanctions at key Iranian individuals and entities who routinely, and as a matter of state policy, violate human rights or justify the Iranian regime’s actions to a domestic and global audience. Canada also announced several new measures to respond to Iran’s ongoing human rights violations and the threats Iran poses to international peace and security, including listing the Iranian regime, including the IRGC and its top leaders—more than 10,000 senior officials—as inadmissible to Canada because of their engagement in terrorism and systematic and gross human rights violations, by enacting a designation under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.As of March 27, 2023, Canada implemented its tenth round of sanctions targeting 106 individuals and 30 entities in the regime’s domestic repression, weapons proliferation and propaganda apparatus.Canada is steadfast in its support for the courageous women and girls of Iran who continue to demand justice, accountability and the full respect of their human rights and freedoms. The violent crackdown by the Iranian regime against its own citizens, in particular violence targeting women and girls, is not without consequence. As a member of the UN Economic and Social Council, Canada is committed to working with Member States to uphold the mandate and values of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and to ensure its continued credibility. That is why, last December, Canada voted in favour of a United States-led resolution to remove the Islamic Republic of Iran from the CSW, and urged other Member States to do the same. This UN resolution was successfully adopted by the UN Economic and Social Council.Canada continues to consider additional diplomatic actions it may take in response to the Iranian regime’s egregious behaviour domestically and beyond its borders.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada currently has the tools to refuse visas under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) in order to protect the safety of Canadians and uphold the integrity of Canada’s immigration program.Foreign nationals who are temporary residents living in Canada, and permanent residents, can lose their status and be removed from Canada if they are found to be inadmissible under IRPA or fail to meet its requirements.On November 14, 2022, the Minister of Public Safety announced the designation of Iran as a regime that has engaged in terrorism, as well as systematic or gross human rights violations. As a result of this designation, thousands of senior officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran, including those from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), are inadmissible to Canada.Measures are also currently in place under Canada’s immigration law to render inadmissible to Canada all individuals who have committed or been complicit in the commission of war crimes, crimes against humanity or genocide or on security grounds, such as membership in a terrorist organization. Therefore, individuals who are not captured by the designation but who have nevertheless been implicated in the atrocities committed by the Iranian regime, may be subject to sanctions and could be found inadmissible on other grounds, including for being a member of a terrorist organization. These individuals, if determined inadmissible, would be denied a visa.Some sanctions imposed against Iranian nationals under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) on the basis of gross and systematic human rights violations also render foreign nationals inadmissible to Canada. In May 2022, Bill S-8 was introduced in the Senate proposing amendments to IRPAto better align with Canada’s sanctions framework. If passed, a foreign national who is subject to SEMA sanctions, including sanctions made on grounds of a grave breach of international peace and security, would be inadmissible to Canada.If passed, the amendments would represent an effective and targeted measure to prevent Iranian nationals who are subject to SEMA sanctions for the implementation of repressive measures from traveling to and entering or remaining in Canada, as the implicated foreign nationals would be inadmissible to Canada and subject to potential removal proceedings.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has a legal obligation to remove all foreign nationals that are inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The CBSA places the highest priority on the removal of individuals found inadmissible on the grounds of criminality, international or human rights violations, organized crime, or security.In November 2022, the Minister of Public Safety designated the Iranian regime pursuant to Paragraph 35(1)(b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). This rendered all senior officials, more than 10,000 officers and senior members inadmissible to Canada in perpetuity for their engagement in terrorism and systemic and gross human rights violations. This applies to all Senior officials in the service of the Iranian government from November 15, 2019 onwards, including senior officials of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).The CBSA is investigating any such cases of possible inadmissibility for persons in Canada.Additionally, our government has also introduced Bill S-8, an Act to amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. Bill S-8 proposes legislative changes that would ensure all foreign nationals sanctioned under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA), would be inadmissible to enter Canada pursuant to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).These changes will allow the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to deny entry to, and remove, sanctioned individuals.CBSA is committed to the fair and equitable application of Canada’s immigration laws.
Foreign policyIranStatus of womenUnited Nations Commission on the Status of Women
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01798441-01798 (Fisheries)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:A public survey done in 2011 found that 70% of British Columbians agree with the statement that, "wild Pacific salmon are as important to British Columbians as the French language is to Quebeckers"; The Fraser River sockeye run unexpectedly collapsed in 2009, with only 1 million of the expected 10 million salmon returning to spawn; This collapse prompted the Government of Canada to launch a comprehensive Federal Commission of Inquiry, headed by the Honourable Bruce Cohen and released in 2012, to investigate the cause of this catastrophic decline; Among the 75 recommendations stemming from Justice Cohen's inquiry were:
  • The Government of Canada should remove from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans mandate the promotion of salmon farming as an industry and farmed salmon as a product,
  • The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should explicitly consider proximity to migrating Fraser River sockeye when siting salmon farms, should consider relocating existing salmon farms that are too close to existing salmon runs, and should consider prohibiting net-pen salmon farming altogether, especially in the Discovery Islands,
  • Department of Fisheries and Oceans should encourage British Columbia to require users of pesticides in forestry and agriculture to record, and report annually to the province, the areas where pesticides were applied and the amounts used, and
  • To improve future sustainability of the Fraser River sockeye, the Government of Canada should champion, within Canada and internationally, reasonable steps to address the causes of warming waters and climate change; and
Years later, the recommendations made by Justice Cohen in the Inquiry have yet to be implemented. THEREFORE, YOUR PETITIONERS call upon the House of Commons to act on the precautionary principle and immediately implement all of the 75 recommendations made by Justice Cohen to save our salmon.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Diane LebouthillierThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of the Cohen Commission’s recommendations and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), along with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), and the Province of British Columbia (BC), have now taken actions to address all 75 of the recommendations.Many of the Cohen recommendations are broad reaching, and consequently, acting on many of the recommendations is an ongoing task. Ongoing work on many of the Cohen recommendations continues, particularly across several key areas, such as salmon stock assessment, health status assessment, habitat protection and restoration, precautionary approach to salmon aquaculture, and fisheries management.Commitment to ongoing action is reflected in the Wild Salmon Policy 2018-2022 Implementation Plan which outlines specific activities and approaches led by DFO over the last five years towards restoring and maintaining healthy and diverse Pacific salmon populations and their habitats. A five-year report of the Implementation Plan was published on September 21, 2023 (https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/salmon-saumon/wsp-pss/annual-annuel/5-year-annee-eng.html).Please see the 2018 Cohen Response Status Update Report and Annex (https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/cohen/report-rapport-2018-eng.htm) for more detail on DFO’s actions to date in response to the Cohen Commission recommendations and the Wild Salmon Policy 2018-2022 Implementation Plan(https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/salmon-saumon/wsp-pss/ip-pmo/index-eng.html). Additionally, the third Wild Salmon Policy Annual Report was released on February 4, 2022 (https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/salmon-saumon/wsp-pss/annual-annuel/2020-2021-eng.html). Furthermore, the Government of Canada recognizes that a bold and targeted response with concrete actions is required to address the historic declines facing Pacific salmon. In response, the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative (PSSI) establishes a more comprehensive and transformative approach to support Pacific salmon rebuilding in both the immediate and longer-term. Working collaboratively with Indigenous groups, partners and stakeholders across British Columbia and the Yukon, the main goal of this initiative is to conserve and restore wild Pacific salmon stocks and their ecosystems, for all that depend on them. The PSSI’s four pillars to achieve this goal are: conservation and stewardship; salmon enhancement; harvest transformation; and integration and collaboration.DFO has addressed the Cohen Commission’s Recommendation 3: “The Government of Canada should remove from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ mandate the promotion of salmon farming as an industry and farmed salmon as a product” as per the ‘Annex to the Cohen Response 2018 Status Update: recommendation response detail’ (http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/cohen/annex-annexe-2018-eng.htm).The petition highlights Cohen Commission’s Recommendation 15: “The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should explicitly consider proximity to migrating Fraser River sockeye when siting salmon farms” and Recommendation 17: “The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should apply revised siting criteria to all licensed salmon farm sites. Farms that no longer comply with siting criteria should be promptly removed or relocated to sites that comply with current siting criteria.” It is also important to note Recommendation 19 in consideration of responses to Recommendations 15 and 17: “ On September 30, 2020, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans should prohibit net-pen salmon farming in the Discovery Islands (fish health sub-zone 3-2) unless he or she is satisfied that such farms pose at most a minimal risk of serious harm to the health of migrating Fraser River sockeye salmon. The Minister’s decision should summarize the information relied on and include detailed reasons. The decision should be published on the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ website.”In response to Recommendation 19, the Department looked at the overall risk to Fraser River sockeye salmon from pathogens that can be found at Atlantic salmon farms, which was important in assessing whether current siting criteria are sufficient in the protection of wild salmon stocks, including migrating Fraser River sockeye. The Department completed risk assessments on nine known pathogens, assessing the risk of these pathogens coming from aquaculture operations in the Discovery Islands area to Fraser River sockeye. It was concluded that each pathogen posed no more than a minimal risk to Fraser River sockeye salmon abundance and diversity under the current fish health management practices (https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/cohen/recherche-aquaculture-research-eng.html). DFO continues to update its understanding of pathogens and pests and adapt its management in response. Siting of aquaculture operations is a shared and harmonized process in BC, requiring a provincial crown tenure, a federal navigable waters permit, and a federal aquaculture licence. Aquaculture applications are submitted through a single portal, where the Government of BC considers siting through the lens of granting leases for provincial crown lands, Transport Canada considers siting related to safe navigation, and DFO considers siting relating to potential impacts to fish and fish habitat, potential impacts to existing fisheries, and fish health and wild-farmed interactions, which includes consideration of the proximity to wild salmon migration routes.Siting guidelines inform a proponent and the public on how a new or amendment application will be assessed. Licence conditions for aquaculture set out the specific operational and reporting requirements to which licence holders must adhere in order to operate legally and be in compliance with the Fisheries Act and associated regulations. They also contain provisions to ensure that aquaculture sites are operated in an environmentally sustainable manner that minimizes the risk to wild fish stocks and the marine resource.In fall 2020, the Department consulted with First Nations in the Discovery Islands to hear their views and concerns with respect to the aquaculture sites in the area. These perspectives informed the former Minister Bernadette Jordan’s decision in December 2020 to phase out Atlantic salmon aquaculture in the area by June 2022. While the Federal Court ultimately struck down that decision, former Minister Joyce Murray decided in June 2022 not to reissue Atlantic salmon aquaculture licences in the Discovery Islands, and to consult with First Nations and industry on the future of licensing in the area. In February 2023, following six months of consultations, former Minister Murray decided not to reissue licences in the Discovery Islands. Industry and some of the First Nations in the area filed a judicial review in Federal Court in March 2023 which is still a matter before the courts.The Government is moving forward on the development of an Open-Net Pen Transition Plan for salmon aquaculture in B.C. The vision of the Transition Plan is to advance innovation and growth in sustainable aquaculture in BC to progressively minimize or eliminate interactions between farmed and wild salmon, while also taking into account social, cultural, and economic objectives.In developing the Transition Plan, DFO will rely on input from the Province of British Columbia, First Nations, industry, local governments, stakeholders, and British Columbians. The Government is committed to ensuring that the transition from open-net pen aquaculture is done in a manner that respects the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples.In July 2022, DFO released a discussion framework, which outlines the vision for open-net pen transition in BC. Members of the public were invited to participate by completing an online survey, which was available until October 27, 2022; details about this process are available on the aquaculture engagement webpage. Other activities included Ministerial roundtables with Indigenous leaders, key stakeholders, and conservation organizations; as well as bilateral meetings and engagement sessions with First Nations; local and provincial governments; industry, academics, conservation organizations; and other stakeholder groups. In May 2023, a What We Heard Report summarizing Phases 1 and 2 of engagement was released.  In July 2023, in response to requests from First Nations and others, the time period for consultation on the Transition Plan was extended. The feedback and input received during this engagement will be instrumental in the development of the final transition plan.In relation to the Cohen Commission’s Recommendation 54: “The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should encourage the Province of British Columbia:
  • to require users of pesticides in forestry and agriculture to record, and report annually to the province, the areas where pesticides were applied and the amounts used to develop; and
  • maintain a pesticide-use database (that includes information on location, volume / concentration, and timing of use) and make that information publicly available.”
BC has a system in place to monitor, report, and disseminate information on pesticide use across sectors (aquaculture, agriculture, forestry). The province requires users to report pesticide use, and has the ability to provide information on total use. Standards of use are consistent with Health Canada requirements. As part of the Fisheries Protection Program, DFO will continue to coordinate and work with the Province of BC on areas of common interest. Specific to pesticides used for aquaculture purposes, under the authority of the Aquaculture Activities Regulations, DFO collects all information regarding the deposit of deleterious substances, including both drugs and pesticides. Any use of registered pesticides, including Hydrogen Peroxide are reported to DFO through a 72 hour notification requirement, and a quarterly report include dates and amounts of product used.Both ECCC and DFO have taken action in response the Cohen Commission’s Recommendation 74: “To improve future sustainability of the Fraser River sockeye, the Government of Canada should champion, within Canada and internationally, reasonable steps to address the causes of warming waters and climate change.” DFO works to address climate change impacts in aquatic ecosystems as a part of an ECCC-led, whole-of-government effort. Through this work, the department conducts vulnerability assessments on Pacific species, including salmon, to warming waters and continues to monitor trends in sea surface temperature, oxygen levels, and ocean acidification in freshwater and marine areas. These monitoring data are important to understanding the causes of change and are used by DFO in studies to quantify the rate of change in freshwaters and marine waters inhabited by Pacific salmon.
Cohen CommissionFisheries policyFisheries stocksFraser RiverPacific fisheriesSockeye salmon
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 22, 2024441-02265441-02265 (Health)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMarch 22, 2024February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Statistics Canada cites that approximately 4.8 million Canadians do not have a regular doctor;
  • Despite the number of physicians in Canada growing, the number of Canadians without a regular doctor remains stable;
  • 92 per cent of physicians work in urban centres, while just 8 per cent work in rural areas; and
  • In Victoria and Sidney, B.C., average wait time for a walk-in clinic are 92 and 180 minutes respectively.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Work with all the provinces and territories in Canada to come to a holistic and fair solution to Canada's family doctor shortage.
Family doctorsHealth services accessibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023441-01354441-01354 (Citizenship and immigration)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 26, 2023June 9, 2023March 6, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:Recent Hong Kong graduates can apply for open work permits under a temporary public policy for Hong Kong residents;Whereas in June 2021, there were two pathways, Stream A and Stream B, announced for Hong Kongers who have worked or studied in Canada to obtain permanent residency in Canada; Stream B required graduates to have one year of work experience in Canada and have graduated within the last five years from a Canadian (or foreign equivalent) post-secondary school;On February 6, 2023, Canada announced an extension and expansion of the open work permit program for eligible Hong Kong residents by extending the Open Work Permit (OPW) for an additional two years;This extension failed to address time constraints Stream B applicants face whilst pursuing eligibility for permanent residency; and2016-2017 graduates, who met the 5-year graduation requirement at the time of applying for their Open Work Permits, are falling out of eligibility to apply for permanent residency under Stream B of the scheme by the time their work permits are received and they have fulfilled the hours of work requirement,Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship of Canada to remove the 5-year restriction to include all persons who fulfill the educational credential requirement of Stream B.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Canada will continue to stand with the people of Hong Kong.This is evidenced by the special measures that the Government of Canada has implemented to date, including an open work permit of up to three years to work for any employer in Canada and two new pathways to permanent residence for Hong Kong residents already in Canada.  On February 2, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) further extended the open work permit measure for two more years, while also expanding eligibility to Hong Kong residents who have graduated within the past 10 years from a post-secondary learning institution in Canada or abroad. This means that more Hong Kong residents can pursue their career goals and gain valuable work experience in Canada.  In addition to these measures, it is also possible for all Hong Kong residents to apply using an existing immigration program, including under one of the many economic immigration programs or by applying to reunite with a family member through family sponsorship.The Government of Canada continues to monitor the situation to ensure immigration programs remain responsive to the needs of Hong Kong residents wishing to come to Canada. IRCC has listened carefully to the concerns raised by various stakeholders, and will continue to actively engage stakeholders in considering the options to adjust the program requirements.
GraduatesHong KongPermanent resident statusWork permits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 17, 2023441-01157441-01157 (Foreign affairs)KarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonConservativeONFebruary 16, 2023April 17, 2023February 8, 2023Petition to Leah Taylor Roy, MP for Aurora–Oak Ridges–Richmond HillWe, the undersigned, residents of Aurora, Oak Ridges, and Richmond Hill, Ontario, draw the attention of Leah Taylor Roy, MP for Aurora–Oak Ridges–Richmond Hill to the following and ask for her help in bringing this matter to The House of Commons.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon Leah Taylor Roy, MP, to:Demand the Canadian Government urgently follow through with the actions against the Iranian regime which includes making the regime, the IRGC and top leaders inadmissible to Canada, expanding sanctions against those responsible for human rights violations and denying them entry to Canada, and investing more money to allow sanctioned Iranian person's assets to be quickly frozen and seized. The Regime and its most senior officials - including the IRGC - be immediately banned from entering Canada, and current and former senior officials present here be investigated and removed from the country as soon as possible.We also ask that you insist that the Minister of Global Affairs, the Hon. Mélanie Joly, and the Government of Canada, with its partners and allies, have Iran removed from the UN Commission on the Status of Women, which is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantLast October, Canada expanded the scope of the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) Iran Regulations to include gross and systematic human rights violations. This allows Canada to target sanctions at key Iranian individuals and entities who routinely, and as a matter of state policy, violate human rights or justify the Iranian regime’s actions to a domestic and global audience. Canada also announced several new measures to respond to Iran’s ongoing human rights violations and the threats Iran poses to international peace and security, including listing the Iranian regime, including the IRGC and its top leaders—more than 10,000 senior officials—as inadmissible to Canada because of their engagement in terrorism and systematic and gross human rights violations, by enacting a designation under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.As of March 27, 2023, Canada implemented its tenth round of sanctions targeting 106 individuals and 30 entities in the regime’s domestic repression, weapons proliferation and propaganda apparatus.Canada is steadfast in its support for the courageous women and girls of Iran who continue to demand justice, accountability and the full respect of their human rights and freedoms. The violent crackdown by the Iranian regime against its own citizens, in particular violence targeting women and girls, is not without consequence. As a member of the UN Economic and Social Council, Canada is committed to working with Member States to uphold the mandate and values of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and to ensure its continued credibility. That is why, last December, Canada voted in favour of a United States-led resolution to remove the Islamic Republic of Iran from the CSW, and urged other Member States to do the same. This UN resolution was successfully adopted by the UN Economic and Social Council.Canada continues to consider additional diplomatic actions it may take in response to the Iranian regime’s egregious behaviour domestically and beyond its borders.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.The Government of Canada currently has the tools to refuse visas under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) in order to protect the safety of Canadians and uphold the integrity of Canada’s immigration program.Foreign nationals who are temporary residents living in Canada, and permanent residents, can lose their status and be removed from Canada if they are found to be inadmissible under IRPA or fail to meet its requirements.On November 14, 2022, the Minister of Public Safety announced the designation of Iran as a regime that has engaged in terrorism, as well as systematic or gross human rights violations. As a result of this designation, thousands of senior officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran, including those from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), are inadmissible to Canada.Measures are also currently in place under Canada’s immigration law to render inadmissible to Canada all individuals who have committed or been complicit in the commission of war crimes, crimes against humanity or genocide or on security grounds, such as membership in a terrorist organization. Therefore, individuals who are not captured by the designation but who have nevertheless been implicated in the atrocities committed by the Iranian regime, may be subject to sanctions and could be found inadmissible on other grounds, including for being a member of a terrorist organization. These individuals, if determined inadmissible, would be denied a visa.Some sanctions imposed against Iranian nationals under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) on the basis of gross and systematic human rights violations also render foreign nationals inadmissible to Canada. In May 2022, Bill S-8 was introduced in the Senate proposing amendments to IRPAto better align with Canada’s sanctions framework. If passed, a foreign national who is subject to SEMA sanctions, including sanctions made on grounds of a grave breach of international peace and security, would be inadmissible to Canada.If passed, the amendments would represent an effective and targeted measure to prevent Iranian nationals who are subject to SEMA sanctions for the implementation of repressive measures from traveling to and entering or remaining in Canada, as the implicated foreign nationals would be inadmissible to Canada and subject to potential removal proceedings.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Pam Damoff, M.P.The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has a legal obligation to remove all foreign nationals that are inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The CBSA places the highest priority on the removal of individuals found inadmissible on the grounds of criminality, international or human rights violations, organized crime, or security.In November 2022, the Minister of Public Safety designated the Iranian regime pursuant to Paragraph 35(1)(b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). This rendered all senior officials, more than 10,000 officers and senior members inadmissible to Canada in perpetuity for their engagement in terrorism and systemic and gross human rights violations. This applies to all Senior officials in the service of the Iranian government from November 15, 2019 onwards, including senior officials of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).The CBSA is investigating any such cases of possible inadmissibility for persons in Canada.Additionally, our government has also introduced Bill S-8, an Act to amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. Bill S-8 proposes legislative changes that would ensure all foreign nationals sanctioned under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA), would be inadmissible to enter Canada pursuant to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).These changes will allow the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to deny entry to, and remove, sanctioned individuals.CBSA is committed to the fair and equitable application of Canada’s immigration laws.
Army of the Guardians of the Islamic RevolutionForeign policyIran
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01537441-01537 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 13, 2023July 19, 2023March 21, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2023441-01236441-01236 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONMarch 29, 2023May 12, 2023March 8, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Every Canadian has a right to a safe and affordable place to call home;
  • The Canadian government legislated the recognition of housing as a human right;
  • The Canadian government launched its first-ever National Housing Strategy with a more than $72 billion investment; and
  • Budget 2022 earmarked a historic $14 billion investment to double the construction of new housing this decade.
We, the undersigned, residents of Kingston and the islands, call upon the Government of Canada to continue investing in affordable housing and improve housing outcomes for all Canadians, including members of this community.
Response by the Minister of Housing and Diversity and InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Soraya Martinez FerradaThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners from Kingston and the Islands for sharing their concerns about the right to housing as fundamental human right.Our Government strongly believes that all Canadians should have access to safe and affordable housing. That is why we introduced Canada’s first ever National Housing Strategy (NHS) and passed a legislation to make sure future governments do the same. The National Housing Strategy  is an $82-billion plan that sets ambitious targets to ensure that unprecedented investments and new programming deliver results.The National Housing Strategy Act (the Act) that came into force in July 2019 and represents an historic milestone for housing in Canada. The Act sets out a housing policy that recognizes the right to adequate housing as a fundamental human right affirmed in international law.The Act requires the federal government to maintain a national housing strategy to further the housing policy, taking into account key principles of a human rights-based approach to housing. The Act creates a Federal Housing Advocate and establishes a National Housing Council. Together, they will help identify systemic barriers to accessing affordable housing and advise the Government on housing policy in Canada.The National Housing Council provides advice to the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, including on the effectiveness of the National Housing Strategy, with the aim of improving housing outcomes. The members of the National Housing Council were appointed on November 22, 2020. For more information on the members and the mandate of the National Housing Council, please visit https://nhc-cnl.ca/.The Federal Housing Advocate monitors the implementation of the government’s housing policy and its progress in meeting goals and timelines set out in the NHS. On February 4, 2022, the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion announced that Marie-Josée Houle will be Canada’s first Federal Housing Advocate for a 3-year term.The NHS Act provides important opportunities for persons experiencing housing needs or homelessness and communities affected by systemic housing issues to have their voices heard through the Federal Housing Advocate, the National Housing Council. Our government is committed to working in collaboration with the National Housing Council and the Federal Housing Advocate to ensure the right to a safe and affordable place to call home becomes a reality for all Canadians.   Rest assured our government is working to ensure that every Canadian has a safe and affordable place to call home by expanding Canada’s housing supply and continuing to advance our investments in affordable housing.
Social housing
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 16, 2023441-01415441-01415 (Justice)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCMay 3, 2023June 16, 2023April 26, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS:
  • Criminal Code of Canada sets out that everyone who willfully destroys property and computer data that causes actual danger to life guilty of an indictable offence;
  • Cable theft and vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure can prevent individuals from calling for emergency services, hurt businesses, shut down classrooms and lead to higher costs for consumers;
  • Damage to telecommunications infrastructure is far from a victimless crime and should be considered a serious offence.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to create tougher penalties on vandalism and theft of telecommunications infrastructure as their destruction poses a real and dangerous risk to public safety.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable François-Philippe ChampagneReliable telecommunications networks have never been more crucial. They support not only a wide range of economic and social activities but also other critical infrastructure sectors and government services, and they are crucial for emergency services and public safety. They are fundamental to the safety, prosperity and well-being of Canadians.  The Government of Canada is taking action to improve the reliability of telecommunications and better protect Canadians. Following the Rogers outage in July 2022, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry brought together major telecommunications companies to improve Canada’s network reliability, and as a result, a memorandum of understanding between these companies is now in place with provisions on emergency roaming, mutual assistance, and improving public awareness around telecommunications emergencies. In September 2022, the Minister announced the Telecommunications Reliability Agenda, which includes a set of actions to improve the reliability and resilience of Canada’s telecommunications networks and better protect Canadians.  As part of this work, the Minister charged the industry members of the Canadian Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee (CSTAC) with developing a set of recommendations to improve the reliability of Canada’s telecommunications networks. Similarly, the Minister requested that the industry members of the Canadian Forum for Digital Infrastructure Resilience (CFDIR)  develop a set of recommendations to improve the reliability and resilience of digital infrastructure. CSTAC and CFDIR have both submitted reports containing their recommendations to the Minister and both reports have been made public. The Government of Canada thanks the Committee members for their work and is currently reviewing the recommendations, including the recommendation from CSTAC that the government consider changes to the Criminal Code. In addition, the Government of Canada has tabled Bill C-26, an Act Respecting Cyber Security, to strengthen and modernize our telecommunications framework to keep pace with the evolving threat environment. The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Telecommunications Act to include a new objective to promote the security of the Canadian telecommunications system. Furthermore, new provisions would be added to enable the Government to, by order, mandate that telecommunications service providers take action necessary to secure Canada’s telecommunications system from the threat of interference, manipulation or disruption, including enhancing its resiliency. The CRTC is also taking action to support resilient and reliable telecommunications networks in Canada. On February 22, 2023, the CRTC announced it would begin a series of consultations to develop a regulatory framework to improve telecommunications network reliability and resiliency.  As a first step, the CRTC announced new interim requirements for notification and reporting for telecommunications providers during major service outages. The CRTC is also considering further consultations on network resiliency principles, emergency services (9-1-1), public alerting and other consumer protection measures. In relation to 9-1-1 networks, the CRTC has asked the CRTC Interconnection Steering Committee (CISC) to provide a report with recommendations to improve resiliency and reduce impacts of outages on 9-1-1 networks and the public alerting system by September 15th, 2023. The Government of Canada also recognizes that vandalism and cable theft can have a serious impact on telecommunications infrastructure and can result in significant network outages. The Criminal Code of Canada currently contains a number of offences with tough penalties, up to life imprisonment, for persons who willfully damage, destroy or commit thefts in relation to telecommunications infrastructure and equipment:   •    Section 52(1) of the Criminal Code creates the offence of sabotage. This offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment. The actions in section 52(2) include causing property to be lost, damaged or destroyed, which could include damage or destruction of telecommunication infrastructure. •    The offence of theft is set out at section 322(1) of the Criminal Code. Where the value of the theft is over $5,000, the maximum sentence is 10 years imprisonment. •    The offence of mischief at section 430(1) of the Criminal Code covers a wide range of conduct including the destruction, damage or interference with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property. This offence, when prosecuted by indictment, carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. •    Subsections 430(1.1)(a) and (b) criminalizes the destruction and alteration of computer data while subsection (c) and (d) criminalizes the obstruction, interruption or interference with the lawful use of computer data or a computer.   •    Sections 467.12 and 83.3 of the Criminal Code create offences when crimes are committed on behalf of, or under the direction of, a criminal organization or terrorist group. When an indictable offence is committed for the benefit of, at the direction of or in association with a criminal organization, the offender is libel to imprisonment for a maximum of 14 years. However, where offences are committed at the direction of, or in association with, a terrorist organization, the maximum penalty is imprisonment for life, pursuant to section 83.2.Canadians depend on telecommunications services in all aspects of their lives, and the security and reliability of networks has never been more crucial. The Government of Canada will continue to take action to strengthen and protect Canada’s telecommunications networks.
Telecommunications equipmentTheft of telecommunication serviceVandalism
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01708441-01708 (Justice)RandyHobackPrince AlbertConservativeSKOctober 3, 2023November 20, 2023May 18, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA:Whereas: There are serious concerns regarding the federal government's medical assistance in dying (MAID) legislation;The heads of Psychiatry of all of Canada's 17 medical schools have called for a delay to this legislation; andThe federal government has failed to live up to its promise to fund a Canada Mental Health Transfer, leaving Canadians struggling with mental illness behind.Therefore: We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to delay its expansion of medial assistance in dying (MAID).
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandThe Government of Canada recognizes that medical assistance in dying (MAID) is a deeply personal choice and remains committed to supporting eligible individuals in having their MAID request considered in a fair, safe and consistent manner, while supporting efforts to protect those who may be vulnerable.Former Bill C-7, which received Royal Assent on March 17, 2021, included a sunset clause excluding persons with a mental illness as a sole underlying medical condition from seeking MAID until March 17, 2023. On February 2, 2023, the Government of Canada introduced legislation, Bill C-39, to extend – by a year – the exclusion of eligibility for MAID where a person's sole underlying medical condition is a mental illness, until March 17, 2024. Bill C-39 received Royal Assent on March 9, 2023, to allow time for broader dissemination of key resources and tools to support clinicians in administering MAID for complex cases, including for mental illness as a sole underlying medical condition.The Government of Canada, in collaboration with experts and provinces and territories, has supported a range of initiatives guided by recommendations from the Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness and the Special Joint Committee on MAID. This has included development of a model MAID Practice Standard, as well as an Advice for the Profession document, designed by a group of experts for use by regulatory bodies and clinicians. The Practice Standard is designed for use by regulatory bodies and clinicians in addressing complex requests for MAID, including where mental illness is involved.In addition, on September 13, 2023, the Government of Canada welcomed the release of the Canadian MAID Curriculum developed by the Canadian Association of MAID Assessors and Providers. This Curriculum is the first nationally accredited bilingual MAID education program available to licensed physicians and nurse practitioners and consists of seven modules addressing various topics related to the assessment of provision of MAID, including mental disorders and other complex chronic conditions. The goal of this program is to help achieve a safe and consistent approach to care across the country.Other activities have included:
  • regulatory amendments to the federal MAID monitoring system to enhance data collection and enrich research and analysis and reporting back to Canadians (enacted January 1, 2023, with new data to be reported in 2024);
  • funding a Knowledge Exchange Workshop (June 2023) that included over 40 MAID practitioners, as well as psychiatrists, from across Canada to discuss roles and contributions to the proper assessment and management of MAID where mental disorders are involved, and support local training related to MAID for mental disorders; and,
  • engaging with Indigenous Peoples through both Indigenous- and government-led activities.
Working to improve access to health care services, including mental health services, remains a priority for the Government of Canada.The Government of Canada is investing close to $200 billion to support provinces and territories to strengthen Canada’s universal public health system. The Government continues to work closely with provinces and territories on our shared health priorities, including:
  • access to family health services, including in rural and remote areas;
  • supported health workers and reducing backlogs;
  • access to mental health and substance use services; and,
  • modernized health systems.
These investments, on top of already significant funding, will further help provide Canadians with health care that includes access to timely, equitable and quality mental health, substance use and addictions services to support their well-being.As part of the investments, $25 billion over ten years is being provided by the Government of Canada to provinces and territories to support shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements. These bilateral agreements will also include the remaining years of funding from the Government’s previous investment in 2017 of $5 billion over ten years to improve access to mental health and substance use services for Canadians.The Government of Canada recognizes that provinces and territories have their own unique circumstances. As such, the bilateral agreements are intended to be flexible so that provinces and territories can address the unique needs of their populations and geography. As part of these agreements, provincial and territorial governments are asked to develop action plans that will describe how funds will be spent (incremental to existing spending) and how progress will be measured. All action plans will include a description of how funds will be used to support better access to mental health services. As there is no health without mental health, integrated provincial and territorial investments in other priority areas, including family health teams, the health workforce, and data and digital tools, will also help to meet the health and mental health needs of Canadians.In addition, through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, older adults, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, Black and other racialized Canadians. The Government is also providing $50 million to support projects that address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma in health care workers, front-line and other essential workers and others affected by the pandemic.Through the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), the Government of Canada is investing $39 million from 2019-2028 to address multiple risk and protective factors to promote mental health for children, youth, young adults, and caregivers. The MHP-IF aims to improve mental health for individuals and communities where interventions are delivered and to reduce systemic barriers for population mental health in Canada. Target populations include First Nations, Inuit, Métis, newcomers, 2SLGBTQI+, and other groups experiencing socio-economic risk factors.Budget 2023 committed $158.4 million over three years to support the implementation and operation of 988. The introduction of 988 will provide people across Canada with easy-to-remember access to immediate and safe support for suicide prevention and emotional distress. The creation of the 988 service in Canada builds on existing investments received through Budget 2019 for the Pan-Canadian Suicide Prevention Service, where PHAC received $25 million over five years, with $4.2 million per year ongoing. With this funding, the Centre for Addition and Mental Health (CAMH) currently operates Talk Suicide Canada. Talk Suicide Canada provides people across Canada with suicide prevention crisis support from trained responders via phone (24/7) at 1-833-456-4566 and text (evenings) to 45645. Residents of Québec can also call 1-866-277-3553, text 535353 or visit suicide.ca for support by text and online chat.Mental health remains a priority for the Government, and we will continue to invest in it and work with Provinces, Territories, and key stakeholders to support the needs of individuals and communities across the country, now and in the future.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01866441-01866 (Health)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCNovember 2, 2023December 12, 2023May 18, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:Over 29,000 Canadians have died due to apparent opioid toxicity between January 2016 and December 2021. Those who have died as a result of the preventable drug toxicity crisis were loved and valued citizens of this country: our children, siblings, spouses, parents, family members, clients, friends; andCanada's current drug policies have proven to be ineffective in the prevention of substance use and exacerbate substance use harms and risks. The "war on drugs" has resulted in widespread stigma towards those who use controlled substances. The "war on drugs" has allowed organized crime to be the sole provider of most controlled substances. Problematic substance use is a health issue and that cannot be resolved through criminalizing personal possession and consumption. Decriminalization of personal possession is associated with significantly reducing drug toxicity deaths in the countries that have adopted progressive drug policy reforms.Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Reform drug policy to decriminalize simple possession of drugs listed in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;2. Provide a path for expungement of conviction records for those convicted of simple possession; and3. With urgency, implement a health-based National Strategy for providing access to a regulated safer supply of drugs and expand trauma-informed treatment, recovery, and harm reduction services, and public education and awareness campaigns throughout Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.The Government continues to deliver on its promise to work toward removing the stigma associated with convictions for simple possession of drugs.Expungement is intended for cases where the criminalization of an activity constitutes a historical injustice because, among other things, were it to occur today, it would be inconsistent with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Expungement was not intended to address changing societal norms, such as the legalization of cannabis or health and social issues such as the ongoing opioid crisis.However, originally introduced in Parliament on December 7, 2021, Bill C-5, an Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), was amended in September 2022 to address concerns about the ongoing stigma associated with a record of convictions for simple possession of drugs. It now specifies that past convictions under section 4(1) of the CDSA for possession of controlled drugs must be kept separate and apart from other criminal convictions within two years of the Bill’s coming into force. For convictions after the coming into force, the record of conviction must be kept separate and apart from other criminal convictions two years following sentence completion. This amendment is consistent with the underlying objective of the Bill to address the negative consequences associated with simple possession. The amendment acknowledges the calls from public health organizations and those who work with individuals with addictions. It helps address barriers to successful reintegration into society and also helps address a contributing cause of the ongoing opioid crisis, namely the stigmatization of people who use drugs. Bill C-5 received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022.Criminal records have a lasting impact on the ability of rehabilitated individuals to successfully reintegrate into society after overcoming personal challenges in their lives. Treating simple possession of drugs as a health and social issue means eliminating the stigma associated with convictions for simple possession.Public Safety Canada continues to work with other departments, including Health Canada and the Department of Justice, to support the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy: Overview - Canada.ca, and address the national drug crisis as part of its mandate to keep cities and communities safe.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James Maloney
  1. Bill C-5, An Act to Amend the Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, received Royal Assent and came into force on November 17, 2022. The Bill aims to ensure that responses to criminal offences are fair and effective, while ensuring that public safety is maintained. The amendments to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) reinforce the Government’s commitment to address the ongoing opioid crisis by providing space to treat substance use as a health issue, rather than as a criminal one. The law now requires police and prosecutors to consider options such as issuing a warning, or divert people to treatment programs or other supportive services instead of proceeding with charges or prosecuting for simple drug possession, and enacts for the first time in the CDSA a declaration of principles to guide them in exercising discretion.
  2. Bill C-5 further addresses the stigma associated with having a criminal record by: (1) limiting the kind of information that may be kept in the police record of warning or referrals and the use that can be made of such records, as well as to whom these records may be disclosed; and, (2) providing that past and future records of convictions for this offence be kept separate and apart from other records of convictions after a certain period of time.
  3. The 2018 Expungement of Historically Unjust Convictions Act provides that the Governor in Council may list an offence as eligible for expungement if the activity no longer constitutes an offence, and the criminalization of the activity was a historical injustice. Bill C-5 did not repeal the offence of simple drug possession.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Darren FisherThe overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. While there are a number of complex factors that contribute to the high rates of overdose that we are seeing today, a major driver is the increasingly toxic and unpredictable illegal drug supply, where fentanyl remains widespread and we have observed the rise or emergence of other substances, including stronger opioids, stimulants, and sedatives. In 2022, approximately four out of every five opioid-related overdose death involved fentanyl. The cost of substance use-related harms is not limited to the loss of lives alone and, more broadly, impacts health, social well-being, and public safety. The Government of Canada takes this crisis very seriously and is committed to working together with all levels of government, Indigenous Peoples and communities, partners from law enforcement, criminal justice, health and social systems, and people with lived and living experience and other key stakeholders, to take urgent action and leverage every available tool to save lives and work towards an end to this national public health crisis.Our government is committed to continued action using the broad range of powers at its disposal and to take steps to end overdose deaths and substance-use related harms. Canada’s approach to addressing the overdose crisis and substance use-related harms is comprehensive, equitable, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our renewed federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The renewed CDSS outlines the Government of Canada’s updated plan to address the overdose crisis, and other substance use-related harms in Canada.Through the renewed CDSS, Canada is taking a holistic approach to addressing substance use and related harms, centered on promoting public health and protecting public safety. This whole-of-government initiative includes timely access to a full range of strategies to help people access the prevention, harm reduction, treatment, or recovery services and supports they need, when and where they need them.The renewed CDSS uses an integrated approach that brings together prevention and education, substance use services and supports, evidence, and substance controls. New investments include supporting a wide range of activities, such as: community-based supports; streamlining authorizations for supervised consumption sites and drug checking services;   vital data collection on substance-related harms and lab-based analysis of the illegal drug supply; an overdose monitoring platform for law enforcement and other first responders; and further action with our partners to disrupt illegal drug production and trafficking and stem the global flow of these devastating substances. By using a wide-range of tools, we have the best opportunity to end this crisis, protect communities and save lives.Since 2017, the federal government has made commitments of more than $1 billion and has taken significant action to address the toxic drug and overdose crisis and substance use-related harms. This includes a Budget 2023 commitment of $359.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $5.7 million ongoing, to support the renewed CDSS, which will continue to guide the government’s work to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians by:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
These investments have made a difference in reducing overdose deaths and harms. For example, since 2017 through the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP), Health Canada has provided over $500 million to support more than 380 community-based projects focused on innovative treatment, harm reduction, prevention and stigma reduction activities. More than $26 million of this funding was dedicated to expanding Naloxone awareness, training and distribution across Canada. As of May 2023, these projects contributed to more than 1.5M Canadians being trained on how to respond to an overdose, and more than 69,000 nasal naloxone kits being distributed across the country.We also invested $22.8 million in public education through national and targeted advertising, partnerships and experiential marketing on the risks of opioids, overdose awareness, harm reduction and stigma awareness and reduction. In addition, the Government of Canada is supporting policies and approaches to build the evidence around innovative care practices, including services that prescribe pharmaceutical-grade medications as an alternative to the highly toxic illegal drug supply for people at high risk of overdose – a practice often referred to as safer supply. As of November 2023, Health Canada has supported 31 safer supply pilot projects across Canada through SUAP, representing total funding commitments of over $102 million. This includes supporting a range of service delivery projects in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, as well as research/knowledge transfer and exchange projects to help share knowledge amongst stakeholders.These investments have also improved access to treatment. For example, provinces and territories have used federal investments provided through Budget 2018 for the Emergency Treatment Fund to expand existing treatment approaches, such as services to support youth with substance use disorder, withdrawal management services appropriate for people who use methamphetamine, Rapid Access Addictions Medicine clinics, access to opioid dependence treatments, and culturally-appropriate care for Indigenous communities. Funds have also been used to implement innovative approaches to treatment, including ‘wrap-around’ care and the development of telehealth infrastructure to connect clients in remote and rural settings.In addition to these investments, the Government of Canada has supported the expansion of supervised consumption services (SCS) across Canada and also proactively issued exemptions that allow provinces and territories to establish new temporary Urgent Public Health Need Sites – also known as overdose prevention sites – within existing shelters or other temporary sites, as needed. Since 2016, the number of SCS has grown from one to 40. From October 2017 to July 2023, they have received over 4.3 million visits, responded to over 51,000 overdoses, and made over 264,000 referrals to health and social services [as of October 25, 2023].Federal funds are enabling new checking technologies to be used at SCS and other associated services to provide people who use drugs and health workers with information on the contents of toxic street drugs, including whether they contain deadly fentanyl, benzodiazepines or other toxic substances. This gives people who use drugs the opportunity to make informed decisions that may reduce their risk of overdose. As of November 2023, there are 30 federally authorized SCS that are authorized to conduct drug checking in Canada, and 5 federally authorized sites that offer stand-alone drug checking services. In addition, the Government of Canada held a Drug Checking Technology Challenge (October 2018 to July 2021), that provided a total of $1,724,500 million to nine participants to catalyze innovation in drug checking technologies. Through the renewed CDSS, we will streamline authorizations for SCS, urgent public health need sites and drug checking services with clear public health and public safety requirements for organizations seeking to provide these evidence-based life saving services to Canadians.We have also made a number of regulatory changes at the federal level to help improve access to medications used in drug treatment programs, including:
  • issuing a class exemption (an exemption authorized to a group of people, such as pharmacists, to conduct specific activities with controlled substances) to make it easier for patients to access the medications they need;
  • approving injectable hydromorphone as a treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder;
  • approving injectable diacetylmorphine as a new treatment option for patients with severe opioid use disorder, as well as facilitating the prescribing and dispensing of methadone and diacetylmorphine; and,
  • authorizing nurses who provide health care services at a community health facility to conduct certain activities with controlled substances.
We will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to respond to this crisis and to keep communities safe. Our government works closely with domestic and international partners to address the toxic illegal drug supply that is driving overdose harms and deaths. We continue to equip border agents with the tools necessary to intercept controlled substances. For example, we have made it harder to access chemicals used to make fentanyl by scheduling them under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and have also amended legislation to allow border officers to open mail of any weight, in order to stop drugs like fentanyl and carfentanil from entering Canada illegally through the mail system. Our government also works with private sector partners to address money laundering of the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking in an effort to dismantle the organized crime groups involved in the supply of these toxic illegal drugs.The Government of Canada continues to lead efforts to facilitate opportunities for collaboration between jurisdictions, health providers, researchers, people with lived and living experience, community-based organizations, and other partners and stakeholders, to reduce the harms associated with substance use and support efforts to provide a full range of culturally appropriate, evidence-based, and trauma-informed health and social services and supports to meet the diverse needs of people who use drugs.The Government of Canada is also working closely with provinces and territories to change the way our healthcare system delivers mental health and substance use services to Canadians. On February 7, 2023, the Government of Canada announced it will increase health funding to provinces and territories by nearly $200 billion over 10 years, in order to improve Canada’s health care system. This investment includes $25 billion for shared health priorities, including increasing access to mental health and substance use services and supports. These commitments are in addition to existing bilateral agreements with provinces and territories for health priorities, including mental health and substance use, that were put in place in 2017. These investments will set the foundation for long-term, integrated and sustained health care system change that builds on existing, targeted actions to address mental health and substance use challenges.We have also established federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses, the FPT Committee on Substance Use (formerly Problematic Substance Use & Harms), and the FPT Assistant Deputy Minister Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use, to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. In addition, discussions are held with provinces and territories at the Deputy Minister and Ministerial level through meetings of the Conference of Deputy Ministers of Health and the Federal, Provincial, Territorial Health Minister’s Meetings.To inform the federal approach, our government also regularly consults with stakeholders and has convened several expert advisory groups, including people directly impacted by substance use. Health Canada established the People with Lived and Living Experience Council, the Expert Advisory Group on Safer Supply and the Expert Task Force on Substance Use as part of this engagement strategy. We recognize that social determinants of health, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, can place individuals at an increased risk of substance use harms and that the approaches to reduce these harms require sustained efforts and supports from diverse systems. We continue to work closely across federal departments so that federal actions on mental health and addictions, homelessness and housing, poverty, and reconciliation are coordinated and synergistic. We are also committed to engaging collaboratively with provinces and territories, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and other stakeholders to advance whole-of-society approaches to these issues.With respect to safer supply, a number of researchers in academic institutions across Canada are studying this emerging approach, contributing to the evidence base that can inform decision-making at local, provincial and federal levels. Safer supply builds on the evidence from medication-assisted approaches to the treatment of substance use disorder, with safer supply services having a number of unique goals and approaches that need to be assessed and evaluated on their own merits.The evidence base around safer supply is still developing, but is growing. Existing studies and evaluations of safer supply programs are showing some promising early outcomes, including:
  • reduced emergency department visits and hospitalizations; and,
  • client reports of reductions in overdoses and illegal drug use, reduced engagement in criminalized activities, access to health and social services, improved trust in primary care providers among clients who face barriers to care, and other quality of life improvements.
Health Canada is supporting several studies of safer supply. This includes a preliminary assessment of safer supply pilot projects in Ontario, British Columbia and New Brunswick. The federal government, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), is also supporting a study being conducted by a research team from the Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse. This four-year evaluation research project focuses on program implementation and the short-term health outcomes of 11 of the government funded safer supply pilot projects. The final results of this study are expected in 2025. Additionally, CIHR has awarded $2 million to the University of Victoria to support a four-year study evaluating the safer supply initiatives in British Columbia, in partnership with Indigenous leaders, Elders and system partners. We will continue to monitor outcomes of safer supply, so that our response to the overdose crisis is evidence-based and focused on saving lives. Our government is committed to working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and toward supportive and trusted relationships in health services and social supports, when needed. For example, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was passed into law in May 2017, providing some legal protection from simple drug possession charges for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose. Furthermore, Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022, made legislative amendments to the Criminal Code and to the CDSA. Among other measures, the amendments require police and prosecutors to consider alternative measures – including diverting individuals to treatment programs – instead of laying a criminal charge or prosecuting individuals for personal drug possession. These amendments also repealed mandatory minimum penalties for certain offences in the CDSA to reflect the Government’s public-health focused approach to substance use. These measures are consistent with the August 2020 Guidelines issued by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, directing prosecutors to consider alternatives to prosecution for the personal possession of drugs, except in the most serious cases where public safety concerns arise.In addition, in May 2022, at the request of the province of British Columbia, a time-limited exemption was granted under the CDSA so that adults 18 years of age and older in the province are not subject to criminal charges for the personal possession of small amounts of certain illegal drugs. Instead, where appropriate, individuals may be provided with information regarding local health and social services. Upon request, they can also receive assistance to connect with those services. This exemption, which is in effect from January 31, 2023, to January 31, 2026, is part of a much broader strategy British Columbia and this Government are taking to help people who use drugs access supports and services, rather than face criminal charges. This time-limited exemption is being supported by rigorous monitoring and a third-party evaluation to gather evidence and data on its impacts and outcomes and inform implementation.Canada recognizes that stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help reduce stigma in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The items above are some examples of concrete actions taken by the federal government to address the overdose crisis. Please visit the following website for a comprehensive list of all the actions taken to date.The Government of Canada will continue working with our partners and stakeholders to implement the renewed CDSS and will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and advancing work on the development of standards for mental health and substance use health services. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abusePublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01527441-01527 (Animals)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONJune 9, 2023August 16, 2023May 18, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • On September 28, 2022, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced a new policy that prohibits the entry of commercial dogs, which includes adoption and fostering, from specific countries who are deemed at high-risk for rabies;
  • There are over 100 countries listed where these dogs are prohibited from entering Canada, including Ukraine and Afghanistan, where humanitarian crises are occurring, and the Philippines and China where rescuers are saving animals from the dog meat trade;
  • Animal advocacy groups have said that rescues were not consulted on this plan and it came as a shock. International rescue organizations have had to shut down their operations, unnecessarily causing dogs to suffer and die. Public consultation and stakeholder engagement is needed;
  • Other measures to ensure public safety such as adequate vaccination, blood antibody testing, and quarantine have been proven to be effective. Rabies is 100% preventable thanks to appropriate vaccines that are available;
  • No other western jurisdictions have banned international dog rescue entirely;
  • At a minimum, Canada's policy should match the United States' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regulations on the entry of dogs, which allows dogs into the country with appropriate safeguards;
  • Many Canadians adopt and rescue dogs from overseas. This change could lead to more dogs in shelters or on the street globally and could exacerbate Canada's puppy mill crisis; and
  • Keeping Canadians and their pets safe, while also working with rescues and advocates is important.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to work with affected dog rescues and animal rights advocates to ensure government policy on dog importations keeps Canadians safe, without increasing the number of animals in shelters or on the streets globally.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam Van KoeverdenThe Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for regulating the importation of animals into Canada to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases, such as rabies caused by canine-variant viruses (dog rabies), that have the potential to harm animal and human health.We love all dogs and to protect them as well as Canadians from dog rabies, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) implemented a measure to prohibit the entry of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies. Since September 28, 2022, the entry of all commercial dogs into Canada from countries considered to be high risk for dog rabies is no longer permitted, regardless of their age. Commercial dogs can include (but are not limited to) dogs for resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition, research and other purposes.This measure was implemented in response to the importation of dogs infected with dog rabies, and resulting calls from federal and provincial public health officials to strengthen importation measures in Canada for dogs from countries at high risk for dog rabies. The CFIA consulted with public health authorities regarding the human health risk and it was determined to be significant enough to warrant the implementation of a measure that helps mitigate the introduction and spread of dog rabies to Canada.While rabies exists in some wild species, Canada does not have dog rabies, a virus that can be transmitted between mammals, including humans. Rabies is 99% fatal to animals and humans once they start to show signs or symptoms. Our government aims to preserve this status.Dog rabies can be introduced into Canada through imports that come from over 100 countries where this deadly disease is present. The importation of even one rabid dog could result in transmission to Canadian humans, pets and wildlife. In past years, commercial dog imports have increased significantly and shipments of dogs arriving from countries with widespread dog rabies pose a high risk of introducing this disease in Canada.It is very difficult to verify if an imported dog has been infected with dog rabies or protected from this disease prior to importation due to the long incubation period of the disease as well as the limits of laboratory testing.The incubation period for rabies is highly variable and depends on many factors. The majority of infected animals will develop the disease within six months of exposure. The infective period can start before the appearance of clinical signs (e.g., dogs can shed the virus 10 days before the onset of the disease) and last until death. As such, a dog may unknowingly be imported with the disease, even if it was vaccinated prior to importation. Imported dogs cannot be tested for rabies as the internationally accepted standard for testing for rabies involves sampling brain tissue, which requires that the animal be euthanized.Vaccinating dogs for rabies prior to importation is important, but it does not ensure that the animal is not infected on arrival. To be effective, rabies vaccines must be manufactured in accordance with standards established by the World Organisation for Animal Health, stored at the correct temperature and administered to healthy animals according to established protocols (e.g., given when the animal is old enough). Should any of these steps fail, vaccination may not be fully protective. It is difficult to verify that these parameters have been adhered to prior to the importation of dogs. Vaccinating a dog after it is exposed to rabies, does not prevent the disease.When used in combination with other measures, the rabies titre test (also called rabies neutralizing antibody titre) is a useful tool to help mitigate the risk of importing a dog with rabies. However, in the absence of an appropriate waiting period after the test is performed, the results cannot be used to determine whether a dog has been adequately vaccinated and/or protected against rabies. Many countries require a waiting period of at least three months (and even up to six months) after the test before any dog can be imported to allow time for clinical signs to develop in case the animal had been infected. Lastly, it is important to remember that rabies titre testing is not a diagnostic or screening test for rabies exposure; rather, it helps to evaluate whether or not the animal’s immune system has mounted an acceptable response to vaccination.While post-import quarantines can also be a useful tool in certain situations and for certain diseases, the internationally accepted incubation period for rabies in dogs is six months, but can be longer in some cases; therefore, a prolonged quarantine period after importation would be required to mitigate the risks. As such, quarantining imported dogs from countries at high risk for dog rabies creates an opportunity for a rabid dog to be brought to Canada, potentially exposing people (e.g., airline workers, caregivers, etc.) to a serious and fatal disease.Additionally, because this is a zoonotic disease, an approved and appropriate quarantine facility would be required, the handling of animals in a quarantine facility would be limited, trained and verified caregivers would be required to wear personal protective equipment and contact with other animals would not be permitted. A prolonged quarantine period would be logistically challenging, expensive for the importer and detrimental to the welfare of the animal.The CFIA collaborated with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to classify countries according to risk of dog rabies. The methodology used by the CDC was evaluated by the CFIA and found to be scientifically sound and appropriate to be used by the CFIA for the implementation of this measure. While Canada and the U.S. have identified the same countries to be of high risk for dog rabies, the two countries have different legal authorities and, therefore, have implemented different import measures.The CFIA will continue to explore options for long-term solutions for dog imports that will allow the CFIA to address evolving disease risks in a sustainable, risk-based manner, using a One Health approach that is consistent with international standards. The CFIA is committed to continuing to develop approaches that keep the Canadian public and animals safe, and prevent the introduction and spread of diseases into Canada. We are committed to minimizing the risk of dog rabies to animals and people in Canada to ensure their health and safety.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for establishing the policies regarding the importation of live animals, including dogs into Canada under the Health of Animals Act and Health of Animals Regulations. The CBSA administers and enforces these policies at the border.On September 28, 2022, the CFIA implemented Notice to industry: New measure prohibiting the entry of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies, the new import restrictions banning all commercial dogs from high risk rabies countries (approximately 112 countries) from being imported into Canada. These restrictions are in effect at international airports in Canada.The CBSA administers these requirements on behalf of CFIA as part of our overall enforcement mandate under the Canada Border Services Agency act.
DogsImports
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01543441-01543 (Environment)YvanBakerEtobicoke CentreLiberalONJune 13, 2023August 16, 2023June 7, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:Our economic and financial systems depend on a stable climate and the Bank of Canada recognizes that climate change poses significant risks to the financial system and the economy;Continued financial support for emissions-intensive activities increases future climate-related risks to the stability financial systems and the longterm interests of Canadians;There has been no significant legislative action on the matter in Canada despite international developments legislating the climate and finance nexus which risks leaving Canada behind; andBill S-243, An Act to enact the Climate-Aligned Finance Act was drafted based on consultation with national and international experts so as to enable Canada to leapfrog from laggard to leader on aligning financial flows with climate commitments.Therefore, we, the undersigned, Citizens and Residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to enact the principal concepts of the Climate-Aligned Finance Act which would:1) Establish a duty for directors and officers of federal financial institutions to align with climate commitments;2) Align purposes of crown corporations and departments, including market oversight by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, with climate commitments;3) Require the development of action plans, targets and progress reports on meeting climate commitments through annual reporting requirements; 4) Ensure climate expertise on certain boards of directors and avoid conflicts of interest;5) Make capital adequacy requirements proportional to microprudential and macroprudential climate risks generated by financial institutions; 6) Require a government action plan to align all financial products with climate commitments; and7) Mandate timely public review processes on implementation progress to ensure iterative learning.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about climate-aligned finance in Canada.Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy and net-zero emissions by 2050 will require substantial investment beyond the public sector. Private sector capital and expertise will be needed to meet Canada’s climate objectives and create a climate-resilient economy.Developing sustainable finance in Canada will promote the long-term growth and stability of Canada’s financial system. It will also create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and investors.In May 2021, the Government of Canada launched the Sustainable Finance Action Council (SFAC) to help lead the Canadian financial sector towards integrating sustainable finance into standard industry practice. The SFAC is chaired by Kathy Bardswick and comprises 25 Canadian deposit-taking institutions, insurance companies and pensions funds, with combined assets of over $10 trillion.The SFAC’s Terms of Reference call on it to provide financial sector input to the Government of Canada on the development of foundational market infrastructure, including enhancing climate disclosure, defining green and transition investment, and improving climate data and analytics. More recently, in Budget 2022, the Government of Canada asked the SFAC to develop and report on strategies for aligning private sector capital with the net-zero transition, with support from the Canadian Climate Institute and in collaboration with the Net-Zero Advisory Body.The council’s early emphasis has been on enhancing climate-related financial disclosures in Canada’s private sector. The SFAC has also worked on taxonomy, and, late in 2022, submitted the Taxonomy Roadmap Report to the Government of Canada, which sets out its advice on the design, governance, and implementation of a Canadian green and transition finance taxonomy. The Government of Canada is studying the Report’s advice, and there will be continued collaboration with the SFAC and other financial sector leaders on taxonomy.The Government of Canada is making important progress in meeting its Budget 2022 commitment to move towards mandatory reporting of climate-related financial risks across a broad spectrum of the Canadian economy, based on the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations.
Climate change and global warmingFinancial institutions
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 12, 2024441-02147441-02147 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 12, 2024October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • Women's shelters are sadly seeing increased demand;
  • The high cost of living and the housing crisis have made it harder for women and children fleeing a violent home to find a safe place to live; and
  • At a time when this Liberal government is dramatically increasing spending on bureaucracy and consultants, they are cutting $145 million of funding for women's shelters.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to restore funding for women's shelters.
SheltersWomen
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 29, 2023441-01754441-01754 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 16, 2023November 29, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • Women's shelters are sadly seeing increased demand;
  • The high cost of living and the housing crisis have made it harder for women and children fleeing a violent home to find a safe place to live; and
  • At a time when this Liberal government is dramatically increasing spending on bureaucracy and consultants, they are cutting $145 million of funding for women's shelters.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to restore funding for women's shelters.
Response by the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their concerns about the right to a safe and affordable place to call home. Providing a safe and secure space for persons fleeing domestic violence is a priority for our government. Launched in 2017, the National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10-year, more than $82-billion plan giving more people living in Canada a place to call home. The NHS consists of complementary programs and initiatives that aim to address needs across the housing continuum while prioritizing populations most in need, including women and their children. The federal government aims to put 33% of the strategy’s investments, with a minimum of 25%, toward serving the unique needs of women and their children.NHS programs and initiatives support the creation of shelters, such as the $13.2 billion National Housing Co-Investment Fund which aims to create 2,000 new shelter spaces and repair 2,000 shelters for survivors of family violence. As of June 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed to creating 1,241 new shelter spaces or transitional housing units available for survivors of gender-based violence, and to repair/renew a further 302 units.  The Government recognizes that Indigenous women and children face unique challenges and barriers to housing. For those who experience violence, a shelter is often a first step to rebuilding their lives and protecting them from further violence. The NHS includes programming and funding exclusively for shelters in Indigenous communities and in the North. This includes $420 million through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative to build a minimum of 38 shelters and 50 new transitional homes for Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping gender-based violence. As of June 30, 2023, the Government of Canada has committed $76 million toward the construction of 11 shelters and 18 transitional homes through this program.In May 2020, our government committed $44.8 million to build a total of 12 new shelters across Canada for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people escaping family violence. These Indigenous-led shelters will provide vital refuge and culturally appropriate critical supports and services to help survivors of family violence recover from the trauma of their experiences, access support programming and create a stable environment where they can begin to regain an independent life. This is also a crucial element of the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, the Government of Canada’s response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and an important contribution to the National Action Plan to end violence against Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. 
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerIn response to unprecedented challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada provided approximately $300 million in emergency funding to over 1,400 organizations such as women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and other organizations that provide critical supports and services to those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV), including intimate partner violence.Along with other temporary COVID-19 emergency measures introduced by the federal government since 2020, this measure is coming to an end.  Despite this, the Government of Canada continues to support critical services for individuals experiencing gender-based violence. Most notably, on November 9, 2022, Women and Gender Equality Canada launched a historic National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This provides an investment of $539.3 million over five years, committed in Budget 2022, which is being implemented through bilateral agreements with the provinces and territories to support their efforts to address and end gender-based violence. These agreements, along with the respective provincial/territorial implementation plans, will be posted on Women and Gender Equality Canada’s website. This historic funding builds on additional Government of Canada investments to address gender-based violence since 2021-22:  
SheltersWomen
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 12, 2024441-02141441-02141 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 12, 2024October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02094441-02094 (Employment and labour)WarrenSteinleyRegina—LewvanConservativeSKFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024November 21, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01944441-01944 (Foreign affairs)GeorgeChahalCalgary SkyviewLiberalABNovember 22, 2023January 29, 2024November 20, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:The people of Pakistan and Pakistani Canadians are becoming increasingly concerned about reports of political turmoil and uncertainty in that country following the unjust removal of a democratically elected government, and the subsequent arrest of Imran Khan;There have been targeted arrests of members of the largest opposition party: PTI; andReports of abductions, enforced disappearances, and torture target political activists, their families, and other state opposition.Therefore: we, the undersigned citizens of Canada:Call upon the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development, and Subcommittee on International Human Rights immediately begin a study of human rights violations, particularly towards minorities, and human rights groups in Pakistan;Call on the Government of Canada to implement Magnitsky Sanctions on corrupt Pakistani military officials, and ban Pakistani military officials who have been involved in human rights. violations from travelling to or living in Canada;Call on the Government of Canada to leverage its influence in the IMF to tie new and existing loans to Pakistan on the condition that free and fair elections are held;Call on the Government of Canada to implement a foreign agents registry to protect Canadians from Pakistani foreign interference; andThat all these measures continue until the respect for democratic institutions and human rights are restored.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada and Pakistan have a multifaceted bilateral relationship, which dates back to 1947, and is underpinned by extensive people-to-people ties.The Government of Canada is aware of the latest political developments in Pakistan and continues to monitor the situation, including in the lead up to general elections announced for February 8, 2023. Canada supports free, fair, and inclusive electoral process and condemns any use of violence for political goals.The promotion and protection of human rights, democratic values, media freedom, and respect for the rule of law are integral elements of Canada’s foreign policy and are key priorities for Canada’s engagement in Pakistan. Canada considers diplomacy, advocacy and programming activities to be among the most effective ways of promoting these priorities in Pakistan. Global Affairs Canada officials regularly raise these topics with senior Pakistani government officials, the official opposition, and local and religious leaders. Global Affairs Canada is also funding inclusive governance projects in Pakistan with an investment of $21 million over five years, which supports women’s political participation and leadership, works to improve the accountability of democratic processes, and to increase the capacity of government institutions. Canada also supports civil society in Pakistan through its Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to fund locally implemented projects focused on advancing inclusive governance, human rights and the rule of law.Regarding Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Government of Canada is actively following the IMF’s ongoing dialogue with the Government of Pakistan, including on fiscal reform to strengthen economic stability. Canada is a member of the IMF and shares the IMF’s priorities of inclusive growth, gender equality, strong governance and public institutions, maintaining openness, and using multilateralism to address global challenges for the benefit of all.On the issue of sanctions, Canada has established a rigorous process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption, or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions, while also considering the broader political and international contexts when determining whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox constitute the most effective and appropriate response.The Government of Canada is also aware of public interest related to a foreign agent registry and continues to look for innovative ways to enhance the measures Canada has in place to counter foreign interference.Canada will continue to be a firm and consistent voice, speaking up for the protection and promotion of human rights and the advancement of democratic values and principles.
Civil and human rightsDemocracyEconomic sanctionsForeign policyPakistan
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 19, 2024441-02242441-02242 (Employment and labour)GeorgeChahalCalgary SkyviewLiberalABMarch 19, 2024February 27, 2024Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Safety is the primary concern for every transport driver across Canada;These professional drivers navigate Canada's road network 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, serving as the backbone of our economy; andOwner/operators in Canada's Transportation industry find themselves at the mercy of unscrupulous operations across the country. Transport contracts are traded by operations that offer no value to consumers before ultimately being assigned to owner/operators.Therefore: We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to study, amend, and create legislation that will create safer driving, working, and long-term economic conditions for transport drivers; We call upon the Government of Canada to work with all provinces and territories to facilitate the establishment of a Transport Driver Bill of Rights, which would include:
  • The establishment of transparent contracts for industry members including all transaction details;
  • Owner/operators right to access load freight rates from brokerage or contractors;
  • Establishing minimum rates per kilometer of travel with annual review processes;
  • Mandate layover, downtime, and load cancellation fees to be paid to owner/operators by the shipper or broker according to the expenses;
  • Mandate access to washrooms at any business where goods are delivered or washrooms are available to staff or patrons;
  • Determine the fines or penalties that shippers will incur for failing to firmly secure their cargo in the motor vehicle;
  • Determine the fines or penalties that shippers will incur if cargo is overweight on the axle;
  • Determine the cap on brokerage fee; and
We call upon the Government of Canada to work with provinces and territories to twin the Trans-Canada Highway and mandate rest stations (with washrooms) across the country for the safety and wellbeing of drivers.
Federal-provincial-territorial relationsTrucking and truckersWorking hours, terms and conditions
44th Parliament207Open for signatureMarch 6, 2024e-4816e-4816 (Culture and heritage)JoshLeslieKevinVuongSpadina—Fort YorkIndependentONMarch 6, 2024, at 9:57 a.m. (EDT)July 4, 2024, at 9:57 a.m. (EDT)Petition to the <Addressee type="2" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">House of Commons in Parliament assembled</Addressee>Whereas:Poutine can be found in restaurants of all sizes and genres from coast-to-coast-to-coast within Canada;No matter what gender, ethnic origin, creed, geographic region, community, culture, linguistic community, political party or ideology Canadians identify with, there are lovers of poutine in their midst;Poutine can serve as a vehicle to bridge differences between us and unite Canadians in conversation over a dish we can generally agree is delicious;Maple syrup is not a dish (but is an ingredient that can be used in gravy, or a topping in some other variations of poutine that have come to exist over the past 7 decades);Poutine was served at the March 10, 2016, state dinner when the U.S. president hosted Canada's Prime Minister for the first time in 19 years;Poutine is a quintessential Canadian comfort food that has even been integrated into large U.S. chain restaurant locations in Canada, and other U.S.-based businesses such as wholesale retailers that also serve hot food; andThere are numerous annual poutine festivals and events that serve to bring Canadians of all backgrounds together with one another.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada who also self-identify as poutine enthusiasts and/or lovers of poutine, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to ensure, through an Act of Parliament, that the dish commonly known as poutine is hereby recognized and declared to be the national dish of Canada while simultaneously honouring its origins in the Province of Quebec.Cultural symbolsFood and drink44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 22, 2024441-02271441-02271 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONMarch 22, 2024December 14, 2023Petition to the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02193441-02193 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 16, 2024March 22, 2024December 14, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence - can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;Whereas the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence - including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Whereas Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Whereas online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights;Whereas anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andWhereas online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks. 
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-02007441-02007 (Media and telecommunications)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONDecember 13, 2023January 29, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS: In 2020 the Government of Canada Launched the $3.225 billion dollar Universal Broadband Fund with a view to having 98% of Canadians connected to High Speed Internet by the year 2026, which is less than 3 years from now; and94% of Canadians have reportedly been connected to High Speed Internet. We, the undersigned residents of Georgian Bluffs and surrounding area, call upon the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry to: implement and announce a clear plan with geographic project commitments to fund the installation of fibre on roads called "the last mile" to include dead end roads such as 15 Sideroad in Shallow Lake Ontario.
Response by the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities AgencySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY DARRELL SAMSONThe Government of Canada is on track meet the national connectivity targets of providing high-speed Internet access to 98% of Canadian households by 2026 and 100% by 2030. The Governments of Canada and Ontario are working collaboratively under the $1.2 billion Canada-Ontario broadband partnership to get all Ontarian households connected to high-speed Internet. As of December 2023, 92.9% of households in Ontario have access to high-speed Internet, compared to 86.9% in 2017.In the Township of Georgian Bluffs, 61.9% of homes have access to high-speed Internet today, with 100% projected to have access by December 2025 which is the province of Ontario’s target for universal connectivity. As shown on the High-Speed Internet Projects and Availability Map, projects underway in Georgian Bluffs include two Xplore projects, an Eh!Tel Networks project as well as a Bragg Communications project.
Broadband Internet servicesRural communities
44th Parliament229Not certifiedMarch 27, 2024e-4780e-4780 (Business and trade)KevinKozakJenniferO'ConnellPickering—UxbridgeLiberalONJanuary 24, 2024, at 1:25 p.m. (EDT)March 24, 2024, at 1:25 p.m. (EDT)March 27, 2024Petition to the <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">House of Commons</Addressee>Whereas:Bill C-57 is an important update to the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement that will assist Ukraine in rebuilding after they defeat the illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress has called on the Parliament of Canada to swiftly adopt this legislation; andMisinformation regarding Canada’s carbon pricing scheme having an effect on this agreement has been widely debunked.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to re-affirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine by swiftly adopting the updated Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement.C-57, An Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and UkraineCanada-Ukraine Free Trade AgreementTrade agreementsUkraine44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02113441-02113 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024January 26, 2024PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02048441-02048 (Health)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCFebruary 1, 2024March 18, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Health Canada is proposing to significantly change natural health product (NHPs) regulations. Canadians rely on NHPS, which include basic everyday products such as supplements, toothpaste, vitamins, probiotics, and mineral SPF, as part of our proactive healthcare;
  • Without immediate action, consumer prices will rise significantly, and consumer choice will decline drastically, when inflation is at an all-time high and access to healthcare is at an all-time low;
  • Health Canada recently proposed new and significant fees to import, manufacture, and sell NHPs at the same time they are implementing new labelling laws that will force many small to medium-sized businesses to shut down;
  • Increasing fees and additional labelling does not promote safety for taking NHPs. It makes products more expensive, in which the burden of these costs will be passed down to the consumer; and
  • This overregulation will force consumers to seek out products online which could lead people purchasing non-compliant, unregulated NHPs from outside of Canada.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Health to work with the industry to embrace modern labelling and adjust Health Canada's proposed cost recovery rates to accurately reflect the size and scope of the industry; and that new regulatory changes should only be implemented once the Self-Care Framework is adjusted and backlogs are cleared, operations run efficiently, and there are policies and procedures in place to ensure the stable operations continue.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Yasir NaqviHealth Canada recognizes that natural health products (NHPs) are important to Canadians to help support and maintain their health and is committed to supporting access to natural health products that are safe and of high quality.While NHPs are generally lower risk products, that does not mean they are without risk, especially if products are adulterated, or used improperly.In 2021, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development completed an audit of Health Canada’s NHP program and found both strengths and areas for improvement. Health Canada committed to undertaking a number of initiatives to improve the oversight of these products.In an effort to make the natural health product market safer for consumers and support Canadians in making informed choices, Health Canada recently introduced two important regulatory and legislative changes:
  • In July 2022, after extensive consultation with stakeholders and taking their feedback into account, Health Canada introduced new regulatory requirements to make natural health product labels easier for Canadians to read and understand. This includes, for example, increased font size and improved colour contrast.
  • In June 2023, the Government passed legislation allowing Health Canada to take more action if a serious risk to health is identified with a natural health product. This legislation allows Health Canada to order recalls or add warnings to labels, if necessary, which the Department could not do before.
Now, Health Canada is proposing fees for industry to allow the Department to create an even safer marketplace for consumers and begin to recoup a portion of the costs of services it provides to industry. Presently, NHPs are the only line of health products where the regulatory activities are fully funded by Canadian taxpayers.Health Canada knows that many NHP companies are small businesses and is committed to supporting them. The Department is considering measures to help alleviate the impact of fees on businesses.  This includes fee reductions of 25% to 50% and a full waiver of pre-market evaluation fees for small businesses marketing their first product.Health Canada is actively reviewing thousands of comments received on its fee proposal, including those relating to the proposed fee reductions for small businesses, as part of an open and transparent consultation process with Canadians and businesses. At this time, the Department is considering how best to adjust the proposed approach to address the concerns raised prior to further engagement with stakeholders.Ultimately, this initiative is not about limiting the production of NHPs or consumers’ access to them. Rather, these efforts are about making sure the products Canadians use every day are safe, and of high quality.
Natural health productsPackaging and labelling
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02154441-02154 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKFebruary 13, 2024March 22, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intendend parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02112441-02112 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024February 6, 2024Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence - can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;Whereas the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence - including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Whereas Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Whereas online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights;Whereas anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andWhereas online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-02001441-02001 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 12, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Eritrea has been ruled by an authoritarian brutal dictator under a totalitarian system for the last 30 years with no constitution, no election, no parliament, no freedom of press and no freedom of movement and association;
  • Eritreans continue to flee indefinite military conscription, religious persecution, and political repression, causing them to seek asylum across the world;
  • Hundreds of thousands of Eritreans (about 30% of its population) have fled to escape from severe human rights violations amounting to crimes against humanity, as has been documented by the UN Commission of Inquiry on Eritrea;
  • Those who have managed to flee the country still face intimidation and extortion from the representatives and agents of the Eritrean regime in the diaspora. Their families in Eritrea are also harassed and forced to pay tens of thousands of local currencies because their children have fled;
  • Eritrean Embassies and other representations in the diaspora have been utilized, predominantly, to surveil and monitor the activities of Eritrean asylum seekers and the regime's critics, refusing consular services, controlling, indoctrinating and extorting;
  • Eritrean Embassies and other representations in the diaspora also regularly organize political community events aimed at raising funds which are siphoned off into the regime's coffers and used to empower itself, maintain its grip on power and continue to repress the Eritrean people inside the country;
  • Many diasporan Human Rights activists have started working to ensure the so-called 'community and cultural events that are organized by the Eritrean Embassies and their proxies are stopped. To this end, they have alerted home countries' pertinent orders of governments, asking them to reject requests for permits for such 'community and cultural events';
  • The Eritrean Regime has responded to such efforts by Eritrean diaspora activists by encouraging violent responses, going as far as to organize and arm its loyalists e.g., the recent violence in Tel Aviv, Israel, and the response from the Eritrean Embassy Israel;
  • The Eritrean dictator's overt alignment with Vladimir Putin and its belligerent stance against Western Democracies and the Horn of Africa countries; and
  • Canadians of Eritrean origin are deeply concerned about the regime's reach and interference in their local communities through its party cadres and agents.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to:
  • Engage Eritrean political and human rights activists and pro-democracy groups;
  • Take a leadership role among the Western allies to challenge the Eritrean Dictator's malicious conspiracy with Vladimir Putin against Western countries and his belligerence in the Horn of Africa;
  • Investigate foreign interference of Eritrea in Canada and take appropriate action (including rejection of entry visas and denial of event permits) against all front organizations, individuals, and events enabling this interference;
  • Enforce Canada's asylum laws against those who explicitly provide material and political support to the very regime they claim to have fled from as they don't qualify as genuine refugees;
  • Cancel the sponsorship application process to the Eritrean Regime loyalists including those who partook in the recent violent clashes in Tel Aviv, Israel, as they could pose a danger to the Canadian public after arrival in Canada;
  • Advocate for the release of all the imprisoned journalists, including the Swedish-Eritrean journalist Dawit Isaak, and the 11 imprisoned Eritrean Parliamentarians (Petros Solomon, Mahmoud Ahmed Sherifo, Haile Woldense, Ogbe Abraha, Hamid Himid, Saleh Idris Kekya, Estifanos Seyoum, Berhane Ghebrezgabiher, Astier Fesehazion, Germano Nati, and Beraki Gebreselassie), and other political prisoners, and all prisoners of conscience; and
  • Strengthen sanctions against human rights abusers in Eritrea.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marc MillerInsofar as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is concerned:5)The Government of Canada is committed to the safety and security of the Canadian public. When foreign nationals seek entry to Canada, IRCC and CBSA work closely with their security partners to screen applicants, on a case by case basis, to determine whether they are admissible to enter and/or remain in Canada. Security screening is an important part of the overall assessment of whether a person is admissible to Canada. If an individual is determined to be inadmissible, they may be denied a visa and entry to Canada. Inadmissible individuals who are already in Canada may be removed from Canada.Under our immigration law, an individual can be found inadmissible for security reasons, including espionage; subversion (for example, attempts to overthrow a government); terrorism; or membership in an organization for which there are reasonable grounds to believe they are engaged, have engaged or will engage in any of these activities.They are also inadmissible on grounds of violating human or international rights for committing a crime against humanity or war crime outside Canada or being a prescribed senior official in a government that does so.Additionally, under the IRPA, foreign nationals who have committed or who are convicted of a crime outside Canada may be inadmissible to Canada. All past criminal history is considered. Immigration officers examine foreign charges, convictions, and evidence of criminal activity to determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is an equivalent offence, the individual would be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted for that offence. Insofar as the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) is concerned:4)The IRB hears individual claims for refugee status from claimants within Canada. IRB members (decision-makers) must decide whether a claimant has a well-founded fear of persecution or is at risk of torture, or cruel or unusual punishment in their country of origin and is not excluded from refugee protection for having committed a war crime or crime against humanity, among other reasons.In each case, IRB members make their decision applying the law to the evidence presented in the case. In most instances, the process is non-adversarial but at any time, the Minister may choose to intervene by submitting evidence, which the IRB member will consider in arriving at a decision, and participating in the hearing.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Eritrea and raises this concern directly with Eritrean officials, in its engagements with activists and representatives of the diaspora community, and in multilateral forums, including the United Nations Human Rights Council. At the Human Rights Council, Canada regularly calls upon Eritrea to improve the human rights situation in the country. At the Council’s 47th session in 2021, Canada actively negotiated the text and co-sponsored the Resolution entitled "Situation of human rights in Eritrea", which established the mandate of a UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea. Canada consistently co-sponsors this Resolution, most recently in 2023, and the extension of the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur.In March 2023 during the Council’s General Debate, Canada raised the issue of restrictions on freedoms and arbitrary detention in Eritrea, and continues to monitor the cases of imprisoned journalists, political activists, and members of religious groups. Canadian officials met with the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea during his October 2023 visit to Canada to discuss the dire human rights situation and his mandate.Canada has also repeatedly and publicly called for the swift withdrawal of Eritrean forces from northern Ethiopia, including through public joint statements with likeminded countries, as done on November 2, 2023, in the Joint Statement on the One Year Anniversary of the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. On September 22, 2022, officials of the Government of Canada spoke at the Human Rights Council and urged all parties to cease violence immediately, respect human rights and implement accountability measures, and called for the immediate withdrawal of Eritrean Defence Forces.Canada’s former Ambassador to Sudan, who represented Canada to Eritrea, engaged with Eritrean officials in 2021, calling on them to withdraw Eritrean Defense Forces from northern Ethiopia. On September 20, 2022, a tweet issued from the Global Affairs Canada corporate account deplored the movement of Eritrean Defence Forces in northern Ethiopia and condemned the escalation of hostilities.Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools, which include dialogue, capacity building, advocacy, multilateral engagement, and other diplomatic actions. Canada reviews all of its policy options continuously and tailors its responses to the specifics of each unique situation. Canada is judicious in its approach to imposing sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use when appropriate. To that end, Canada has established a rigorous due diligence process to consider and evaluate possible cases of human rights violations, corruption or other circumstances that may warrant the use of sanctions. Canada also considers the broader political and international contexts when deciding whether sanctions or any other tools in Canada’s foreign policy toolbox may be an appropriate response.The Government of Canada will continue to engage on the human rights situation in Eritrea. Promoting and protecting democracy, human rights, and fundamental freedoms is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Canada is committed to standing up for human rights and striving for a world where the rights and freedoms of all people are respected.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELL, M.P.There is no greater responsibility for the Government of Canada than to ensure its citizens and communities remain safe. Any report of harassment and intimidation of individuals in Canada is troubling and unacceptable. Where there is credible evidence of foreign interference, including transnational repression, Canada’s security and intelligence agencies use the full extent of their mandates to respond to these threats.This includes foreign influence activities within or relating to Canada that involve a threat to any person. The Government may take measures to reduce threats to the security of Canada in accordance with well-defined legal requirements and Ministerial direction.Complaints are received and assessed by the police of jurisdiction, and may be subject to further investigation. Applicable actions under Canadian legislation are taken as deemed appropriate.The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) provides the Canada Border Services Agency of Canada (CBSA) with the authority to undertake immigration enforcement actions against foreign nationals or permanent residents in Canada (including removal and detention where the necessary grounds exist).Among the security reasons for which foreign nationals or permanent residents may be inadmissible under section 34 (1) of the IRPA are, based on reasonable grounds to believe, that they have engaged in espionage; in subversion by force of any government, or in an act of subversion against a democratic government, institution or process as they are understood in Canada; or have engaged in terrorism. They may also be found inadmissible for being a member of an organization engaged in any of these activities.Any individual allegation of inadmissibility will be based on the evidence that is before the immigration official;  allegations of foreign interference, if supported by facts, can fall within the definition of espionage or subversion.Should investigations by the CBSA or other agencies (Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), local law enforcement, etc.) into a permanent resident or foreign national occur, such information would be used to support appropriate IRPA enforcement actions by CBSA officials. Allegations related to these types of inadmissibility ground must be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) for an admissibility hearing to determine if the person is inadmissible. If the IRB issues a removal order, enforcement action is then taken. With respect to overseas cases, the CBSA Centre for Immigration National Security Screening provides support to immigration officials assessing inadmissibility by providing analysis and support relating to assessments of inadmissibility due to terrorism, espionage, subversion, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and organized criminality. Where a visa applicant has been determined to be inadmissible, their visa may be refused by an immigration official.The IRPA provides no legislative authority relating to the denial of event permits.
Civil and human rightsEritreaForeign influenced activitiesForeign policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01979441-01979 (Foreign affairs)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABDecember 7, 2023January 29, 2024November 21, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWe, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas:
  • Various media outlets reported that the Communist Party of China (CCP) took efforts to interfere in Canada's federal elections;
  • Classified reports from the CSIS claim that a former CCP consular official in Canada celebrated and took credit for the defeat of two parliamentarians;
  • The Prime Minister's National Security Adviser, Jody Thomas, informed MPs that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was routinely briefed about election interference attempts by Beijing;
  • The Trudeau Foundation board of directors and CEO have resigned after a $200,000 donation from a businessman linked to the CCP was made to the organization;
  • The parliamentary committee investigating foreign interference voted to establish a public inquiry into foreign interference;
  • The Liberal government continues to block the creation of a public inquiry and denying its immediate necessity;
  • The Special Rapporteur appointed by the Prime Minister is in a hopeless conflict of interest having served as a member of the Trudeau Foundation, and is a personal friend of the Prime Minister;
  • The CCP engages in relationships with Canada as a strategic adversary such as hostage diplomacy with the unjust jailing of Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig;
  • The CCP has used this adversarial stance to conduct economic warfare on Canadian exports like agricultural products of grain and oil seeds that puts Canadian producers at risk; and
  • Canadians deserve democratic institutions they can trust that serve Canadians, and without interference from foreign agents.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:conduct a full open, independent, public inquiry into Beijing's election interference to give Canadians the transparency they need in order to restore the trust in Canada's civic and parliamentary institutions.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELLThe Government of Canada is committed to protecting and continuously strengthening Canada’s democracy, including its institutions and processes, in the face of evolving threats. This is why, in the summer of 2023, the Prime Minister asked the Minister responsible for democratic institutions to work to determine a way forward to shine light into the matter of foreign interference in Canada’s elections, and to determine who may be best suited to lead this public work.Following extensive consultations with all recognized parties in the House of Commons, the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs on September 7, 2023, announced that a public inquiry into foreign interference in Canada’s federal electoral processes and democratic institutions would be established under the Inquiries Act. All parties agreed to the Terms of Reference and the appointment of the Commissioner.The Honourable Marie-Josée Hogue, puisne judge of the Quebec Court of Appeal, was appointed as the Commissioner to lead the public inquiry. Her mandate began on September 18, 2023. Appointed under the Inquiries Act, the Commissioner operates independently from the government and has a full range of powers, including the power to compel witnesses and testimony on matters within federal jurisdiction, and broad access to classified and unclassified documents.The Commissioner is mandated to examine and assess interference by China, Russia and other foreign states or nonstate actors, including any potential impacts, to confirm the integrity of, and any impacts on, the 43rd and 44th federal general elections at the national and electoral district levels.The Commissioner is also mandated to assess the capacity of federal entities to detect, deter and counter foreign interference targeting Canada’s democratic processes, and to make any recommendations she deems appropriate to better protect Canada’s democratic processes from foreign interference, including in relation to the creation and dissemination of intelligence, relevant supports and protections for members of diasporas, and the mechanisms that were in place to protect the integrity of 43rd and 44th elections.The Commissioner is directed to submit her first report no later than May 3, 2024, and her second report no later than December 31, 2024. As outlined in the Terms of Reference (https://www.canada.ca/en/democratic-institutions/general/terms-reference.html), to foster transparency and a better understanding of the findings, leaders of all parties recognized in the House of Commons with appropriate clearance will be invited to review classified versions of the Commissioner’s reports. The Government of Canada looks forward to receiving the Commissioner’s reports and any recommendations contained therein.The National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) and the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA) each have ongoing, parallel, reviews to assess the state of foreign interference in Canada’s federal electoral processes and the flow of information from national security agencies to decision makers during the 43rd and 44th general elections. The Government of Canada looks forward to receiving NSICOP’s and NSIRA’s findings and reports.The Government of Canada also continues to reinforce its efforts to counter any form of foreign interference in our electoral processes and to strengthen trust in Canada’s democratic institutions.  On March 6, 2023, the Prime Minister of Canada announced measures to further these objectives. This included the establishment of a National Counter Foreign Interference Coordinator at Public Safety Canada to coordinate efforts to combat foreign interference; the development of a plan to address outstanding recommendations from NSICOP and from the independent assessments of the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol by Mr. Morris Rosenberg and Mr. James Judd; and, the investment of $5.5 million that created the Canadian Digital Media Research Network, that will further strengthen Canadians’ information resilience by researching how quality of information, including disinformation narratives, impacts Canadians’ attitudes and behaviours and by supporting strategies for Canadians’ digital literacy.Following the Prime Minister’s announcements, the Government released its report, Countering an evolving threat: Update on recommendations to counter foreign interference in Canada’s democratic institutions, which outlines the recommendations made in the reports to protect Canadian democratic institutions and processes; summarizes the actions that have been taken or are in progress to address the recommendations; and proposes further steps for consideration to bolster Canada’s response to foreign interference threats.These efforts demonstrate the Government’s continued efforts to protect our democratic institutions, including our electoral processes, from any possible threats, and to ensure Canada’s democracy remains one of the strongest in the world. Thank you for taking the time to submit this important petition and for being an active and engaged participant in our democracy.
ChinaForeign influenced activitiesInquiries and public inquiries
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01815441-01815 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerEquality rights are at the core of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are intended to ensure that everyone of every age is treated with the same respect, dignity, and consideration, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, mental or physical disability, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, and gender identities and expressions, from coast, to coast to coast.Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression continue to be a reality in Canada, and it must be eliminated. It is important that parents be involved in the lives of their children, and that should be balanced with the importance of protecting vulnerable young people.The Government of Canada is committed to promoting 2SLGBTQI+ equality, protecting 2SLGBTQI+ rights, and addressing discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both past and current.The Government has taken several actions to end discrimination against transgender and gender diverse people in Canada. Some highlights:• A new Action Plan to Combat Hate that will also address hate faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including trans people (See Budget 2023, chapter 4)• 2022: Government of Canada criminalized conversion therapies, see Statement• 2017: Canadian Human Rights Act amended to protect gender identity and gender expression• 2022: Launch of Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action PlanThe first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan enables the federal government to help advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people of every age in Canada. It also seeks to address and prevent discrimination and stigma based on sexual orientation, sex characteristics, gender identity and expression for future 2SLGBTQI+ generations.The Action Plan achieves these objectives by prioritizing community action and by coordinating work to advance 2SLGBTQI+ issues across the federal government, recognizing the types of inequities facing communities. The plan is supported by an investment of $100 million, which will help create a more equitable Canada for 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both present and future generations. In doing so it builds upon work the Government of Canada has done to address persisting disparities faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities and to build a safer, more inclusive country 
ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 4, 2023441-01784441-01784 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 19, 2023December 4, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerEquality rights are at the core of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are intended to ensure that everyone of every age is treated with the same respect, dignity, and consideration, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, mental or physical disability, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, and gender identities and expressions, from coast, to coast to coast.Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression continue to be a reality in Canada, and it must be eliminated. It is important that parents be involved in the lives of their children, and that should be balanced with the importance of protecting vulnerable young people.The Government of Canada is committed to promoting 2SLGBTQI+ equality, protecting 2SLGBTQI+ rights, and addressing discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both past and current.The Government has taken several actions to end discrimination against transgender and gender diverse people in Canada. Some highlights:• A new Action Plan to Combat Hate that will also address hate faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including trans people (See Budget 2023, chapter 4)• 2022: Government of Canada criminalized conversion therapies, see Statement• 2017: Canadian Human Rights Act amended to protect gender identity and gender expression• 2022: Launch of Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action PlanThe first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan enables the federal government to help advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people of every age in Canada. It also seeks to address and prevent discrimination and stigma based on sexual orientation, sex characteristics, gender identity and expression for future 2SLGBTQI+ generations.The Action Plan achieves these objectives by prioritizing community action and by coordinating work to advance 2SLGBTQI+ issues across the federal government, recognizing the types of inequities facing communities. The plan is supported by an investment of $100 million, which will help create a more equitable Canada for 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both present and future generations. In doing so it builds upon work the Government of Canada has done to address persisting disparities faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities and to build a safer, more inclusive country.
ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01625441-01625 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023June 16, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The illegitimate military junta in Burma continues to indiscriminately kill, torture, rape, imprison and displace civilians, particularly through air strikes, causing an increased need for vital humanitarian assistance;
  • Communications infrastructure within the country, often used to warn civilians of imminent attack, has been destroyed by the military;
  • The state-owned Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprises (MOGE) accounts for the majority of funding the military receives to commit human rights atrocities; and
  • Canada has outlined its own obligation to aid in the Myanmar crisis as reported in "Canada's strategy to respond to the Rohingya and Myanmar crises (2021 to 2024)" as well our commitment under the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) principle.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to:
  • Call on the military junta in Burma to immediately cease all executions, atrocities and human rights abuses against civilians;
  • Increase humanitarian aid into Burma, especially via local civil society organizations working cross-border from neighbouring countries, to more adequately address the needs of vulnerable communities;
  • Provide the technological and logistical support for communication infrastructure to establish early-warning systems and air defence systems to warn and protect civilians from aerial attacks, to save lives and prevent human rights abuses;
  • Call on insurance companies to stop providing insurance cover for deliveries of aviation fuel to Burma;
  • Impose sanctions against MOGE, including blocking direct and indirect oil and gas purchases that support the Burmese regime;
  • Swiftly implement the objectives set out in the aforementioned strategy and uphold our international obligation of R2P;
  • Refuse to engage or recognize the junta's State Administration Council (SAC) in any regional or international fora;
  • Promote ongoing dialogue among pro-democracy groups and diaspora groups, with a view to helping the Burmese people to develop an inclusive democracy with full recognition and representation of all ethnic minority communities, including Rohingya; and
  • Provide assistance to Burma's politicians and citizens to support the development of a federal democratic system and power sharing that would provide a solution for the country of multiethnic people who have been living together before the country could be called Burma.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has unequivocally condemned the February 2021 military coup against the democratically elected government of Myanmar, and supports the people of Myanmar and their democratic aspirations in the face of brutality and egregious international human rights and humanitarian law violations. Canada continues to call for the cessation of violence and armed conflict; the release of all who are unjustly detained; immediate and unrestricted humanitarian access; and a halt on sales and transfer of arms, military equipment and technical support which fuel the conflict and undermine stability in the country and the region. Canada is concerned by a growing humanitarian crisis, democratic and economic reversals, worsening violations of international law and what the UN Commissioner referred to as the systematic negation of human rights, human life and human dignity, and the potential for growing instability and insecurity in Myanmar, with implications for the region and diminished prospects for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return for Rohingya currently in Bangladesh. Canada condemns escalating attacks against civilians, including airstrikes of populated and civilian areas with heavy weaponry, and the arbitrary detention, and deaths of civilians, all of which have deepened the humanitarian crisis.Canada is also concerned by the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) findings of far-reaching violations of freedom of association and forced labour, and by the politicization of the judiciary and the precipitous decline in human rights protections and media freedoms. The erosion of the right to free, fair and impartial trials, and the resumption of capital punishment after a 30-year de facto moratorium is of particular concern. Canada opposes the death penalty at all times, everywhere. Canada, along with international partners, condemned the execution of pro-democracy opposition leaders and supporters in 2022, underscoring that these actions exemplify the regime’s efforts to silence political opposition and exemplify blatant disregard for the upholding of human rights and the rule of law.Canada supports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) and its resolute efforts to address this crisis through the ASEAN Five-Point-Consensus, while remaining increasingly concerned by lack of progress on this agreement’s implementation in the face of the regime’s intransigence. Full and timely implementation of the Five-Point-Consensus remains critical as is ASEAN’s continued downgrading of Myanmar representation at ASEAN high-level meetings and fora.Responding to the interlinked Myanmar and Rohingya crises remains a priority for Canada. On June 20, 2022, Canada announced the second phase of its Strategy to respond to the Myanmar and Rohingya crises, dedicating $288.3 million over three years (2021-2024) to address the medium- and longer-term needs and human rights of Rohingya refugees and other conflict-affected populations in Myanmar. Of this amount, $83 million supports development programming in Myanmar; $145 million for development programming for Rohingya and host communities in Bangladesh; and $24 million for Peace and Stabilization Operations programming. The Strategy supports at-risk and affected populations in Myanmar and Bangladesh, particularly Rohingya refugees, internally displaced persons, and impacted host communities; intensifies efforts to advance an inclusive and sustainable peace in Myanmar; supports efforts to advance a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Myanmar, including engagement with pro-democracy stakeholders; and, increases pressure on malign actors, including through continued pursuit of accountability for human rights violations and targeted sanctions efforts.While ensuring that no funding or support is going to the regime, Canada continues to provide development and humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable, working through UN and civil society organizations, including local networks and alliance-based partners. Canada continues to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance for crisis-affected populations, in accordance with needs on the ground. For example, in 2022, Canada has contributed $10.3 million in immediate humanitarian assistance to address the needs of crisis-affected people in Myanmar, including support to the Rohingya population. Canada has also contributed $15.3 million in humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh, to help address the needs of Rohingya refugees. In addition, on June 1, 2023, Canada announced $4 million in additional humanitarian assistance funding in Myanmar, and $1 million in funding for Bangladesh in response to Cyclone Mocha. Cross-border in Bangladesh, Canada continues to play a leading role in marshalling the response to the refugee crisis, leveraging a strong position on accountability and credibility as a top international donor.Canada has a legacy of support for democracy and federalism globally and in Myanmar, continuing to support the democratic aspirations of the Myanmar people and those who work peacefully to advance an inclusive democratic future. Canada engages with the range of pro-democracy stakeholders advancing and modelling a democratic peaceful and inclusive vision for Myanmar, including with high-level engagement such as the recent meeting between Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and a senior appointed representative of the National Unity Government of Myanmar. Canada is a steadfast supporter of the need to address the root causes in Myanmar that led to the violent expulsion of Rohingya refugees to Bangladesh, the coup, and decades of conflict with ethnic minority armed groups. The Government of Canada’s current Strategy and commitments are centred on the meaningful participation and diverse representation, including Rohingya, women and youth.Canada prioritizes ending impunity and ensuring accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations in Myanmar and justice for survivors, including Rohingya. Canada does this through support to the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), and our announced intention to intervene, with the Netherlands, in The Gambia’s case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. Canada strongly supported the historic United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution 2669 – Security Council Demands Immediate End of Violence in Myanmar, Urges Restraint, Release of Arbitrary Detained Prisoners (December 2022), and co-sponsored the United Nations Human Rights Council resolution A/HRC/52/L.19 - Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar (April 2023). At the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Prosecutor’s investigation into allegations of forced deportation as a crime against humanity has presented an opportunity for accountability, although Canada continues to call for the UNSC to refer the situation to the ICC, so that the commission of all serious international crimes under the Rome Statute can be investigated.Canada, in close coordination with international partners, has imposed seven rounds of sanctions since the coup as part of Canada’s commitment to support democracy and ending impunity in Myanmar, most recently January 31, 2023. Canada’s sanctions are in direct response to the regime’s continued disregard for the human rights of the people of Myanmar and target senior members of the regime who are using their respective roles to abuse the rule of law and remove political opposition, thus contributing to a grave breach of international peace and the deteriorating security situation. Through these sanctions, Canada has also targeted arms and aviation fuel procurement, and was the first country to impose a prohibition on aviation fuel in respond to the regime’s continued targeting of civilians in violation of international law. Canada, alongside its international partners, will continue to respond to actions that constitute a grave breach of international peace and security, threaten stability in the region, and subvert the rights and dignity of Myanmar people. Canada will continue to monitor the situation, assessing the effectiveness of additional policy measures, taking further actions in coordination with our partners as the situation evolves.There is no immediate solution to this protracted crisis, and Canada acknowledges that an effective ongoing response requires sustained effort, attention, commitment, and leadership on the part of Canada; the meaningful participation of Myanmar people, including Rohingya; and sustained coordination and engagement with key national, regional and international allies and partners. In this regard, we strongly welcome the petition and its calls for continued and strengthened engagement on the part of the Government of Canada.
Civil and human rightsForeign policyMyanmar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01613441-01613 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023May 18, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Thermal coal, the kind burned to make electricity, is the world's dirtiest fossil fuel;
  • Thermal coal creates half of the world's carbon emissions and the pollution it creates kills more than 800,000 people every year;
  • The government has a plan to phase out thermal coal exports, but it is outdated and insufficient;
  • The world needs to move rapidly away from thermal coal to have any chance of limiting global warming to the Paris target of 1.5 degrees Celsius;
  • The physical effects of climate change pose serious risks for Canadians, Canada's wildlife and the Canadian economy including permafrost melt, droughts, heatwaves, wildfires, floods, sea level rise, increased vector-borne diseases, disruptions to supply chains, destruction of infrastructure and damage to key industries including agriculture and forestry; and
  • Canada's greenhouse gas emissions have increased since the Paris Agreement was signed, making it the worst performing of all G7 nations since the 2015 Conference of the Parties in Paris, France.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Add thermal coal to the Priority Substances List of the Canadian Environment Protection Act (CEPA), and, as soon thereafter as possible, to the Toxic Substances List of CEPA; and
  • 2. Regulate the mining, use, export, and import of thermal coal in Canada in accordance with our international commitments to reduce carbon emissions at home and abroad.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTPhasing out coal use in our electricity sector is another critical component of Canadian and global efforts to tackle climate change. The clean energy transition will not only cut greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), it will also protect our air, our water and our health.In December 2018, Canada published regulations to phase out conventional coal-fired electricity by 2030. This is expected to result in cumulative GHG reductions of 94 million tonnes over the 2019 to 2055 period, including 12.8 million tonnes in 2030.At the 26th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties, the Canadian Prime Minister stated Canada’s goal of establishing a net-zero emissions electricity grid by 2035. This commitment was reflected in the mandate letter for the Minister of the Environment in December 2021. Achieving that goal will be transformational, and will require multiple measures and all levels of government working together. At the federal level, the new Clean Electricity Standard is being complemented by numerous investment programs for the electricity sector administered by Natural Resources Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and Infrastructure Canada, including those announced in Budget 2022. These measures are intended to help ensure that Canada achieves a clean, reliable and affordable electricity system. For further information regarding the development of the Clean Electricity Standard, please see A clean electricity standard in support of a net-zero electricity sector: discussion paperwww.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/canadian-environmental-protection-act-registry/achieving-net-zero-emissions-electricity-generation-discussion-paper.htmlThe Government of Canada is also addressing GHG emissions from electricity generation globally. Burning thermal coal is the single largest contributor to climate change globally and a major source of toxic pollution that harms human health. In 2019, Export Development Canada committed to no new financing for international coal-fired power plants, thermal coal mines or dedicated thermal coal-related infrastructure. In May 2021, all G7 countries, following Canada’s leadership, also agreed to take concrete steps to end government investment for unabated thermal coal power generation projects. In the aforementioned mandate letter of December 2021, the Minister of Environment was also mandated to work with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development to continue Canada’s leadership on the global effort to phase out coal-powered electricity and the mining of thermal coal and ban thermal coal exports from and through Canada as swiftly as possible, and no later than 2030.    
Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999CoalEnvironmental protectionInternational tradeMining industry
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 14, 2024441-02168441-02168 (Health)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBFebruary 14, 2024May 26, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 13, 2023441-01395441-01395 (Transportation)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBMay 1, 2023June 13, 2023April 25, 2023Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned, residents of the Province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: WHEREAS:
  • There is a growing number of residents in capital region of Winnipeg that would like to see a direct flight from Winnipeg to India or at the very least, from Winnipeg to India via one stopover in a country in Europe;
  • The region surrounding Winnipeg including Manitoba, Western Ontario and Eastern Saskatchewan has also seen substantial growth of people of Indian heritage;
  • Winnipeg has in the past, had international flights direct from Winnipeg to cities in Europe; and
  • The overall population in the area that is served by the Winnipeg International Airport has grown considerably over recent years and is estimated at close to 2 million people.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Immediately consider how best to encourage and support direct international flights from Winnipeg to destinations in India and or any European countries that have direct flights to cities in India like Amritsar and New Delhi; and2. Promote airlines to address the need and work with the Winnipeg International Airport and other stakeholders to make these flights become a reality.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraThe Government of Canada takes note of the campaign advocating for direct flights between Canada and Amritsar, India, and is aware of the importance of this issue for many Canadians, especially those with ties to Punjab.The Government of Canada is responsible for negotiating bilateral air transport agreements with foreign governments. These agreements govern the operation of scheduled air services and provide the legal framework within which airlines make decisions based on their own commercial priorities, actual market demand, and the operational viability of routes. This is an important point as the locations that Canadian airlines decide to serve are business decisions.The Government of Canada expanded its air transport agreement with India in 2022, and was able to remove limits on capacity (i.e., the number of flights that can be operated). Currently, Canadian air carriers can operate own-aircraft services to Bangalore (Bengaluru), Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai, while Indian air carriers can operate own-aircraft services to Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, Vancouver, and two additional points to be selected by India. While agreement was not reached on access to additional cities during the negotiations in 2022, officials from both countries remain in contact to discuss further expansion of the air transport agreement.In the meantime, when operating code-share services, which is a type of marketing arrangement, Amritsar is available to Canadian carriers. Additionally, the agreement does not preclude Indian airlines from operating direct services to/from anywhere in India, including Amritsar, to Canada.Bilateral agreements cannot be unilaterally amended, and thus far an agreement has not been reached with India with respect to access to additional cities. However, Canadian Ministers have pressed Canada’s air transport interests during meetings with their Indian counterparts. The Minister of Transport has pursued the addition of cities in Punjab in the air transport agreement on multiple occasions, including with India’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya Scindia, in May of 2022, where he sought an expanded air transport agreement that also includes direct access to Amritsar for Canadian airlines.Over the past year, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has met with her counterpart, India’s External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, on a number of occasions, which is a reflection of the countries’ strong and growing economic, cultural and people-to-people ties. The Ministers have continually taken these opportunities to reaffirm their commitment to deepening cooperation in these and all facets of the bilateral relationship.Most recently, these Ministers met on March 3, 2023, and discussed, among other things, Canada’s interests in obtaining market access for direct air services to a greater number of cities in India (including in Punjab).Subsequently, on March 24, 2023, Canada’s High Commissioner to India wrote to Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, reiterating Canada’s interest in exchanging the right for Canada’s respective airlines to operate services to any point or points in the other country’s territory. The Government of Canada has not yet received a reply.The Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development has also recently spoken with her counterpart, the Indian Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, on May 8, 2023 regarding this issue. The Minister of Transport also met with Minister Goyal the same day to further press Canada’s interest in access to Punjab.With respect to services operated by European airlines, Canada’s air transport agreement with the United Kingdom and its agreement with the 27 Member States of the European Union, are very open, and permit airlines to operate from all cities in Canada to any destinations in the United Kingdom or the European Union. There are no impediments preventing Canadian, United Kingdom or European Union air carriers from serving Winnipeg. However, it is important to note that the Government of Canada does not determine which routes Canadian or foreign carriers serve as the decision is a commercial one made by airlines. It is also important to note that the rights of European airlines to serve points in India are set out in the air transport agreements between those carriers’ respective home countries and India. 
Air transportationIndiaWinnipeg
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01432441-01432 (Consumer protection)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBMay 9, 2023July 19, 2023April 25, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned, residents of the Province of Manitoba, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is reporting a rise in money laundering and fraud with the set-up of synthetic or false bank accounts where money is being sent from duped seniors' savings accounts and potentially going towards terrorist financing;The Government of BC estimates that $46.7 billion was laundered through the Canadian economy in 2018;FINTRAC (Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada) states requirements are not sufficient to prevent fraudsters from moving money illegally under the pretense of legitimacy through the wire transfer system in Canada;Our growing retiree population in Canada are increasingly becoming the target of fraud given they have built up wealth over a lifetime to help them support their retirement years and are vulnerable due to lack of controls and protection through the transmission of money within the Canadian banking system; andSeniors are seeing their savings built up over years removed due to the sophistication and disguised deceit and trickery foisted on them by professional fraudsters to exploit them and the current Canadian banking system.We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to undertake a serious and comprehensive review of the current transit system of Canadian citizens' money in this country with the aim of putting more stringent procedures, protocols, and safeguards in place to protect seniors in particular from losing their lifetime savings and wealth to fraud.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada is committed to a strong and comprehensive Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing (AML/ATF) Regime. The government continually reviews the Regime to ensure that it is responsive to evolving risks. Since 2019, the government has made investments of over $319.9 million and a number of legislative and regulatory changes to enhance the effectiveness of the Regime.Budget 2023 proposes legislative amendments to strengthen the investigative, enforcement, and information sharing tools of Canada’s AML/ATF Regime. These amendments will complement the government’s Budget 2022 commitment to establish a new Canada Financial Crimes Agency to become the lead enforcement agency against financial crime.On June 6th, 2023, a public consultation was launched that will examine ways to improve Canada's AML/ATF Regime, as well as examine how different orders of government can collaborate more closely. This consultation will support the parliamentary review required under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. Details of these consultations can be found here: Consultation on Strengthening Canada's Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing Regime - Canada.caIllicit funds laundered by criminal actors are often generated illegally through fraud, including fraud that targets seniors. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting Canadians from these types of crimes. One major way it does so is through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, which is the central repository for fraud information and intelligence in Canada, and is jointly operated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police and the Competition Bureau of Canada. As a National Police Service function, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre gathers intelligence on fraud affecting Canadians, and assists all law enforcement agencies across Canada with fraud prevention and enforcement. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has a Senior Support Unit entirely supported by volunteers who are dedicated to reducing the impact of fraud across Canada. The Senior Support Unit is a critical component of the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, providing advice, education and reassurance to vulnerable Canadians targeted by fraudsters. The Senior Support Unit receives reports referred by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s Intake Unit, after identifying that further assistance for a senior or vulnerable individual is needed.
Banks and bankinge-SecuritySenior citizens
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01436441-01436 (Transportation)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 10, 2023July 19, 2023February 6, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED Whereas:
  • The government's 10-year transit plan will end in 2027;
  • Action on public transit means action on climate change, as transportation is responsible for approximately 25 per cent of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions; and
  • According to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, a transition to zeroemission public transit can help Canada reach its 2030 Paris Climate Agreement commitments.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Establish a permanent federal funding mechanism for public transit that goes above and beyond the 10-year transit plan ending in 2027;
  • Work together with all levels of government to provide sustainable, predictable, long-term, and adequate funding; and
  • Establish accountability measures to ensure that all governments work together to increase access to public transit.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellCanada’s public transit systems provide essential service to millions of people, generate billions of dollars in economic benefits, and help Canada meet its climate targets given that the transportation sector accounts for approximately 25 percent of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions. Since 2015, the Government of Canada has made the most significant public transit investments in Canada’s history, delivering federal investments of more than ten times of what was provided in the decade prior.Investments in public transit and active transportation are critical to build a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Canada, helping to improve quality of life by enabling people to get around more easily and to tackle traffic congestion, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. They are also closely connected to housing affordability, providing opportunities to build more housing supply by allowing communities to build more densely.To help ensure major transit projects are built sooner, the Government of Canada accelerated the delivery of funding provided through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, partnering with provinces to deliver important transit and active transportation infrastructure that meets the needs of our communities today and into the future.Building on the success of dedicated transit funding through the Investing in Canada Plan, in 2021, the Government introduced the Zero Emission Transit Fund, the Active Transportation Fund, and the Rural Transit Solutions Fund. These dedicated transit programs, which will deliver funding until 2025-2026, aim to accelerate the shift towards clean, sustainable transportation modes across the country and facilitated federal funding for key public transit projects.In 2026-27, the Government of Canada will launch permanent transit funding providing an average of $3 billion per year. This ongoing funding will deliver stability required for long-term planning and collaboration across orders of government while allowing flexibility to address regional needs and considerations. Permanent federal funding for public transit and active transportation presents an opportunity to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, transit agencies, Indigenous peoples and other partners to align investment priorities and address shared objectives, including driving economic, environmental and social outcomes, and improving housing supply and affordability in communities of all sizes across Canada.Reporting to the public will provide a clear picture of the impact of these investments and support accountability. The Government of Canada concluded engagement on the federal vision for permanent public transit funding in October 2022. A PDF version of the Engagement Paper: Permanent Public Transit Funding in Canada is currently available online  and a summary report of what we heard during the engagement will be published online in Spring/Summer2023. 
Federal-provincial-territorial relationsPublic transit
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 30, 2023441-01139441-01139 (Justice)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONFebruary 14, 2023March 30, 2023February 6, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada Whereas:
  • The Government of Canada's amendments to C-21 tabled in the Committee on November 22, 2022 negatively affect law-abiding gun owners;
  • The amendments of C-21 drastically change the original focus of the bill;
  • In the amendment of C-21 the definition "prohibited firearm" was not in the Charter Statement and was not debated in the House of Commons;
  • Public Safety Canada stated that the Hill & Knowlton consultant summary "Reducing Violence: A Dialogue of Handguns and Assault Weapons" was their primary source of Information to justify the Order in Council 2020-0298 and Bill C-21. As noted in the report key findings, the majority of stakeholders who were invited by Public Safety Canada for written responses opposed a potential ban of firearms of legal gun owners;
  • The amendment of November 22, 2022, "evergreen definition" of a prohibited firearm is an overreach. Semi-automatic firearms are non-restrictive. Fully automatic firearm and magazines capacity of more than five have been prohibited in Canada since the 1970s;
  • The amendment to C-21 greatly infringes on the treaty rights of First Nations legal gun owners; and
  • The prohibited firearm definition is an item currently contained with in Federal Court Case concerning the Order in Council of May 2020. The amendment could directly affect the outcome of this Federal Court Case.
We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Stop targeting law abiding hunters, sports shooters and farmers with gun legislation; and2. Immediately withdraw the amendments tabled on November 22, 2022, at the Standing Committee of Public Safety and National Security.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.As part of a comprehensive approach to address firearms violence and control, the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns.On February 3, 2023, the Government withdrew these amendments to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we are committed to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner.
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02050441-02050 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABFebruary 1, 2024March 18, 2024December 12, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01247441-01247 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 30, 2023May 15, 2023October 20, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Muhammad Naeem Chatta Qadri, a senior cleric from the Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP), in a recent speech, has called for violence against Ahmadiyya Muslim pregnant women and children, "to ensure that no new Ahmadis are born", and "those [Ahmadi] babies that are being born, should be killed";Muhammad Naeem Chatta Qadri has also said that "those who are the Blasphemers of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), we will kill them and cut them in pieces", and led slogans that "there is but only one punishment for blasphemers, killing";Ahmadi children in Punjab's Attock district have been expelled from school for their religious beliefs;Pakistan is a signatory to the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that "everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom ... to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance"; andCanadians are concerned about the the safety and security of all minorities in Pakistan, including Ahmadiyya Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and other Muslim minorities.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons and the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Condemn the encouragement and call to violence, against Ahmadi women and children, made by political actors of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik, especially Muhammad Naeem Chatta Qadri;
  • 2. Defend the rights of Pakistani Ahmadi children to attend school;
  • 3. Urge the Pakistani government to openly condemn violence against Ahmadi Muslims and all religious minorities; and
  • 4.Urge the Pakistani government to reform or eliminate their blasphemy laws, which disproportionately target religious minorities.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is concerned by the ongoing persecution of Pakistan’s religious minorities, including the Ahmadi Muslim community, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians and Shia Muslims. The promotion and protection of human rights, including freedom of religion or belief and the right to education, is a global foreign policy priority for Canada. It is also a key area of Canadian engagement in Pakistan. Freedom of religion or belief is a universal human right enshrined in key international human rights documents, and is intrinsically linked to other fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of expression, of assembly, and of association. Everyone should have the freedom to practice their religion or belief without fear of persecution or violence regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity or nationality.Canada is deeply concerned by the persecution of the Ahmadi Muslim community in Pakistan. Canada condemns in the strongest terms incitement of and calls to violence against Ahmadi Muslims. Religious intolerance and discrimination, no matter their form, are completely unacceptable.Canada consistently calls on Pakistan to respect, protect and promote freedom of religion or belief for all, and will continue to advocate for these values to be upheld. Canada has made its views on human rights and freedom of religion or belief known directly to Pakistani government officials at the federal and provincial level, as well as with the Pakistani High Commission in Ottawa, as recently as March 2023.Canada continues to engage first hand with the Ahmadi Muslim community and works to support civil society actors, human rights defenders, and local advocates. The Canadian High Commission in Pakistan also closely monitors specific cases of human rights violations and has engaged with government and civil society stakeholders to support victims, including by facilitating their access to legal advice and assistance.Canada works with international partners to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief, including through the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief (ICG-FoRB), which Canada established in 2015 to encourage and deepen multilateral coordination on this critical issue. Canada uses its position of leadership at the ICG FoRB to advocate on behalf of persecuted faith and belief communities internationally, including the Ahmadi Muslim Community in Pakistan. Furthermore, Canada continues to promote freedom of religion or belief, most recently sharing its concerns regarding the persecution of Ahmadi Muslims and other religious minorities during the 52nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, in March 2023.Rest assured that the Government of Canada will remain steadfast in its engagement on this issue, as well as other human rights concerns.
Civil and human rightsPakistanReligious minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 1, 2023441-01603441-01603 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABSeptember 18, 2023November 1, 2023November 4, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01802441-01802 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023November 4, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 1, 2023441-01606441-01606 (Justice)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONSeptember 18, 2023November 1, 2023November 4, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 20, 2023441-01168441-01168 (Indigenous affairs)TerryDuguidWinnipeg SouthLiberalMBMarch 7, 2023April 20, 2023November 22, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister of CanadaWhereas:
  • Your petitioners took part in an event for residents and staff of Shaftesbury Park Retirement Home in Winnipeg, to acknowledge Survivors Day on September 30;
  • We held an hour-long presentation, including a presentation by a Survivor, exhibited some 50 books on First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures, answered questions for several hours, and offered 10 specific actions that seniors can take to support reconciliation;
  • Recognizing the words of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, that "reconciliation begins with each and every one of us," we addressed the 94 Calls to Action;
  • While we applaud the accelerated efforts recently taken by our government, we are deeply concerned that, at the current rate, the 94 Calls to Action may not be fully implemented for some 50 years, which in our view is totally unacceptable, as justice delayed is justice denied;
  • Many of the Calls to action are concrete, achievable goals in a brief time frame;
  • Your petitioners wish to focus on Action #8, the elimination of the discrepancy in educational funding for Reserve schools;
  • Distinguished economist Don Drummond estimates the current gap in funding to be 30% between Reserve and other Canadian schools, and Chiefs of First Nations constantly highlight the discrepancy;
  • It is hard to imagine how we can permit such a discrepancy that is clearly racist by its very nature; and
  • We would expect that every political party and parliamentarian would support rectifying this situation.
Therefore, we, residents and staff of Shaftesbury Park Retirement Home in Winnipeg, urge the government to:1. Accelerate the implementation of the Calls to Action; and2. Rapidly implement Call to Action # 8, the elimination of the discrepancy in educational funding for Reserve schools.
Response by the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern OntarioSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Vance BadaweyThe Minister of Indigenous Services would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their interest and concern regarding the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, specifically Call to Action 8 regarding the elimination of discrepancy in federal education funding for First Nations children being educated on reserves and those First Nations children being educated off reserves.The Government of Canada is committed to working collaboratively with Indigenous communities to fully implement the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report.In 2019-2020 the department implemented a new, provincially comparable, funding and policy approach which was co-developed with First Nations partners. The transformed approach, which provides stable and predictable education funding, aims to help meet the needs of First Nations students living on reserve and includes additional investments in areas such as language and culture programming, full-day kindergarten for children aged 4 and 5 and support for before- and after-school programming.In 2021-2022, approximately $2.7 billion was provided for First Nations elementary and education on reserve. In 2021, Canada invested $1.7 billion over five years, and $300 million per year ongoing, beyond existing funding, to improve education on reserve. More information on investments and supports for elementary and secondary education can be found at https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1100100033676/1531314895090.Further, we will continue to work with all First Nations that wish to pursue a regional education agreement as an avenue for advancing self-determination over their education systems. As of July 2022, nine regional education agreements have been concluded supporting approximately 28,441 students. The regional education agreements advance service transfer and self-determination and respond to the unique needs and priorities of First Nations communities. Budget 2022 provided $310.6 million over five years to support student outcomes through a Regional Education Agreement with the First Nations Education Council, which includes 22 member communities in Quebec.Updated information on the status of all 76 federal-led Calls to Action can be found at: https://rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1524494530110/1557511412801.
Education and trainingIndigenous reservesReconciliation with indigenous peoples
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00812441-00812 (Natural resources and energy)GlenMotzMedicine Hat—Cardston—WarnerConservativeABOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022June 7, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The carbon tax is set to continually rise each year until 2030, which will add an extra 38 cents per litre at the gas station;
  • The carbon tax drives up the cost of everyday essentials, including gas, groceries and heating and makes life very expensive for Canadians;
  • The Bank of Canada has said that the carbon tax has increased the impact of inflation by close to 0.5%;
  • The carbon tax is an added expense to Canadian businesses while also creating an economic disadvantage compared to other nations; and
  • CO2 emissions have only increased under the Liberal government.
Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) End the carbon tax and charging GST on the carbon tax, which harms businesses, families and our economy;2) Reduce inflation and government spending; and3) Approve pipelines and other projects, especially LNG pipelines, to get clean ethical Canadian energy to tidewater and international markets.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada is advancing a number of efforts to realize its clean growth objectives and position itself to be a global supplier of clean energy in a net zero world. In addition to renewable energy expansion and the deployment of clean fuels, Canada remains committed to regulatory effectiveness, efficiency and transparency across all forms of energy development and use. Together, these efforts will help combat climate change and ensure Canada and Canada’s allies can rely on a secure and diverse supply of energy.As Canada manages the dual crises of energy security and climate change, the Government of Canada recognizes that a strong oil and gas sector will continue to play a key role throughout Canada’s and the world’s transition to a low-carbon economy. A key part of supporting this transition is continued investment in new and existing energy infrastructure, including pipelines. Such investments are necessary to ensure the reliability of Canada’s energy system, including meeting current oil and natural gas demand and the transportation of various cleaner, low carbon fuels. Pipelines are currently the safest and most efficient way to transport crude oil and natural gas. Their use is expected to evolve as the energy transition continues – including the transportation of hydrogen, ammonia, and carbon dioxide. In the near-term, the Canadian energy industry is advancing projects to increase the capacity of Canada’s oil and natural gas pipelines to ensure access to export markets, which will also help Canadian producers receive a fair market price for their products. These efforts range from small increases to the capacity of existing pipelines by adding pumping or compression power, to the building of major new projects approved by the Government of Canada, such as the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, the Enbridge Line 3 replacement project, and TC Energy’s expansion of its Nova Gas Transmission Limited (NGTL) system of natural gas pipelines.Further efforts to increase Canada’s export capacity are also being explored, including investments in new natural gas pipeline projects to enable LNG exports from Canada’s West and East coasts. LNG Canada, which will begin exporting to Asian markets in 2025, and other proposed Canadian LNG projects, aim to develop the world’s lowest emitting facilities and establish reliable, direct access to global markets to capture higher value for Canadian natural gas, support allies’ energy security, and advance the global energy transition.As the world moves through the energy transition, Canada will remain an economy in which sustainable development of natural resources will continue to make an indispensable contribution to a prosperous and  diversified energy future.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandClimate change is an existential challenge, and climate action is critical to Canada’s long-term health and economic prosperity. Carbon pricing is widely recognized as effective and the most efficient means of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, which is why our government has made sure that it is no longer free to pollute in Canada.The federal price on pollution is revenue neutral for the federal government; the direct proceeds from the federal carbon pricing system remain in the province or territory where they are collected. Put simply, every dollar collected from the carbon price is returned.In Prince Edward Island, Yukon, and Nunavut, the direct proceeds from the federal system are returned to the governments of these jurisdictions. In provinces that do not have a fuel charge consistent with the federal benchmark—Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta—approximately 90 percent of direct proceeds are returned to residents of those provinces through Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments. Most households receive more in CAI payments than the costs they face from the federal price on pollution.In 2022-23, these payments mean a family of four receives $745 in Ontario, $832 in Manitoba, $1,101 in Saskatchewan, and $1,079 in Alberta. In addition, families in rural and small communities are eligible to receive an extra 10 percent.  Climate Action Incentive payments started to be delivered as quarterly payments in July of this year instead of a refundable credit claimed annually on personal income tax returns.With respect to the application of the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST), the GST/HST is calculated on the final amount charged for a good or service. The general rule that was adopted at the inception of the GST, under the Mulroney government, and carried over for the HST, is that this final amount includes other taxes, levies, and charges that apply to the good or service and are generally embedded in the final price. This longstanding approach to calculating the GST/HST ensures that tax is applied evenly across goods and services consumed in Canada. It also makes it easier for vendors to calculate the amount of tax payable, for consumers to understand, and for the Canada Revenue Agency to administer.High inflation is a global phenomenon, driven by the impacts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which have led to sharply higher food and energy prices, and persistent impacts from supply chain disruptions and the pandemic. In Canada, rising housing-related prices have primarily contributed to the portion of inflation driven by domestic factors.On the demand side, the Bank of Canada has begun tightening monetary policy, while the government continues to move forward with withdrawing COVID supports that are no longer necessary, while committing to reducing the debt-to-GDP ratio over the medium term. Indeed, the IMF projects that Canada will have the fastest pace of deficit reduction in the G7 by next year. In addition, as announced in Budget 2022, the government is taking measured and appropriate steps to moderate spending through the launch of a comprehensive Strategic Policy Review with a target of finding savings of $6 billion over five years, and $3 billion annually by 2026-27.On the supply side, to keep inflation expectations in check, the government is taking action to boost the economy’s supply capacity. The investment in Early Learning and Child Care, which is expected to yield a material increase in labour-force participation, is one important example. Budget 2022 redoubled the focus on expanding the economy’s capacity with investments to grow and maintain our talented and diverse workforce through immigration and skills development; facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy; drive innovation and business growth; and make our cities more competitive by expanding the supply of housing. To help with affordability challenges, the government is implementing targeted investments to support Canadians, such as:
  • Making an historic investment of $30 billion over five years to build a Canada-wide early learning and child care system in collaboration with provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners.
  • Investing $938 million to provide dental care to uninsured Canadians with a family income of less than $90,000 annually, starting with children under 12 this year. The Canada Dental Benefit would provide families with direct payments totaling up to $1,300 per child over the next two years (up to $650 per year) to cover the cost of dental care for their children under 12.
  • Providing $1.7 billion in new support for low-income workers this year by enhancing the Canada Workers Benefit. A modest-income couple could receive up to $2,400 more this year and a single worker up to $1,200 more.
  • Providing $2.5 billion in additional targeted support for low- and modest-income Canadians by doubling the GST credit for six months. Couples with two children would receive up to an extra $467 and single Canadians without children would receive up to an extra $234. 
  • Providing a one-time tax-free payment of $500 to nearly two million qualifying Canadians who are struggling with the cost of rent. This federal benefit would be in addition to the Canada Housing Benefit currently co-funded and delivered by provinces and territories, and would be available to applicants with an adjusted net income below $35,000 for families, or below $20,000 for individuals, who pay at least 30 percent of their income on rent.
  • Implementing a ten percent increase to the Old Age Security pension for seniors age 75 and over in July 2022, which will provide additional benefits of over $800 to full pensioners in the first year.
Importantly, key government benefits are also adjusted for inflation over time, including, among others, Old Age Security, the Guaranteed Income Supplement, the Canada Child Benefit, and the GST Credit.
Carbon taxOil and gasPipeline transportation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 14, 2023441-01863441-01863 (Foreign affairs)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 31, 2023December 14, 2023June 23, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAUL CHIANG, M.P.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada.Immigration officers examine foreign charges and convictions to determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted of that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents, such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, applicants may be eligible for relief, on a case-by-case basis, using mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive commercial, institutional and people-to-people ties.(1) The maintenance of Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, as expressed through the One Country, Two Systems framework, is a high priority for the Government of Canada. Under this framework, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. Canada remains committed to supporting Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy within the One Country, Two Systems framework, and to working with international partners to advance the goal of a free, stable and prosperous Hong Kong where human rights and fundamental freedoms under the Basic Law are guaranteed. We will continue to monitor developments in Hong Kong closely, including those relating to the territory’s judicial system, and reserve the right to undertake appropriate action in response to future developments.(4) In advance of the imposition of the National Security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on May 22, 2020, expressing deep concern over proposals to introduce national security legislation in Hong Kong. Another statement was issued with Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States on May 28, 2020, reiterating concerns over the anticipated introduction of the National Security Law. On June 17, 2020, Canada joined its G7 partners to release a joint statement urging China to reconsider its decision.Following the imposition and implementation of the National Security Law, Canada has worked in concert with international partners to support the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Hong Kong residents and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the Basic Law and the One Country, Two Systems framework. Canada also announced new immigration initiatives for Hong Kong and has sought to complement and align these initiatives with measures taken by our likeminded partners.Subsequently, following the adoption by the National People’s Congress of a package of changes to the electoral system in Hong Kong in March 2021, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union, also released a joint statement expressing grave concerns at the Chinese authorities’ decision. The joint statement made it clear such a decision strongly indicates that the authorities in mainland China are determined to eliminate dissenting voices and opinions in Hong Kong, while also stifling political pluralism, contrary to the aim of moving towards universal suffrage as set out in the Basic Law.The wider chilling effects of the National Security Law and the growing restrictions on freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, which are being felt across civil society is deeply concerning. On December 20, 2021 Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as the Foreign Ministers of the G7, noting the outcome of the Legislative Council elections in Hong Kong, issued separate statements expressing grave concern over the erosion of democratic elements of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s electoral system. On February 17, 2022, Canada and 21 other members of the Media Freedom Coalition issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern at the Chinese authorities’ attacks on freedom of the press and their suppression of independent local media in Hong Kong. In September, 2023, Canada co-sponsored an event at the UN in Geneva on the impact of the National Security Law on media freedom in Hong Kong.Canada, along with Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States also all publicly expressed concerns and condemned the Hong Kong authorities’ issuance of arrest warrants and international bounties for eight pro-democracy advocates living overseas. The National Security Law has no jurisdiction in applying the law within our borders and we will not waver in standing up for those who are targeted simply for exercising their rights peacefully.While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 17, 2022441-00734441-00734 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 4, 2022November 17, 2022November 22, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas. The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits. The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics. The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors. The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less isolated areas of the country. The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems. The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging. Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion. It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system.It is important that the Government of Canada receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 30, 2022441-00182441-00182 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABFebruary 14, 2022March 30, 2022November 22, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas.  The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits.  The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics.  The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors.  The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less isolated areas of the country.  The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems.  The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging.  Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion.  It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system. It is important that the Government receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 10, 2022441-00284441-00284 (Taxation)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 10, 2022November 22, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The towns of Fox Creek and Swan Hills are rural and remote communities located in northern Alberta;
  • Extended travel times, heating costs and other expenses makes life more expensive in these communities;
  • The residents of Fox Creek and Swan Hills have to travel great distances to access groceries and shopping centres;
  • The intermediate prescribed zone in Alberta runs across an arbitrary geographical line and fails to consider other factors including access to other communities and cost of living; and
  • Neither Fox Creek and Swan Hills are a part of the prescribed northern or intermediate zones of Alberta. Therefore, the residents are unable to access the Northern resident's deductions.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1) Include Fox Creek and Swan Hills as communities within the prescribed intermediate zone; and2) Allow the residents of these communities to claim residency deductions for living in northern Alberta.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government recognizes the challenges facing those who live in northern or remote regions. The intent of the Northern Residents Deduction is to assist Canada’s northern and isolated regions in drawing skilled labour to their communities by providing recognition for the additional costs faced by residents of these areas.The current zonal system of tax benefits for northern residents was established following an extensive review of the former community-based system by the Task Force on Tax Benefits for Northern and Isolated Areas.  The Task Force held extensive consultations across the country and concluded that determining eligibility for the tax deductions for residents of northern and isolated areas on a community-by-community basis was arbitrary and divisive – residents of neighbouring communities were being treated differently for tax purposes, even though they often shared common workplaces, services, and cultural and recreational facilities.In October 1989, the Task Force recommended replacing the community-by-community approach with a zonal approach, where only communities within a “Northern Zone” would qualify for tax benefits.  The boundaries of the Northern Zone were delineated with a view to ensuring that communities in the zone had similar characteristics.  The Task Force used objective criteria to compare communities on the basis of isolation, nordicity, community characteristics, and environmental factors.  The Task Force also attempted to minimize border delineation problems by having as much separation as possible between qualifying and non-qualifying communities. 
  • For example, the Task Force considered the distance of a community from the nearest urban centre with a population of at least 10,000. Communities at least 500 kilometers from such an urban centre, or with no road access, were scored as the most remote.
The Task Force recommended a Northern Zone and, following further consultations, an Intermediate Zone was added to bridge the gap between the Northern Zone and the less isolated areas of the country.  The approach used by the Task Force to design the Northern Zone was also applied in developing the Intermediate Zone: the same ranking system was used, and efforts were made to minimize border problems.  The new system of Northern Benefits took effect starting in 1991.It was recognized that the Intermediate Zone, in relation to the Northern Zone, covers regions in which the communities are characterized as being more populated, in greater proximity and less homogeneous, thereby making the task of setting borders more challenging.  Given this reality, regardless of where the borders are set, there would inevitably be communities across the country that would be disappointed with their exclusion.  It was determined that the final border design incorporated fair trade-offs in difficult circumstances that were deemed workable in a broad-based, national tax system. It is important that the Government receive the views of Canadians on the tax system. This helps to focus our efforts on improvements to ensure that the tax system is fair and effective.
AlbertaNorthern residents deduction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 16, 2022441-00327441-00327 (Business and trade)JamieSchmaleHaliburton—Kawartha Lakes—BrockConservativeONMarch 31, 2022May 16, 2022December 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights, labour and environmental standards and has in place a variety of initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business practice abroad.Canada is party to a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights, including conventions addressing situations of child labour and forced labour. The Government continues to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements, enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Sanctions or penalties could be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. The National Strategy is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. As part of this National Strategy, the Government aims to encourage industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour in government procurement supply chains.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their sub-contractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that it can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the forced labour prohibition in the Customs Tariff.In January 2021, Canada announced several trade measures to address human rights abuses, including forced labour involving Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang. These include: a specialized Xinjiang integrity declaration for Canadian companies; a business advisory on Xinjiang-related entities; enhanced advice to Canadian businesses; export controls; enhanced awareness raising for responsible business conduct related to Xinjiang; and a study on forced labour and supply chain risks, which is now published on Global Affairs Canada’s website.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in their operations, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (RBC). The Government of Canada endorses and promotes internationally respected guidelines, principles, and standards on RBC, including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (https://www.oecd.org/corporate/mne/), the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (https://www.unglobalcompact.org/library/2) and the ILO Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (https://www.ilo.org/global/lang--en/index.htm).In terms of remedy, the Government of Canada provides two dispute-resolution mechanisms: Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for RBC, and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE).  The NCP offers dispute resolution for companies operating in any sector for a wide range of issues including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery both in Canada or abroad. The NCP can also address complaints directed towards the domestic operations of Canadian companies. In addition, the CORE can review complaints for alleged human rights abuse by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil, gas and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies involved in a dispute-resolution process will participate in good faith. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of, or follow-up to the review process with either the NCP or the CORE, recommendations can be made to implement trade measures such as the withdrawal of enhanced trade advocacy support and recommending to Export Development Canada that they decline to provide future financial support to the company.The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. They are an effective and accessible alternative to judicial resolutions without precluding a party from engaging in other fora. While supply chain legislation is a complex endeavour, policy work is underway to examine legislative elements appropriate for the Canadian context, and which can complement initiatives already in place. The Government’s commitment to upholding human rights and addressing exploitation in global supply chains is reflected in the mandate letter commitment to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from the supply chains of Canadian businesses and to ensure that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses. In addition, the Government published a What We Heard Report (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/reports/what-we-heard-forced-labour-global-supply-chain.html), on March 11, 2022, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and share any additional feedback (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/consultation-supply-chains.html) by April 8, 2022. The Government will continue to consider the results of consultations moving forward as it advances on this mandate commitment and complementary measures to tackle these important issues.
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 24, 2022441-00152441-00152 (Social affairs and equality)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCFebruary 8, 2022March 24, 2022December 8, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas every year, an estimated 235,000 people in Canada experience homelessness; and Whereas the Government of Canada's commitment to reduce homelessness by 50% over 10 years would still leave 117,500 Canadians homeless each year. Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to take immediate action by:1. Officially recognizing that housing is a human right; and 2. Adopt M-147 to develop a plan to end and prevent homelessness in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): SORAYA MARTINEZ FERRADAEvery Canadian has a right to a safe and affordable place to call home. One of the most important roles of our government during this pandemic has been to support vulnerable Canadians, including those experiencing or at-risk of homelessness.As part of the National Housing Strategy, the Government announced an investment of $2.2 billion over 10 years to prevent and reduce homelessness, and launched Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy in 2019. Since March 2020, the Government has announced a total of $1.3 billion in additional funding for Reaching Home to support communities in addressing the needs of people experiencing or at-risk of homelessness in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.In 2016, an estimated 27,000 individuals experienced chronic homelessness (i.e., those who used a shelter for at least six months in the past year, and/or accessed a shelter at least once in each of the last three years). Under the National Housing Strategy, the Government of Canada set a target to reduce chronic homelessness nationally by 50% by 2027-28 from this 2016 baseline. Since then, the Government has introduced an even more aggressive commitment on this front. As announced in the 2021 Speech from the Throne, the government indicated its commitment to ending chronic homelessness in its entirety.Funding delivered through Reaching Home will support this critical work. Through Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy, the Government of Canada:
  • Provides funding directly to specific communities through the Designated Communities, Indigenous Homelessness, Rural and Remote Homelessness and Territorial Homelessness streams. Financial support is provided to 64 Designated Communities (urban centres), the three territorial capitals, 30 Indigenous communities, and rural and remote communities across Canada to support their efforts in preventing and reducing homelessness. It also makes funding available to Indigenous partners to support distinctions-based approaches to homelessness services. Funding is also available to support innovation in the sector;
  • Introduced a new outcomes-based approach to give communities greater flexibility to identify, test, and apply innovative solutions and evidence-based practices to achieve results for vulnerable Canadians; and,
  • Introduced coordinated access as a program priority. Coordinated access will help communities shift toward a more coordinated and systems-based approach to addressing homelessness.
To inform the development of Reaching Home, the Government initiated consultation and engagement processes:
  • The Government of Canada consulted with stakeholders, provinces, territories, Indigenous partners, and people with lived experience of homelessness on how to modernize programming to better prevent and reduce homelessness across Canada. These consultations were guided by the work of an Advisory Committee on Homelessness chaired by Parliamentary Secretary Adam Vaughan (Housing and Urban Affairs) and comprised of 13 experts from across the country representing regional, cultural and linguistic duality as well as those with lived experience of homelessness. The Advisory Committee on Homelessness held 10 roundtables across the country in both official languages. In addition to roundtables, the Advisory Committee participated in site visits with local service providers to talk to frontline workers and their clients on how the Government might better support local efforts to address homelessness.
  • The Government also launched an online feedback survey that was open from July 17 to September 15, 2017 seeking input from all Canadians and organizations with ideas and suggestions on how to prevent and reduce homelessness in Canada.
  • The findings from these consultations were published in both the Advisory Committee on Homelessness’ Final Report and in the Homelessness Partnering Strategy What We Heard Report, which were publicly released on May 18, 2018. 
We know there is more work to do, and that is why we will continue to make important investments into housing and homelessness. Since the launch of Reaching Home in 2019, we have continued to engage regularly with key stakeholders and partners, including communities and funding recipients, national and regional organizations from the housing and homelessness sector, Indigenous organizations and leaders, provinces and territories, and people with lived experience of homelessness. These engagements inform the development of federal homelessness policy design and programming on an ongoing basis.The government will never stop working to ensure that individuals experiencing or at-risk of homelessness receive the support they need, and to end chronic homeless in Canada once and for all.
Response by the Minister of Housing and Diversity and InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Soraya Martinez FerradaThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners from Courtenay-Alberni for sharing their views on the importance of affordable housing. Every Canadian has a right to a safe and affordable place to call home. That is why our government introduced Canada’s first-ever National Housing Strategy (NHS), a more than $72 billion ten-year plan to help ensure Canadians get the housing they need. Since 2015, we have invested nearly $30 billion to support, create and repair almost 480,000 thousand homes.In 2019, our government passed the National Housing Strategy Act (NHS Act) into law. This was a landmark initiative because for the first time ever, the federal government legislated the recognition of housing as a human right. The NHS Act binds the government to “develop and maintain a national housing strategy that furthers its housing policy, taking into account key principles of a human rights-based approach to housing”. The NHS Act declares that the housing government’s housing policy will:
  • recognize that the right to adequate housing is a fundamental human right affirmed in international law;
  • recognize that housing is essential to the inherent dignity and well-being of the person and to building sustainable and inclusive communities;
  • support improved housing outcomes for the people of Canada; and
  • further the progressive realization of the right to adequate housing as recognized in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
The NHS Act also requires that the government establish and National Housing Council and appoint a Federal Housing Advocate.
  • The National Housing Council  provides advice to the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, including on the effectiveness of the National Housing Strategy, with the aim of improving housing outcomes. The members of the National Housing Council were appointed on November 22, 2020. For more information on the members and the mandate of the National Housing Council, please visit https://www.placetocallhome.ca/national-housing-council.
  • The Federal Housing Advocate monitors the implementation of the government’s housing policy and its progress in meeting goals and timelines set out in the NHS. On February 4, 2022, the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion announced that Marie-Josée Houle will be Canada’s first Federal Housing Advocate for a 3-year term.
The NHS Act provides important opportunities for persons experiencing housing needs or homelessness and communities affected by systemic housing issues to have their voices heard through the Federal Housing Advocate, the National Housing Council.Our government is committed to working in collaboration with the National Housing Council and the Federal Housing Advocate to ensure the right to a safe and affordable place to call home becomes a reality for all Canadians.   
Civil and human rightsHomelessness and homelessSocial housing
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 25, 2022441-00158441-00158 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 9, 2022March 25, 2022December 8, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Foreign charges and convictions are examined to see whether they would have been an offence under Canadian laws if they had occurred in Canada.Immigration officers determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted for that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents—such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, they may consider, on a case-by-case basis, using relief mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive commercial, institutional and people-to-people ties.(1) The maintenance of Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, as expressed through the One Country, Two Systems framework, is a high priority for the Government of Canada. Under this framework, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. Canada remains committed to supporting Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy within the One Country, Two Systems framework, and to working with international partners to advance the goal of a free, stable and prosperous Hong Kong where human rights and fundamental freedoms under the Basic Law are guaranteed. We will continue to monitor developments in Hong Kong closely, including those relating to the territory’s judicial system, and reserve the right to undertake appropriate action in response to future developments.(4) In advance of the imposition of the National Security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on May 22, 2020, expressing deep concern over proposals to introduce national security legislation in Hong Kong. Another statement was issued with Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States on May 28, 2020, reiterating concerns over the anticipated introduction of the National Security Law. On June 17, 2020, Canada joined its G7 partners to release a joint statement urging China to reconsider its decision.Following the imposition and implementation of the National Security Law, Canada has worked in concert with international partners to support the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Hong Kong residents and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the Basic Law and the One Country, Two Systems framework. Canada also announced new immigration initiatives for Hong Kong and has sought to complement and align these initiatives with measures taken by our likeminded partners.Subsequently, following the adoption by the National People’s Congress of a package of changes to the electoral system in Hong Kong in March 2021, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union, also released a joint statement expressing grave concerns at the Chinese authorities’ decision. The joint statement made it clear such a decision strongly indicates that the authorities in mainland China are determined to eliminate dissenting voices and opinions in Hong Kong, while also stifling political pluralism, contrary to the aim of moving towards universal suffrage as set out in the Basic Law.The wider chilling effects of the National Security Law and the growing restrictions on freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, which are being felt across civil society is deeply concerning. On December 20, 2021 Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as the Foreign Ministers of the G7, noting the outcome of the Legislative Council elections in Hong Kong, issued separate statements expressing grave concern over the erosion of democratic elements of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s electoral system. On February 17, 2022, Canada and 21 other members of the Media Freedom Coalition issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern at the Chinese authorities’ attacks on freedom of the press and their suppression of independent local media in Hong Kong.While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00138441-00138 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 3, 2022March 21, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas, Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Whereas, tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;Whereas, in August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;Whereas, the Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post-2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi`s maternity ward in May 2020 or the targeted attacks in Behsud (Maidan Wardak province), Jibrail (Herat) and Jalalabad (Nangarhar) from January to March of 2021;Whereas, Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban;Whereas, Afghanistan remains one of the largest recipients of Canada's international financial assistance;Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide. 2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day. 3. Support Bill C-287 to ensure that all development assistance sent from Canada to Afghanistan is contributing to the peace and security of the region for all peoples.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan. Canada denounced the tragic attack on May 8, 2021, against a girls’ high school in Kabul, which claimed the lives of 85 people, mostly young Hazara girls. Attacks such as this are a visible demonstration of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, forced conversions and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and prosecution of the Hazara population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again. The determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must however be done by a competent international or national court or tribunal, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to which Canada is a party.Canada has repeatedly shared its concerns on the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances. With the Taliban’s return to power, Canada recognizes that Afghanistan is at a pivotal moment, and is closely monitoring developments on the ground. One of Canada’s foreign policy priorities is to ensure the respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that all ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.In 2021, the Government of Canada announced a total of $133 million in humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan. Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan and Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups over the past two decades. Canada is exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders and remote monitoring activities of the human rights situation by human rights bodies from outside of Afghanistan. Going forward, receiving unbiased and verified accounts of human rights atrocities will be crucial for the international community’s decision-making around its future engagement with the Taliban.On August 13, 2021, Canada announced a special humanitarian program to focus on particularly vulnerable Afghan nationals, including religious and ethnic minorities. Canada’s special immigration program has already brought thousands of Afghans, including Hazaras, to Canada, and teams across the world continue working to bring many more Afghans to safety.
AfghanistanGenocideHazarasInternational development and aid
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 6, 2022441-00249441-00249 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABMarch 23, 2022May 6, 2022June 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: coercion, intimidation, or other forms of pressure intended to force physicians and healthcare workers and health institutions to become parties in assisted suicide or euthanasia either directly or through effective referral is a violation of fundamental freedoms of conscience;Whereas, conscience protections for medical professionals are necessary for patients to access their right to a second opinion;Whereas, during testimony at the Special Joint Committee for Physician Assisted Dying, witnesses stated that the protection of conscience should be included in the government's legislative response to Carter v. Canada (AG);Whereas, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) confirmed that conscience protections for physicians and healthcare workers would not affect access to assisted suicide or euthanasia because over 24,000 physicians would be willing to do it;Whereas, s.2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects freedom of conscience;Therefore, we the undersigned, call upon the Parliament of Canada to enshrine in the Criminal Code the protection of conscience for physicians and healthcare workers from coercion or intimidation to provide or refer for assisted suicide or euthanasia.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex issue and many Canadians have deeply held views on the subject. On March 17, 2021, Former Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying) (S.C. 2021, c.2), received Royal Assent. Former Bill C-7 responded to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime. Conscience rights of health care providers and institutions are not matters that fall under the federal criminal law power. Nevertheless, the Government is committed to respecting the personal convictions of health care providers. Nothing in the CriminalCode compels a health care provider to provide or assist in the provision of MAID. This is already expressly stated under subsection 241.2(9) of the Criminal Code.The petition calls on Parliament to ensure that medical practitioners and health care institutions are free from coercion or intimidation in relation to medical assistance in dying. Whether medical practitioners can refuse to provide or refer for MAID, and that healthcare institutions can refuse to permit it on their premises, are also matters of provincial responsibility. No province or territory currently compels practitioners to provide MAID. However, provinces and territories could adopt policies requiring “effective referrals” which, in the MAID context, means referring the person, in good faith, to a practitioner who does not object to MAID.A provincial or territorial law or regulation that affects the conscience rights of providers can be challenged under the Charter, as was the effective referral policy of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario in 2018-2019, which applies to MAID. The Ontario Court of Appeal agreed that Ontario’s effective referral policy infringes on practitioners’ Charter-protected freedom of religion, but upheld the policy as a reasonable limit of religious freedom.
Caregivers and health care professionalsFreedom of conscience and religionMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00016441-00016 (Justice)GlenMotzMedicine Hat—Cardston—WarnerConservativeABNovember 29, 2021January 31, 2022June 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: coercion, intimidation, or other forms of pressure intended to force physicians and healthcare workers and health institutions to become parties in assisted suicide or euthanasia either directly or through effective referral is a violation of fundamental freedoms of conscience;Whereas, conscience protections for medical professionals are necessary for patients to access their right to a second opinion;Whereas, during testimony at the Special Joint Committee for Physician Assisted Dying, witnesses stated that the protection of conscience should be included in the government's legislative response to Carter v. Canada (AG);Whereas, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) confirmed that conscience protections for physicians and healthcare workers would not affect access to assisted suicide or euthanasia because over 24,000 physicians would be willing to do it;Whereas, s.2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects freedom of conscience;Therefore, we the undersigned, call upon the Parliament of Canada to enshrine in the Criminal Code the protection of conscience for physicians and healthcare workers from coercion or intimidation to provide or refer for assisted suicide or euthanasia.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex issue and many Canadians have deeply held views on the subject. On March 17, 2021, Former Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying) (S.C. 2021, c.2), received Royal Assent. Former Bill C-7 responded to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime. Conscience rights of health care providers and institutions are not matters that fall under the federal criminal law power. Nevertheless, the Government is committed to respecting the personal convictions of health care providers. Nothing in the CriminalCode compels a health care provider to provide or assist in the provision of MAID. This is already expressly stated under subsection 241.2(9) of the Criminal Code.The petition calls on Parliament to ensure that medical practitioners and health care institutions are free from coercion or intimidation in relation to medical assistance in dying. Whether medical practitioners can refuse to provide or refer for MAID, and that healthcare institutions can refuse to permit it on their premises, are also matters of provincial responsibility. No province or territory currently compels practitioners to provide MAID. However, provinces and territories could adopt policies requiring “effective referrals” which, in the MAID context, means referring the person, in good faith, to a practitioner who does not object to MAID.A provincial or territorial law or regulation that affects the conscience rights of providers can be challenged under the Charter, as was the effective referral policy of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario in 2018-2019, which applies to MAID. The Ontario Court of Appeal agreed that Ontario’s effective referral policy infringes on practitioners’ Charter-protected freedom of religion, but upheld the policy as a reasonable limit of religious freedom.
Caregivers and health care professionalsFreedom of conscience and religionMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 20, 2022441-00370441-00370 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 6, 2022May 20, 2022June 11, 2021Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas, Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Whereas, tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;Whereas, in August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;Whereas, the Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post-2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi`s maternity ward in May 2020 or the targeted attacks in Behsud (Maidan Wardak province), Jibrail (Herat) and Jalalabad (Nangarhar) from January to March of 2021;Whereas, Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban;Whereas, Afghanistan remains one of the largest recipients of Canada's international financial assistance;Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide. 2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day. 3. Support Bill C-287 to ensure that all development assistance sent from Canada to Afghanistan is contributing to the peace and security of the region for all peoples.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan. Canada denounced the tragic attack on May 8, 2021, against a girls’ high school in Kabul, which claimed the lives of 85 people, mostly young Hazara girls. Attacks such as this are a visible demonstration of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, forced conversions and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and prosecution of the Hazara population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again. The determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must however be done by a competent international or national court or tribunal, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to which Canada is a party.Canada has repeatedly shared its concerns on the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances.Canada recognizes that Afghanistan is at a pivotal moment, and is closely monitoring developments on the ground. One of Canada’s foreign policy priorities is to ensure the respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that all ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.Since August 2021, Canada has allocated $106 million in humanitarian assistance to respond to the needs of vulnerable populations in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries. This includes $56 million announced on December 21, 2021. Canada is supporting a multi-sectoral humanitarian response across Afghanistan, including a particular emphasis on the provision of life-saving food and nutrition assistance.Canada continues to respond through experienced humanitarian partners, such as United Nations agencies both inside Afghanistan and in neighbouring countries to address the needs of the most vulnerable. For example, with Canadian support, humanitarian partners provided 8.9 million people with food assistance and treatment for acute malnutrition to over 230,000 children under the age of five inside Afghanistan in the last four months of 2021.Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan and Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups over the past two decades. Canada is exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders and remote monitoring activities of the human rights situation by human rights bodies from outside of Afghanistan. Going forward, receiving unbiased and verified accounts of human rights atrocities will be crucial for the international community’s decision-making around its future engagement with the Taliban.On August 13, 2021, Canada announced a special humanitarian program to focus on particularly vulnerable Afghan nationals, including religious and ethnic minorities. Canada’s special immigration program has already brought thousands of Afghans, including Hazaras, to Canada, and teams across the world continue working to bring many more Afghans to safety.
AfghanistanGenocideHazarasInternational development and aid
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 24, 2022441-00143441-00143 (Justice)KellyBlockCarlton Trail—Eagle CreekConservativeSKFebruary 8, 2022March 24, 2022June 13, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: coercion, intimidation, or other forms of pressure intended to force physicians and healthcare workers and health institutions to become parties in assisted suicide or euthanasia either directly or through effective referral is a violation of fundamental freedoms of conscience;Whereas, conscience protections for medical professionals are necessary for patients to access their right to a second opinion;Whereas, during testimony at the Special Joint Committee for Physician Assisted Dying, witnesses stated that the protection of conscience should be included in the government's legislative response to Carter v. Canada (AG);Whereas, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) confirmed that conscience protections for physicians and healthcare workers would not affect access to assisted suicide or euthanasia because over 24,000 physicians would be willing to do it;Whereas, s.2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects freedom of conscience;Therefore, we the undersigned, call upon the Parliament of Canada to enshrine in the Criminal Code the protection of conscience for physicians and healthcare workers from coercion or intimidation to provide or refer for assisted suicide or euthanasia.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex issue and many Canadians have deeply held views on the subject. On March 17, 2021, Former Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying) (S.C. 2021, c.2), received Royal Assent. Former Bill C-7 responded to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime. Conscience rights of health care providers and institutions are not matters that fall under the federal criminal law power. Nevertheless, the Government is committed to respecting the personal convictions of health care providers. Nothing in the CriminalCode compels a health care provider to provide or assist in the provision of MAID. This is already expressly stated under subsection 241.2(9) of the Criminal Code.The petition calls on Parliament to ensure that medical practitioners and health care institutions are free from coercion or intimidation in relation to medical assistance in dying. Whether medical practitioners can refuse to provide or refer for MAID, and that healthcare institutions can refuse to permit it on their premises, are also matters of provincial responsibility. No province or territory currently compels practitioners to provide MAID. However, provinces and territories could adopt policies requiring “effective referrals” which, in the MAID context, means referring the person, in good faith, to a practitioner who does not object to MAID.A provincial or territorial law or regulation that affects the conscience rights of providers can be challenged under the Charter, as was the effective referral policy of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario in 2018-2019, which applies to MAID. The Ontario Court of Appeal agreed that Ontario’s effective referral policy infringes on practitioners’ Charter-protected freedom of religion, but upheld the policy as a reasonable limit of religious freedom.
Caregivers and health care professionalsFreedom of conscience and religionMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00682441-00682 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022April 19, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, Ethiopia has experienced alarming bouts of unrest and violence in the last year.Whereas, conflict has engulfed the Tigray region of Ethiopia leading to egregious human rights abuses and a humanitarian crisis.Whereas, humanitarian actors and independent journalists and researchers have almost no access to the effected regions.Whereas, Ethiopian and Eritrean federal armed forces, forces affiliated with the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF), and Ethiopian regional and militia forces, have all taken part in the conflict.Whereas, credible reports indicate that war crimes, such as the indiscriminate shelling of civilian towns and villages, extrajudicial killings, at least one largescale massacre, looting, and sexual violence, have all occurred in Tigray.Whereas, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with increasing reports of rising hunger, limited access to food and other life-saving assistance, and a collapsed healthcare system in the Tigray region.Whereas, Ethiopia is one of the largest recipients of Canada's international assistance.Whereas, elections are scheduled to take place in Ethiopia later this year.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Immediately call for an end to violence and for restraint from all sides/parties involved in the Tigray conflict.2. Immediately call for humanitarian access to the region and for independent monitoring to be allowed.3. Immediately call for international investigations into credible reports of war crimes and gross violations of human rights law.4. Engage directly and consistently with the Ethiopian and Eritrean Governments on this conflict.5. Promote short, medium, and long-term elections monitoring in Ethiopia.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is deeply concerned by the ongoing conflict in northern Ethiopia and continues to press for a cessation of hostilities, a negotiated political resolution to the conflict, and inclusive national dialogue to address the conflict’s root causes. Canada continues to register its alarm over violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law in northern Ethiopia and calls on all parties to stop the ongoing violations, to support accountability processes, and to ensure justice for victims and survivors.The Government of Canada continues to call upon all parties to the conflict to fulfill their obligation to allow and to facilitate safe rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to those in need throughout the conflict-affected areas. Canada has consistently called for an immediate end to the violations of international humanitarian law and human rights violations and abuses and continues to press parties to uphold their commitments under international human rights and humanitarian law. Canada provides funding for humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia, based on need. To date in 2022, Canada has provided $63.5 million in humanitarian assistance to address the needs of people affected by the crisis across Ethiopia, including in Tigray. This funding to UN agencies, the Red Cross, and NGOs is helping to provide food, treatment for acute malnutrition and other critical healthcare, access to safe water and sanitation, emergency shelter and essential household items, and protection services to populations affected by drought, conflict, and insecurity.The promotion and protection of human rights are an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Along with partners in the international community, Canada is shocked and dismayed by the grave violations of human rights law and of international humanitarian law taking place in Ethiopia. The Government of Canada is committed to standing up for human rights and striving for a world where the rights and freedoms of all people are protected and respected. Canada has also repeatedly and publicly called for the swift withdrawal of Eritrean forces from northern Ethiopia. On September 22, 2022, officials of the Government of Canada spoke at the UNHRC and denounced the resumption of hostilities in northern Ethiopia, urged all parties to cease violence immediately, respect human rights and implement accountability measures, and called for the immediate withdrawal of Eritrean Defence Forces.Canada was a major funder, with a contribution of $600,000, to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) joint investigation into the allegations of human rights violations and abuses, and serious violations of international humanitarian law committed by parties to the conflict. Canada continues to urge meaningful action towards the implementation of the OHCHR-EHRC report’s recommendations and to press the Government of Ethiopia to deliver on its commitments in this respect, including credible and transparent investigations to hold perpetrators accountable. Canada also encourages Ethiopia to collaborate with credible and independent international investigations, such as the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia (ICHREE).Canada found the conclusions of ICHREE’s September 19, 2022 report deeply troubling. The report found reasonable grounds to believe that violations of international humanitarian law- including extrajudicial killings, rape, sexual violence, and starvation of the civilian population as a method of warfare – have been committed in Ethiopia since November 2020. Canada expressed its deep concern through a tweet issued by the Global Affairs Canada corporate account on September 22, 2022.Canada is alarmed by the escalation of hostilities which began in August 2022, including the impact on civilians across northern Ethiopia. Canadian officials have conveyed this to the Government of Ethiopia, including in representations to the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Chief Justice, and parliamentarians. On August 26, 2022, the Government of Canada expressed its deep concern about the resumption of hostilities in northern Ethiopia through a tweet issued by the Global Affairs Canada corporate account, and called for parties to enter negotiations in good faith and provide unimpeded humanitarian access. In a statement on Ethiopia to the UNHRC on September 22, 2022, Canada deplored the resumption of hostilities. In its engagement with all parties to the conflict, Canada has reiterated its strong and ongoing commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution to the conflict, including African Union-led negotiations toward a peace agreement.The Government of Canada responded quickly to the conflict in northern Ethiopia by committing over $3.5 million in early 2021, to peace and stabilization programming, that focuses on increasing conflict resolution capacity and supporting conflict-sensitive, inclusive dialogue, with a particular focus on women.Since November 2021, the Prime Minister has spoken six times with Prime Minister Abiy to discuss the developments in northern Ethiopia, the importance of working toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and the need to contribute to a more united, peaceful, and prosperous Ethiopia. This includes an immediate cessation of hostilities, a political resolution, and an inclusive national dialogue process. The Prime Minister has underscored the importance of ensuring unhindered access for, and delivery of, humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict and has raised Canada’s concerns about human rights, including reports of discrimination against, and targeting of, ethnic Tigrayans and other minorities.The Government of Canada has consistently called for Eritrea’s immediate and full withdrawal from Ethiopia, including through public joint statements with likeminded countries. Canada’s former Ambassador to Sudan, who represents Canada to Eritrea, engaged with Eritrean officials in 2021, calling on them to withdraw Eritrean Defense Forces from northern Ethiopia. On September 20, 2022, a tweet issued from the Global Affairs Canada corporate account deplored the movement of Eritrean Defence Forces in northern Ethiopia and condemned the escalation of hostilities.Canada supports efforts underway in Ethiopia to implement democratic and economic reforms, and is working with the Government of Ethiopia to strengthen its capacity to uphold fundamental freedoms, and foster inclusive dialogue. Specifically, the Government of Canada funds programs which seek to strengthen Ethiopia’s democratic institutions and the conduct of free and fair elections, with a special focus on ensuring the participation of women, youth and ethnic groups, in the electoral process. Canada’s support for elections has included programming to support technical expertise, capacity building, and election observation. In February 2020, the Government of Canada contributed $1 million to help strengthen the capacity of the National Election Board of Ethiopia to conduct credible, inclusive and peaceful elections. In the 2021-2022 fiscal year, Canada’s Embassy in Ethiopia funded projects that supported marginalized groups’ outreach and advocacy with electoral candidates before the polls and conducted assessments of the pre-election and post-election periods from a human rights perspective.
Civil and human rightsElectoral observation missionsEthiopiaForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workers
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 13, 2022441-00823441-00823 (Public safety)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 31, 2022December 13, 2022November 12, 2020Petition to the Government of Canada We, the undersigned Citizens and Residents of Canada draw the attention of the Government of Canada to the following:
  • That highly damaging noise levels repeatedly reach the ears of firearm users despite the use of traditional hearing protection;
  • That section 7 of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms recognises an individual's right to personal health and safety;
  • That sound moderators are the only universally recognised health and safety device that has a criminal prohibition in Canada;
  • That, as affirmed in Bedford v. Canada at the Supreme Court of Canada, one cannot be prevented from taking reasonable steps to improve personal safety in a hazardous situation;
  • That the majority of G7 nations and many others have recognised the health and safety benefits involved, and allow the legal use of sound moderators by hunters and sport shooters;
  • That sound moderators reduce noise pollution and noise complaints in communities with shooting ranges, in rural and farm communities, and in areas used for recreational activities where hunting and target shooting is legal;
  • That sound moderators facilitate significantly increased humane husbandry of game animals, livestock, and pets as hunting companions;
  • That hearing damage is a significant quality of life and public health issue costing taxpayers millions annually.
THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Take a stand and empower Canadians to be responsible for their own health and safety by removing the prohibition of sound moderators from the Criminal Code of Canada;
  • Allow the legal acquisition, possession, and use of sound moderators on firearms by all licensed firearms users in Canada;
  • Call upon the provinces and territories to amend provincial and territorial prohibitions and allow the use of sound moderators while engaged in all legal hunting and sport shooting activities.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe Government believes in implementing effective measures with respect to firearms that prioritize public safety, while remaining mindful of the impact of such measures on firearms owners and businesses.Any device or contrivance designed or intended to muffle or stop the sound or report of a firearm has been unlawful in Canada since the early 1900s. These items are prescribed as prohibited devices in the Regulations Prescribing Certain Firearms and Other Weapons, Components and Parts of Weapons, Accessories, Cartridge Magazines, Ammunition and Projectiles as Prohibited or Restricted. Sound reduction or elimination diminishes the public’s ability to react to gun shots and makes it difficult for law enforcement to become aware of a possible criminal incident.                                                                Firearms owners can make use of other forms of hearing protection that are commonly available and that do not adversely impact public safety.
Gun controlHearing health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00022441-00022 (Indigenous affairs)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCDecember 1, 2021January 31, 2022March 10, 2020PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Canadian constitutional law is accountable to the human rights obligations outlined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples;
  • Canada has also committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action;
  • The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has called on Canada to:
    • immediately suspend work on the Coastal GasLink pipeline until free, prior, and informed consent is obtained from Indigenous Peoples;
    • Immediately cease the forced eviction of Wet'suwet'en Peoples;
    • Prohibit the use of lethal weapons against Indigenous Peoples and guarantee no force will be used against them;
    • Withdraw the RCMP and associated security and policing services, from traditional lands;
  • Hereditary Chiefs have the right to grant consent, or not, for activities on their territories; and,
  • The Coastal GasLink project has the potential to release massive amounts of methane through the extraction, transport, liquefaction and regasification processes
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Commit to upholding the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action by immediately:
    • Halting all existing and planned construction of the Coastal GasLink project on Wet'suwet'en territory;
    • Ordering the RCMP to dismantle their exclusion zone and stand down;
    • Schedule nation-to-nation talks between the Wet'suwet'en Nation and federal and provincial governments; and,
    • Prioritize the real implementation of UNDRIP.
Response by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jaime BattisteThe Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations (CIR) would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their interest in the Wet’suwet’en Nation and Coastal GasLink pipeline project. The Government endorsed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2016 and on June 21, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act received Royal Assent and immediately came into force.  Canada is in the process of implementing the Declaration.The former Minister of CIR and the former British Columbia Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation met with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs between February 27 and 29, 2020. These talks initially focused on two separate topics: the recognition of Wet’suwet’en Aboriginal rights and title throughout their territory, and the issues arising out of the Coastal GasLink project. These topics were discussed separately. The parties made the decision to keep the pipeline matter separate from rights and title discussions, as the pipeline remains entirely within the jurisdiction of British Columbia and therefore is most appropriately addressed bilaterally between Wet’suwet’en and the Province.Canada, British Columbia, and the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 14, 2020, which broadly recognizes Wet’suwet’en rights and title throughout the Yintah (traditional territory) and that Wet’suwet’en rights and title are held by Wet’suwet’en Houses under their traditional system of governance. Ongoing nation-to-nation talks are focused on exploring a path forward toward substantive agreements that would describe future governance, areas of jurisdiction, and the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title. The federal Government remains committed to reconciliation with all Indigenous Peoples, including the Wet’suwet’en Nation. Despite the recent escalation of protest and enforcement activities, CIR is engaged in regular and ongoing negotiations with Wet’suwet’en and British Columbia with respect to the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title within the territory.
Coastal GasLink Pipeline ProjectIndigenous rightsWet'suwet'en First Nation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00990441-00990 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01065441-01065 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023November 29, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00383441-00383 (Justice)PatKellyCalgary Rocky RidgeConservativeABApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00092441-00092 (Justice)BlaineCalkinsRed Deer—LacombeConservativeABDecember 15, 2021January 31, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00863441-00863 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 22, 2022January 30, 2023June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, it has been 17 years since the Chinese communist regime launched a persecution to "eradicate" Falun Gong a spiritual practice centred on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance;Whereas, millions of Falun Gong practitioners have been arbitrarily detained, including family members of Canadians. The mass extrajudicial imprisonment, forced labour, torture, rape, and killing along with hate propaganda have been reported by major human rights organizations;Whereas, an update report released in June 2016 by three reputable investigators David Kilgour, David Matas and Ethan Gutmann indicates that prisoners of conscience, primarily Falun Gong practitioners, have been killed on demand to fuel a massive state-run transplant industry, supplying most of the organs for an estimated tens of thousands transplants a year in Chinese hospitals since 2000;Whereas, the U.S. House of Representatives and European Parliament passed resolutions in June 2016 and December 2013 respectively condemning and calling for an immediate end to China's systematic and statesanctioned organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience, including Falun Gong. In February 2015, Canada's Parliamentary Subcommittee on International Human Rights unanimously passed a similar motion; andWhereas, since May 2015, over 200,000 Chinese citizens have filed criminal complaints against former Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin who orchestrated the persecution of Falun Gong.Therefore, we, the undersigned, request that the Canadian Parliament and government:
  • Establish measures to stop the Chinese regime's mass murder of innocent people for their organs, including but not limited to introducing Canadian legislation to ban organ tourism and criminalize those involved; and
  • Take every opportunity to call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits, public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, interventions and advocacy by its diplomatic missions, and outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on November 21, 2022.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities.On December 14, 2022, Bill S-223 regarding organ harvesting and trafficking, which parliamentarians have linked to Uyghurs and Falun Dafa practitioners in China, was adopted unanimously at third reading in the House of Commons by a vote of 324-0. Bill S-223 then received Royal Assent the following day. Bill S-223 will make it a criminal offence for a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident to go abroad to receive an organ taken from someone who did not give informed consent to the removal of the organ. Canada joins jurisdictions such as the UK, Italy, Israel, Belgium, Norway, Spain, and South Korea and Taiwan that have passed legislation to combat forced organ harvesting, organ transplant tourism, and organ trafficking.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The Government’s newly released Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) also directly outlines Canada’s approach to China. China’s rise as a global actor is reshaping the strategic outlook of every state in the region, including Canada. The third pillar of the IPS specifically invests in people, development, and the defense of human rights in the Indo Pacific region. Canada will never apologize for pursuing its national interests, which includes upholding global rules that govern human rights.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00982441-00982 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023July 17, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 8, 2023441-01338441-01338 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 25, 2023June 8, 2023May 18, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada.Immigration officers examine foreign charges and convictions to determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted for that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents, such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, applicants may be eligible for relief mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive commercial, institutional and people-to-people ties.(1) The maintenance of Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, as expressed through the One Country, Two Systems framework, is a high priority for the Government of Canada. Under this framework, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. Canada remains committed to supporting Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy within the One Country, Two Systems framework, and to working with international partners to advance the goal of a free, stable and prosperous Hong Kong where human rights and fundamental freedoms under the Basic Law are guaranteed. We will continue to monitor developments in Hong Kong closely, including those relating to the territory’s judicial system, and reserve the right to undertake appropriate action in response to future developments.(4) In advance of the imposition of the National Security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on May 22, 2020, expressing deep concern over proposals to introduce national security legislation in Hong Kong. Another statement was issued with Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States on May 28, 2020, reiterating concerns over the anticipated introduction of the National Security Law. On June 17, 2020, Canada joined its G7 partners to release a joint statement urging China to reconsider its decision.Following the imposition and implementation of the National Security Law, Canada has worked in concert with international partners to support the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Hong Kong residents and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the Basic Law and the One Country, Two Systems framework. Canada also announced new immigration initiatives for Hong Kong and has sought to complement and align these initiatives with measures taken by our likeminded partners.Subsequently, following the adoption by the National People’s Congress of a package of changes to the electoral system in Hong Kong in March 2021, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union, also released a joint statement expressing grave concerns at the Chinese authorities’ decision. The joint statement made it clear such a decision strongly indicates that the authorities in mainland China are determined to eliminate dissenting voices and opinions in Hong Kong, while also stifling political pluralism, contrary to the aim of moving towards universal suffrage as set out in the Basic Law.The wider chilling effects of the National Security Law and the growing restrictions on freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, which are being felt across civil society is deeply concerning. On December 20, 2021 Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as the Foreign Ministers of the G7, noting the outcome of the Legislative Council elections in Hong Kong, issued separate statements expressing grave concern over the erosion of democratic elements of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s electoral system. On February 17, 2022, Canada and 21 other members of the Media Freedom Coalition issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern at the Chinese authorities’ attacks on freedom of the press and their suppression of independent local media in Hong Kong.While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01476441-01476 (National defence and military operations)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMay 29, 2023August 16, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination produced its final report in early 2022;Whereas the report calls for clergy from religions which have a different view on gender and sexuality than the Department of National Defence to be banned as chaplains in the Canadian Armed Forces;Whereas the report slanders even mainstream Canadian religions as discriminatory, misogynist, and sexist;Whereas all Canadians, including members and chaplains of the Canadian Armed Forces, are entitled to the Charter-guaranteed right of freedom of religion;Whereas Canadian Armed Forces chaplains serve all members of the Forces without distinction on the basis of religion, gender, or sexual orientation; andWhereas discrimination on the basis of religion is wrong and offensive to Canadians.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Reject the recommendations on chaplaincy in the Canadian Armed Forces in the final report of the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination; and2. Affirm the right of all Canadians, including Canadian Armed Forces chaplains, to freedom of religion.
Response by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayIn April 2022, the Minister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination released a comprehensive set of recommendations to ensure Canada’s military is safe and welcoming for all. Work is underway to assess the implications of the Advisory Panel’s recommendations, including those on the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, and the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff is coordinating an analysis of each recommendation.The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service’s (RCChS) primary goal is the care of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, without exceptions. It is already the expectation that CAF chaplains uphold the values and ethos of the CAF, just like every other member of the military. When chaplains apply for their roles within the chaplaincy, they undergo a rigorous process to assess their ability to provide spiritual support within the context of CAF values. Anyone who successfully makes it through this assessment has demonstrated their ability to provide religious or spiritual counsel to CAF members of all or no faiths, without judgement or exception.To this end, the RCChS continues to embrace CAF values and ethos, and has taken significant steps in the past several years to strengthen its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For example, as of 2019, in order to better serve the CAF and represent the religious/spiritual diversity of Canadian society, the RCChS sought to include a wider number of traditions not previously represented in CAF chaplaincy. This resulted in the enrollment of chaplains from Sikh, Buddhist, and Humanist traditions. The RCChS also shifted from the historical requirement of “ordained” status to a more broadly defined status of “credentialed as a faith tradition leader.” In doing so, the RCChS has ensured wider opportunities for women from faith traditions where they cannot be ordained, but who meet qualification standards for CAF chaplaincy as credentialed faith tradition leaders. This is already the case for Roman Catholic and Muslim women, currently serving in the RCChS, and will now be an option for women from other faith traditions.To further promote diversity and inclusion, the RCChS has instituted several new advisor positions, including an Indigenous Advisor, 2SLGBTQi+ Advisor, Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Advisor, Gender Advisor, and Advisor to the Commander of Chief Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC) in an effort to raise awareness, educate, and innovate. These advisors play a critical role in providing strategic input and advice to ensure direction and guidance, and programs integrate diverse perspectives with a view to enhancing inclusive engagement on behalf of the RCChS. The CAF continues to take positive steps to ensure that the chaplaincy represents Canadian society and supports the needs of its broader membership.
Canadian ForcesChaplaincy services and chaplainsMinister’s Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism, Discrimination with a focus on anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism, LGBTQ2+ Prejudice, Gender Bias and White SupremacyReligious discrimination
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01645441-01645 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABSeptember 21, 2023November 3, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01536441-01536 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 13, 2023September 18, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00716441-00716 (Fisheries)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 28, 2022November 14, 2022May 9, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:A public survey done in 2011 found that 70% of British Columbians agree with the statement that, "wild Pacific salmon are as important to British Columbians as the French language is to Quebeckers"; The Fraser River sockeye run unexpectedly collapsed in 2009, with only 1 million of the expected 10 million salmon returning to spawn; This collapse prompted the Government of Canada to launch a comprehensive Federal Commission of Inquiry, headed by the Honourable Bruce Cohen and released in 2012, to investigate the cause of this catastrophic decline; Among the 75 recommendations stemming from Justice Cohen's inquiry were:
  • The Government of Canada should remove from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans mandate the promotion of salmon farming as an industry and farmed salmon as a product,
  • The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should explicitly consider proximity to migrating Fraser River sockeye when siting salmon farms, should consider relocating existing salmon farms that are too close to existing salmon runs, and should consider prohibiting net-pen salmon farming altogether, especially in the Discovery Islands,
  • Department of Fisheries and Oceans should encourage British Columbia to require users of pesticides in forestry and agriculture to record, and report annually to the province, the areas where pesticides were applied and the amounts used, and
  • To improve future sustainability of the Fraser River sockeye, the Government of Canada should champion, within Canada and internationally, reasonable steps to address the causes of warming waters and climate change; and
Years later, the recommendations made by Justice Cohen in the Inquiry have yet to be implemented. THEREFORE, YOUR PETITIONERS call upon the House of Commons to act on the precautionary principle and immediately implement all of the 75 recommendations made by Justice Cohen to save our salmon.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike KellowayThe Government of Canada recognizes the importance of the Cohen Commission’s recommendations and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), along with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), and the Province of British Columbia (BC), have now taken actions to address all 75 of the recommendations.Many of the Cohen recommendations are broad reaching, and consequently, acting on many of the recommendations is an ongoing task. Ongoing work on many of the Cohen recommendations continues, particularly across several key areas, such as salmon stock assessment, health status assessment, habitat protection and restoration, precautionary approach to salmon aquaculture, and fisheries management.Commitment to ongoing action is reflected in the Wild Salmon Policy 2018-2022 Implementation Plan which outlines specific activities and approaches led by the department over the last five years towards restoring and maintaining healthy and diverse Pacific salmon populations and their habitats. A five-year report of the Implementation Plan will be published by the end of 2022.Please see the 2018 Cohen Response Status Update Report and Annex  for more detail on DFO’s actions to date in response to the Cohen Commission recommendations and the Wild Salmon Policy 2018-2022 Implementation Plan. Additionally, the third Wild Salmon Policy Annual Report was released on February 4, 2022.Further, the Government of Canada recognizes that a bold and targeted response with concrete actions is required to address the historic declines facing Pacific salmon.. In response, the Pacific Salmon Strategy Initiative (PSSI) establishes a more comprehensive, transformative, and longer-term approach to support salmon rebuilding in the Pacific Region. Working collaboratively with Indigenous groups, partners and stakeholders, the main goal of this initiative is to conserve and restore Pacific salmon, and their habitats and ecosystems, across British Columbia and the Yukon. The PSSI’s four pillars are: conservation and stewardship; salmon enhancement; harvest transformation; and integration and collaboration.DFO has addressed the Cohen Commission’s Recommendation 3: “The Government of Canada should remove from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ mandate the promotion of salmon farming as an industry and farmed salmon as a product” as per the ‘Annex to the Cohen Response 2018 Status Update: recommendation response detail’ .Regarding the Cohen Commission’s Recommendation 15: “The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should explicitly consider proximity to migrating Fraser River sockeye when siting salmon farms” and Recommendation 17: “The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should apply revised siting criteria to all licensed salmon farm sites. Farms that no longer comply with siting criteria should be promptly removed or relocated to sites that comply with current siting criteria”, siting of aquaculture operations is a shared and harmonized process in BC, requiring a provincial crown tenure, a federal navigable waters permit, and a federal aquaculture licence. Aquaculture applications are submitted through a single portal, where the Government of BC considers siting through the lens of granting leases for provincial crown lands, Transport Canada considers siting related to safe navigation, and DFO considers siting relating to potential impacts to the aquatic environment. More specifically, DFO’s review process for siting salmon farms considers: potential impacts to fish, fish habitat and the environment; potential impacts to existing fisheries; and fish health and wild-farmed interactions, which includes consideration of the proximity to wild salmon migration routes.Licence conditions for aquaculture set out the specific operational and reporting requirements to which licence holders must adhere in order to operate legally and be in compliance with the Fisheries Act and associated regulations. They also contain provisions to ensure that aquaculture sites are operated in an environmentally sustainable manner that minimizes the risk to wild fish stocks and the marine resource.Recommendation 19 states: “On September 30, 2020, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans should prohibit net-pen salmon farming in the Discovery Islands (fish health sub-zone 3-2) unless he or she is satisfied that such farms pose at most a minimal risk of serious harm to the health of migrating Fraser River sockeye salmon. The minister’s decision should summarize the information relied on and include detailed reasons. The decision should be published on the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ website.” In response to this recommendation, the Department looked at the overall risk to Fraser River sockeye salmon from pathogens that can be found at Atlantic salmon farms. The Department completed risk assessments on nine known pathogens, assessing the risk of these pathogens coming from  aquaculture operations in the Discovery Islands area to Fraser River sockeye. It was concluded that each pathogen posed no more than a minimal risk to Fraser River sockeye salmon abundance and diversity under the current fish health management practices. DFO continues to update its understanding of pathogens and pests and adapt its management in response.Additionally, the Department is in the process of re-consulting with the seven First Nations in the Discovery Islands to develop a more complete understanding of their views and concerns with respect to the aquaculture sites in the area. These consultations will inform the Minister’s decision regarding re-issuance of the aquaculture licences in January 2023.The Department is also taking the next steps in the commitment to transition from open-net pen salmon aquaculture in BC’s coastal waters. We are committed to developing a responsible transition plan that protects wild Pacific salmon, the environment, and the economy. The transition plan will ensure that salmon marine finfish aquaculture is conducted in a manner that progressively minimizes or eliminates interactions between cultured and wild salmon.In developing the transition plan, DFO will rely on input from the Province of British Columbia, First Nations, industry, local governments, stakeholders, and British Columbians. The Department is committed to ensuring that the transition from open-net pen aquaculture is done in a manner that respects the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples.This next round of engagement is guided by a discussion framework, which outlines the vision for open-net pen transition in BC. Engagement will run until early 2023. Members of the public can participate by completing an online survey, which will be available until October 27; details are available on our Aquaculture engagement and consultations webpage. Other planned activities will include roundtables with Indigenous leaders, key stakeholders, and conservation organizations; bilateral meetings with local and provincial governments and national stakeholder groups; engagement sessions with First Nations; and targeted engagement with industry leaders. The feedback received will be instrumental in the development of the final transition plan, which is expected in spring 2023.In relation to the Cohen Commission’s Recommendation 54:“The Department of Fisheries and Oceans should encourage the Province of British Columbia:to require users of pesticides in forestry and agriculture to record, and report annually to the province, the areas where pesticides were applied and the amounts used;to develop and maintain a pesticide-use database (that includes information on location, volume / concentration, and timing of use) and make that information publicly available”BC has a system in place to monitor, report, and disseminate pesticide use. The province requires users to report pesticide use, and has the ability to provide information on total use. Standards of use are consistent with Health Canada requirements. As part of the Fisheries Protection Program, DFO will continue to coordinate and work with the Province of BC on areas of common interest.Both ECCC and DFO have taken action in response the Cohen Commission’s Recommendation 74: “To improve future sustainability of the Fraser River sockeye, the Government of Canada should champion, within Canada and internationally, reasonable steps to address the causes of warming waters and climate change.” DFO works to address climate change impacts in aquatic ecosystems as a part of an ECCC-led, whole-of-government effort. Through this work, the department conducts vulnerability assessments on Pacific species, including salmon, to warming waters and continues to monitor trends in sea surface temperature, oxygen levels, and ocean acidification in freshwater and marine areas. These monitoring data are important to understanding the causes of change and are used by DFO in studies to quantify the rate of change in freshwaters and marine waters inhabited by Pacific salmon.
Cohen CommissionFisheries policyFisheries stocksFraser RiverPacific fisheriesSockeye salmon
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01511441-01511 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 5, 2023July 19, 2023April 22, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 30, 2022441-00179441-00179 (Environment)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONFebruary 14, 2022March 30, 2022February 7, 2022Petition to the Member of Parliament for Bruce-Grey-Owen SoundWhereas:The negative impacts that TC Energy's project will have on our pristine water, our landscape, our community, our property values and our emotional well being must be addressed.We, the undersigned, concerned residents of the Municipality of Meaford and neighbouring towns, call upon all levels of government, Municipal, Provincial and Federal to stop TC Energy from building a Pumped Power Storage Plant on the shores of Georgian Bay at the Army Base in Meaford Ontario.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) conducts federal impact assessments of major projects pursuant to the Impact Assessment Act (the IAA). The federal process for assessments include the assessment of positive and negative environmental, economic, health and social effects.The Agency understands that TC Energy’s proposed hydroelectric pumped-storage plant would be subject to the IAA. The Agency is awaiting the submission of an acceptable initial description of the project by the proponent.Assessments by the Agency involve consultation with the public, Indigenous peoples, federal authorities and all other interested participants, including provincial officials.Further information on the Agency is available online at https://www.canada.ca/en/impact-assessment-agency.html.Questions on the Agency’s process can be directed to the Agency’s Ontario Region office via e-mail at iaac.ontarioregion-regiondontario.aeic@canada.ca.  
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayNational Defence manages more than 2,000,000 hectares of land and over 20,000 buildings across Canada. As a custodian of Crown land, National Defence is responsible for considering third-party access to its real property upon request.Situated on 7,685 hectares of land next to Georgian Bay, the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre Meaford (4 CDTC) is a training facility for the Regular and Reserve Forces. TC Energy has proposed the construction of a hydroelectric facility in the area, and subsequently requested access to 200 hectares of National Defence’s land in Meaford. The electricity generated by the proposed hydroelectric facility would be sold to the Ontario power grid.In July 2021, National Defence signed an Agreement in Principle with TC Energy which determined that the project can be operationally accommodated at 4 CDTC subject to assurances that its construction and operation will not cause negative impacts on Canadian Armed Forces operations, and that all necessary provincial and federal assessments are completed. The Agreement In Principle allows TC Energy to pursue an Impact Assessment under the federal Impact Assessment Act. The Impact Assessment will evaluate a wide range of potential issues including environmental, health, social, and economic impacts and benefits, as well as potential impacts on Indigenous peoples.Consultation and engagement will continue as the project proceeds through further assessments and regulatory approvals.National Defence has undertaken the following steps as part of its decision making process:
  • Initial feasibility testing and review:
    • In August 2020, National Defence approved a temporary access agreement to allow TC Energy to complete its engineering and environmental feasibility testing and studies at 4 CDTC Meaford. This follows a temporary access agreement that National Defence issued to TC Energy in May 2019.
    • In June 2019 and July 2021, National Defence notified local Indigenous groups that the temporary access agreement may be extended for further study, and that a review of TC Energy’s testing results will be conducted as a part of National Defence’s decision making process.
  • Internal Assessment and Public Consultations:
    • From May 2019 to September 2020, National Defence consulted Indigenous groups, municipalities, the provincial government, and external stakeholders. These consultations included an online forum and participation at three TC Energy town halls. During these consultations, National Defence heard concerns regarding the possible impact on the environment, the economy, community safety, health, as well as the importance of the land and its historical ties to community members. The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada will assess and review these concerns under the Impact Assessment process.
    • From 2019 to 2021, National Defence conducted its own comprehensive internal assessment to determine the project’s potential impact on operational readiness, personnel training, the environment, and Indigenous groups. The assessment raised potential concerns regarding the impact of the project on training and operations conducted at 4 CDTC. National Defence will continue to assess and update these concerns as the project evolves, and as results from the Impact Assessment are received.
    • In July 2021, following National Defence’s internal assessment, the department signed an Agreement In Principle with TC Energy, allowing the company to proceed to an Impact Assessment.
National Defence anticipates that TC Energy will pursue Impact and Environmental Assessment processes with both the federal and provincial governments. Should these assessments be positive, TC Energy may then seek a licence for the project under the Dominion Water Power Act. The project will not move forward unless it is approved by provincial and federal regulatory agencies, and DND determines that the project will not negatively impact the conduct of operations and training at 4 CDTC Meaford.National Defence and TC Energy will continue consultation and engagement as the project proceeds through further assessments and regulatory approvals. The Government of Canada will continue to assess the project through the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, as well as through relevant federal and provincial government stakeholders. The Department of National Defence will also begin an Environmental Effects Determination, as stipulated in the Impact Assessment Act, related to the proposed relocation of Base infrastructure. The Agreement in Principle commits TC Energy to pay all costs associated with this work.National Defence will continue to remain open and transparent as the department, Government of Canada, and TC Energy conduct these assessments, and will continue to provide updates, when available, at: http://Canada.ca/Meaford-energy-consultation 
Environmental protectionGeorgian BayRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 2, 2022441-00764441-00764 (Social affairs and equality)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKOctober 19, 2022December 2, 2022March 9, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWHEREAS:The Liberal Party of Canada was elected on a promise to revoke charitable status for pro-life organizations, such as Crisis Pregnancy Centres, which counsel young women and save countless lives every year;Revoking the charitable status of pro-life organizations is a first step towards even more tyrannical measures to eradicate the values and principles of Christian Canadians, meaning churches may be next; andRevoking the charitable status of pro-life organizations will result in an explosion in the number of brutal abortions committed in Canada each year, slaughtering thousands of innocent babies.THEREFORE, be it resolved, that the undersigned do hereby call upon Members of Parliament to do everything in their power to prevent, block, organize against, and vote against any effort by the government to revoke the charitable status of pro-life organizations in Canada.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
AbortionCharitable organizations
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00650441-00650 (Social affairs and equality)MarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonConservativeONSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00914441-00914 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 1, 2022January 30, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00456441-00456 (Health)CherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeConservativeONMay 12, 2022June 21, 2022March 3, 2022PETITION TO THE PRIME MINISTERWhereas:
  • Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Canada's Bill of Rights, and Canada's history of sacrifice in defence of liberty, demand we respect and uphold the conscience rights of all Canadians; and
  • The Prime Minister has encouraged hatred and contempt towards individuals exercising their constitutionally protected conscience rights.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Prime Minister to:1- End pandemic mandates on the members of our Public Service, the Canadian Armed Forces personnel, all contractors subject to the federal mandates, and all federally regulated workers; and 2- Lift border restrictions related to the pandemic for all Canadians, including ceasing the covid testing required of Canadians upon returning to Canada.
Response by the President of the Treasury Board Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Greg FergusAs the country’s largest employer, the Government of Canada is leading by example. Having a fully vaccinated workforce means that not only are worksites safer, so are the communities where this large population lives and works. It also means better protection for Canadians accessing government services in person.On October 6, 2021, the Treasury Board of Canada announced its Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Core Public Administration Including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The Policy is compliant with legislation, including the Privacy Act, the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and collective agreements. The Policy provides for addressing requests for accommodation based on any prohibited ground of discrimination as defined under the Canadian Human Rights Act, on a case-by-case basis.On October 21, 2021, the Canadian Human Rights Commission published a guide on vaccination policies and human rights, which states that “Rights are not absolute. […] Requiring that an individual be vaccinated to work or travel is not a discriminatory practice under the Canadian Human Rights Act. Vaccination requirements are not a discriminatory practice because they are intended (and are necessary) to protect public health and safety.”
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherThe Government of Canada requires that all public service employees be fully vaccinated to access federal government facilities. This approach ensures that federal workplaces are kept safe and that employees who work in them are protected.In support of this policy, the Government also requires any contracted personnel accessing federal government workplaces to be fully vaccinated. This requirement for contracted personnel took effect on November 15, 2021. Any contractor whose personnel must access a federal government workplace is required to certify that the personnel are fully vaccinated. Completed certifications will be kept on file. Monitoring will be performed by organizations receiving the contractor’s services.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayProtecting the readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces means protecting the health and safety of its members. Therefore, National Defence is committed to a healthy and safe workforce to ensure the readiness of the Defence Team to support operations at home and abroad.In accordance with Government of Canada policies, the Chief of the Defence Staff issued directives mandating COVID-19 vaccines for all Canadian Armed Forces members. COVID-19 vaccination is now included in the minimum standard for vaccination for all operations abroad and for most domestic operations. In addition to the operational requirement, COVID-19 vaccination is a condition for enrolment into the Canadian Armed Forces. Currently, the Canadian Armed Forces has a 98% vaccination rate.The Canadian Armed Forces will continue to follow Government of Canada policies to protect the health and safety of its members and of the broader Canadian population.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada has implemented a multi-layered framework of travel and border measures to protect Canadians by preventing travel from being a source for the spread of COVID-19 and its variants.Adjustments to Canada’s border measures are made possible by a number of factors, including Canada’s high vaccination rate, the increasing availability and use of rapid tests to detect infection, the decrease in hospitalizations, and the increasing availability of treatment for COVID-19 in Canada.As with any other element of the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 response, the testing measures required of returning Canadians have been informed by available data, operational considerations, scientific evidence and monitoring of the epidemiological situation across Canada.As the importation rate of disease at the border has significantly reduced since January 2022, the Government of Canada has reassessed and adjusted its border measures.Effective April 1, 2022, the Government has removed the requirement for pre-entry testing for fully vaccinated travellers entering Canada. Therefore, fully vaccinated travellers arriving at land, air or marine ports of entry are no longer required to complete a pre-entry test for entry to Canada.Additionally, effective April 25, 2022, partially and unvaccinated children aged 5-11, who are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent or guardian, are no longer required to complete a pre-entry COVID-19 test for entry to Canada, but will be subject to mandatory randomized testing on-arrival to Canada. Fully vaccinated travellers, children aged 5-11 (who are accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult), and those with a medical contraindication to COVID-19 vaccination are no longer required to provide quarantine plans when travelling into Canada.Fully vaccinated travellers are no longer required to:
  • monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms;
  • mask while in public spaces;
  • quarantine if another traveller in the same travel group exhibits signs or symptoms or tests positive; and,
  • maintain a list of close contacts and locations for 14 days after arriving in Canada.
Travellers who do not qualify as fully vaccinated must continue to provide proof of an accepted pre-entry COVID-19 test result, test on arrival and on Day 8 and quarantine for 14 days.Any easing or modification of the current border restrictions in Canada is done based on the latest scientific evidence and in close consultation with our provincial, territorial and international partners, including industry stakeholders, with the health and safety of Canadians as the first priority.As vaccination levels and healthcare system capacity improve, the Government of Canada will continue to consider further easing of measures at the borders, and when to lift or adjust those measures to keep people in Canada safe.
BordersCOVID-19Federally regulated employers and employeesPandemicPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01685441-01685 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023March 9, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 20, 2022441-00357441-00357 (Health)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCApril 6, 2022May 20, 2022March 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:The opioid crisis is one of the most deadly public health emergencies of our lifetime, with a death taking place on average about every two hours and a death toll of almost 15,400 in the past four years alone (January 2016 to December 2019); andThe overdose crisis rages.We, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency and:
  • Take steps to end overdose deaths and overdose injuries;
  • Immediately collaborate with provinces and territories to develop a comprehensive, pan-Canadian overdose action plan;
  • Ensure that any plan considers reforms that other countries have used, such as legal regulation of drugs to ensure safe supply, decriminalization for personal use, and changes to flawed drug policy and policing; and
  • Ensure this emergency is taken seriously with adequately funded programming and supports.
Response by the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada recognizes that the overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. Tragically, the most recent national data indicates that 26,690 apparent opioid toxicity deaths occurred between January 2016 and September 2021. Fentanyl and its analogues continue to be major drivers of the crisis with as many as 86% of accidental apparent opioid toxicity deaths in the first nine months of 2021 (January to September) involving fentanyl.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the complexity of this crisis has only become more complex due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This had led to a more uncertain and toxic illegal drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services, such as life-saving harm reduction and treatment services. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience, to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need during the pandemic.With respect to the request to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency, the Government of Canada remains fully committed to addressing the overdose crisis and working with partners across all provinces and territories to save lives. Such a declaration is not required at the federal level to access important responses to the overdose crisis. In addition, the Government believes that the crisis requires a longer term, sustained, and coordinated effort, which the Emergency Act is not designed to provide. At the federal level, we have taken action by reducing legislative and regulatory barriers, developing new prescription guidelines and marketing restrictions, launching a public awareness campaign, improving the knowledge base, supporting treatment and harm reduction initiatives across Canada, and providing emergency funding to provinces and territories.Provinces and territories have a range of tools and authorities to address the ongoing opioid overdose crisis in their respective jurisdictions. For example, provinces and territories fund and deliver the majority of direct social and health interventions, such as naloxone distribution, and safer consumption sites, that are shown to effectively reduce opioid overdose deaths and harms. Provinces, territories and municipalities also have the power to declare a public health emergency in response to a significant increase in opioid-related deaths, as was the case for British Columbia in April 2016 and Alberta declaring a public health crisis in May 2017. More recently, Yukon declared a substance use health emergency in January 2022. The declaration of a provincial and territorial public health emergency allows a provincial or territorial government to access and exercise extraordinary powers to address a crisis.Canada’s approach to substance use issues aims to be comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach, and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. It includes four key pillars – prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and enforcement. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction services are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2017, the Government of Canada has taken urgent action to address the overdose crisis through significant commitments of over $800 million. Recent examples in this area include:
  • over $282 million to the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) through the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, Budget 2021, and Budget 2022, in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide frontline services in a COVID-19 context, to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched with the provinces and territories, will result in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services;
  • $200 million, with $40 million per year ongoing, to enhance the delivery of culturally appropriate addictions treatment and prevention services in First Nations communities;
  • more than $20 million for Naloxone distribution, education and training; and,
  • $13 million over five years to launch a new national, multi-year public education campaign to help reshape Canadians’ attitudes and perceptions about people who use drugs.
In addition to these investments, in order to prevent and reduce substance-related harms, the Government of Canada has undertaken a broad range of policy, legislative and regulatory actions, such as:
  • approving exemptions to establish supervised consumption sites (since January 1, 2016, the number of supervised consumption sites operating in Canada has increased from 1 to 38), and providing provincial and territorial class exemptions to facilitate the establishment of Urgent Public Health Need Sites (commonly known as overdose prevention sites);
  • reducing barriers to providing people who use drugs with safer, pharmaceutical-grade alternatives to the toxic illegal drug supply and supporting 17 safer supply projects across 29 sites in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick, and one national community of practice, for a total investment of over $63 million;
  • providing guidance and leadership on the prescribing, dispensing, and delivery of opioids and other narcotics during the pandemic;
  • creating new regulatory pathways under the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations used to authorize medication used to treat addiction not otherwise available (e.g., approving diacetylmorphine hydrochloride as a supervised injectable opioid agonist therapy for adult patients with severe opioid use disorder and amending federal regulations to allow healthcare practitioners to provide diacetylmorphine-assisted treatment outside of a hospital setting, if permitted by their province or territory);
  • supporting the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, which encourages people to seek emergency help at the scene of an overdose by providing some legal protection against simple drug possession charges; and,
  • introducing Bill C-5, which proposes amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act which, among other measures, would repeal mandatory minimum penalties for drug related-offences, and would require prosecutors to consider alternative measures to laying charges or prosecuting individuals for simple possession of drugs, including diversion to treatment programs.
The Mandate Letter of the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health calls on the Minister to, “Advance a comprehensive strategy to address problematic substance use in Canada, supporting efforts to improve public education to reduce stigma, and supporting provinces and territories and working with Indigenous communities to provide access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction, as well as to create standards for substance use treatment programs.” The Government of Canada is continuing to work with provincial, territorial, Indigenous and municipal officials on options to address their regional needs. We have established federal, provincial and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Problematic Substance Use & Harms to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. We are also collaborating with provinces and territories to better understand the evolving crisis, and undertaking timely monitoring and reporting of opioid-related deaths and harms in Canada. Public health officers from the Public Health Agency of Canada have been deployed to support public health surveillance systems in provinces and territories.In addition, engagement with civil society organizations, direct care service providers, academics, people with lived and living experience, and other key stakeholders continues to inform federal actions to reduce opioid-related overdoses and deaths and improve the health and wellbeing of Canadians. For example, we continue to engage with stakeholders to inform them about safer supply and encourage them to look and work within their sphere of influence to remove barriers to this practice. Safer supply services provide a pharmaceutical alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply as a way to help prevent overdoses, improve the health of people who use drugs, and help connect people to trusted and supportive relationships in health and social services. Health Canada is supporting a number of safer supply projects through the Substance Use and Additions Program (SUAP). We have also taken action to increase access to safer supply services by:
  • helping to build the evidence base for safer supply by supporting the evaluation of pilot projects and seeking expert advice, including from health professionals and people who use drugs; 
  • making it easier to access needed medications, including issuing exemptions from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and,
  • sharing resources and guidance on treating substance use disorder for the use of healthcare practitioners.
The Government of Canada is also taking action to ensure that our enforcement response is focused on organized drug crime and the cross-border movement of illegal substances and the precursor chemicals that are used to make many of them. As Canada’s national police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detects, investigates, and disrupts the most serious and complex criminal threats to the safety and security of Canadians and Canadian interests, including transnational and serious organized crime (TSOC) and the illegal drug market. At our borders, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is working to reduce the flow of illegal opioids and related substances, precursor chemicals, and other controlled substances. Efforts to disrupt the involvement of organized crime groups in the production, trafficking, and sale of what are now increasingly toxic substances remain critical, including in support of public health measures to prevent, treat, and reduce the harms associated with the use of those substances. Recent and/or ongoing federal activities include:
  • acquisition of new infrastructure and tools required to assist in the safe examination and sampling of suspected highly toxic substances in addition to increasing intelligence, targeting, and training support;
  • investigating TSOC networks that traffic multiple commodities, within Canada and internationally, as well as online vendors and manufacturers;
  • providing an integrated policing response to drug trafficking and organized crime networks by working closely with local law enforcement agencies, as well as private industry partners, including chemical producers, retailers and distributors, to limit the chemicals used for legitimate purposes from being diverted for the illegal production of controlled substances; and,
  • maintaining strong relationships with international partners, including the United States of America, to support joint operations and investigations involving cross-border drug activity, as well as to facilitate productive policy dialogue and information exchange.
Some stakeholders have reported that the criminalization of illegal drugs for personal use can perpetuate stigma, increase risks of overdose and other harms, and increase barriers to care. Canada recognizes that drug use stigma can prevent people who use substances from accessing the health and social services that they need and contributes to negative health outcomes. To help ensure that stigma is not present in police interactions with people who use drugs and to avoid causing more harm, Public Safety Canada launched an online training module specifically designed for law enforcement members in September 2020. The training raises awareness of the harms associated with substance use stigma and provides frontline law enforcement members with practical tools to support their interactions with people who use drugs.The federal government is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country. The Government is working to divert people who use drugs away from criminal justice systems and towards supportive and trusted relationships in health and social services. In addition to the passage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act in May 2017, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada issued guidance to prosecutors directing that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for personal possession offences, except when there are serious aggravating circumstances.Moving forward, under the mandate of the new Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Health Canada will continue working with its partners and stakeholders to advance a comprehensive federal strategy to address substance use in Canada, including the overdose crisis. Canada will continue to support provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to improve access to a full range of evidence-based treatment and harm reduction services, in addition to leading efforts to reduce stigma and create national standards for substance use treatment programs. The Government of Canada believes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 16, 2022441-00324441-00324 (Environment)JenicaAtwinFrederictonLiberalNBMarch 31, 2022May 16, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels, and assists the Global South in cutting emissions by 80%, by 2030;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada.  Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to meeting with Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures:
  • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
  • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
  • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00652441-00652 (Social affairs and equality)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00515441-00515 (Social affairs and equality)KellyMcCauleyEdmonton WestConservativeABJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022February 8, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 11, 2022441-00293441-00293 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 28, 2022May 11, 2022February 8, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01700441-01700 (Civil and human rights)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKSeptember 29, 2023November 9, 2023May 2, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2022441-00795441-00795 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 24, 2022December 7, 2022March 24, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2023441-01108441-01108 (Social affairs and equality)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 6, 2023March 22, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00538441-00538 (Democratic process)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJune 7, 2022August 17, 2022May 9, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • An Angus Reid poll conducted in September found that: 85% of respondents supported a Citizens' Assembly to deliberate on electoral reform; 79% greed that a National Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform be formed after the 2019 federal election regardless of which party formed government; 90% agreed that parties should cooperate; and 80% agreed that parliament should reflect how people voted;
  • The distorted results from the recent federal election clearly illustrate the need for electoral reform;
  • An Angus Reid poll in November found consensus support for proportional representation from a majority of voters in every province, all age groups and all major political parties;
  • Citizens' Assemblies have been used successfully in Canada, Australia, Belgium, France, Ireland, Scotland and the U.K. to tackle difficult issues; and
  • A National Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform would: give citizens a leadership role in determining electoral reform for Canada; provide meaningful deliberation on electoral reform by a representative group of citizens free from partisan influence and interests; build consensus for any recommended changes to our electoral system; and need to be established as soon as possible to allow time for their recommendations to be adopted before the next federal election.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Establish a National Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform;
  • Require the Citizens' Assembly to complete its work within 12 months; and
  • Adopt any recommended changes to our electoral system before the next federal election.
Response by the Prime MinisterSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELLThe Government of Canada is committed to improving and strengthening our democracy. Our electoral system (i.e., the fundamental rules determining how votes are translated into seats in the House of Commons) is one of the most foundational pieces of our democracy – at its core is a question of how we, as Canadians, govern ourselves. The Government’s view has been clear: major reforms to the electoral system should not be made if they lack the broad support of Canadians.In 2016, the Government consulted broadly with Canadians on electoral reform. In fact, the electoral reform consultations were among the largest and farthest-reaching consultations ever undertaken by the Government of Canada. Furthermore, in its 2020 report, Innovative Citizen Participation and New Democratic Institutions: Catching the Deliberative Wave, the OECD recognized Canada as a leading practitioner of deliberative processes in engaging citizens.The 2016 public consultations included 57 parliamentary committee meetings that heard from        763 witnesses, 172 consultations undertaken by individual Members of Parliament, a cross-country Ministerial tour that made stops in 18 towns and cities across every province and territory, and online consultations that more than 360,000 people in Canada participated.The Government of Canada is thankful to all Canadians who took part in these consultations.The Government listened to Canadians carefully and gained valuable insights into Canadian democracy. Canadians cherish their democracy and value the direct connection they have with their Member of Parliament (MP). Canadians want their parliamentarians to work with each other and to cooperate on policy. They want the government to be accountable. They want their MPs to act in the interests of their constituents. The Government agrees.A clear preference for a new electoral system, let alone a consensus, did not emerge from these consultations. Consequently, the Government decided not to proceed with changing the electoral system.Our work did not stop there. The Government also took steps to modernize the electoral process and to make it more accessible, transparent and secure. The Elections Modernization Act, which passed in 2018, represents a generational overhaul of the Canada Elections Act, allowing it to better address the realities facing our democratic institutions in the 21st century. The Government of Canada will continue to work to strengthen and protect our democratic institutions.The first-past-the-post system has served this country for over 150 years and advances a number of democratic values Canadians hold dear, such as strong local representation, stability, and accountability.
Electoral reformNational Citizens' Assembly on Electoral ReformPublic consultation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 2, 2023441-01316441-01316 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABApril 19, 2023June 2, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00564441-00564 (Environment)Lisa MarieBarronNanaimo—LadysmithNDPBCJune 13, 2022September 20, 2022June 1, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition. 
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy. The Emissions Reduction Plan, released March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap outlining a sector-by-sector path for Canada to reach our emissions reduction targets, including net zero emissions by 2050.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in the Emissions Reduction Plan. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada has consulted with a broad range of stakeholders and is seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsMarch 19, 2024441-02247441-02247 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 19, 2024June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00482441-00482 (Environment)PatrickWeilerWest Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky CountryLiberalBCMay 17, 2022August 17, 2022May 13, 2022Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to Canadian workers.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Moreover, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support workers and communities as we transition to a low-carbon economy. Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. Natural Resources Canada is also working with Employment and Social Development Canada to look at growth areas in natural resources sectors, and how to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.Public consultations were launched in July 2021 on proposed just transition legislation and the Government of Canada is consulting with a broad range of stakeholders in addition to seeking the views of Indigenous groups and provinces and territories. The proposed legislation will be guided by the feedback received from the consultations, and a “What we Heard” report will be published once they are complete.Natural Resources Canada also launched the Regional Energy and Resource Tables—to partner with provinces and territories to accelerate Canada’s growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets.Working in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and engaging with Indigenous Peoples, experts and stakeholders, will form the basis for comprehensive and actionable place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. We understand that accelerated efforts are crucial to reduce emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Canada has invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015 and has recently announced $9.1 billion in new investments that builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions.In 2021, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels, and passed legislation to enshrine its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. On March 29, 2022, Canada tabled the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy (ERP)in Parliament and released the plan. The 2030 Plan is the Government’s next major step in taking action to Canada’s climate objectives and create good, sustainable jobs in Canada.Achieving Canada's climate goals requires all sectors of the economy to pursue decarbonization in ways that make cleaner initiatives more affordable and create new, sustainable job opportunities for workers. In addition, the 2030 ERP reflects input received from thousands of Canadians, businesses and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and the Carbon Neutrality Advisory Group.The 2030 ERP builds on significant progress Canada has already made to address climate change, including the actions outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, released in 2020. With the 2030 ERP, the Government of Canada is taking action by:
  • working with industry, stakeholders, provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and others to develop the cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector. Following consultations, the cap will be designed to lower emissions at a pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050, reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030, support clean technologies to further decarbonize the sector, and work to create sustainable jobs;
  • developing a national net-zero by 2050 buildings strategy, the Canada Green Buildings Strategy;
  • investing in nature and natural climate solutions through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to deliver additional emission reductions from nature-based climate solutions;
  • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders on the design of a Clean Electricity Standard to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035;
  • helping industries decarbonize by adopting clean technology in their journey to net-zero emissions by committing to develop a carbon capture, utilization and storage strategy; and
  • ensuring that workers and communities are able to benefit from the opportunities that the transition to a low-carbon economy presents, including by making significant investments in skills training and continuing consultations on the development of Sustainable Jobs and Skills legislation.
The 2030 ERP is designed to be evergreen—a comprehensive roadmap that reflects levels of ambition to guide emissions reduction efforts in each sector. As governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities across the country work together to reach these targets, Canada will identify and respond to new opportunities.Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. 
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP): While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program(SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Budget 2022 proposed to provide $2.5 million in 2022-23 for Employment and Social Development Canada to launch a new union-led advisory table that brings together unions and trade associations to advise the Government on priority investments that help skilled, mid-career workers affected by industry transition.  
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00980441-00980 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023July 17, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01051441-01051 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023July 17, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2022441-00755441-00755 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABOctober 18, 2022December 1, 2022June 8, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, it has been 17 years since the Chinese communist regime launched a persecution to "eradicate" Falun Gong a spiritual practice centred on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance;Whereas, millions of Falun Gong practitioners have been arbitrarily detained, including family members of Canadians. The mass extrajudicial imprisonment, forced labour, torture, rape, and killing along with hate propaganda have been reported by major human rights organizations;Whereas, an update report released in June 2016 by three reputable investigators David Kilgour, David Matas and Ethan Gutmann indicates that prisoners of conscience, primarily Falun Gong practitioners, have been killed on demand to fuel a massive state-run transplant industry, supplying most of the organs for an estimated tens of thousands transplants a year in Chinese hospitals since 2000;Whereas, the U.S. House of Representatives and European Parliament passed resolutions in June 2016 and December 2013 respectively condemning and calling for an immediate end to China's systematic and statesanctioned organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience, including Falun Gong. In February 2015, Canada's Parliamentary Subcommittee on International Human Rights unanimously passed a similar motion; andWhereas, since May 2015, over 200,000 Chinese citizens have filed criminal complaints against former Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin who orchestrated the persecution of Falun Gong.Therefore, we, the undersigned, request that the Canadian Parliament and government:
  • Establish measures to stop the Chinese regime's mass murder of innocent people for their organs, including but not limited to introducing Canadian legislation to ban organ tourism and criminalize those involved; and
  • Take every opportunity to call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Ministers stressed the importance of frank dialogue, and that with our strong cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries must pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China.On July 8, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the margins of the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting. She once again reiterated Canada’s concerns with human rights in China.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2022441-00409441-00409 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMay 9, 2022June 20, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw. the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, it has been 17 years since the Chinese communist regime launched a persecution to “eradicate” Falun Gong—a spiritual practice centred on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance;Whereas, millions of Falun Gong practitioners have been arbitrarily detained, including family members of Canadians. The mass extrajudicial imprisonment, forced labour, torture, rape, and killing along with hate propaganda have been reported by all major human rights organizations;Whereas, an update report released in June 2016 indicates that prisoners of conscience, primarily Falun Gong practitioners, have been killed on demand to fuel a massive state-run transplant industry, supplying most of the organs for an estimated 60,000-100,000 transplants a year in Chinese hospitals since 2000. It could mean that at least hundreds of thousands Falun Gong practitioners have been murdered for their organs over the last 15 years;Whereas, the U.S. House of Representatives and European Parliament passed resolutions in June 2016 and December 2013 respectively condemning and calling for an immediate end to China's systematic and statesanctioned organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience, including Falun Gong. In February 2015, Canada's Parliamentary Subcommittee on International Human Rights unanimously passed a similar motion; andWhereas, since May 2015, over 200,000 Chinese citizens have filed criminal complaints against former Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin, who orchestrated the persecution of Falun Gong;Therefore, we, the undersigned, request that the Canadian Parliament and government:
  • Establish measures to stop the Chinese regime's mass murder of innocent people for their organs, including but not limited to introducing Canadian legislation to ban organ tourism and criminalize those involved;
  • Take every opportunity to call for an end to the persecution of Falun Gong; and
  • Urge the Chinese authorities to bring former leader Jiang Zemin and his cohorts to justice.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in our government’s engagement with China. Canada has consistently called on China to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, assembly and association, and religion or belief for all.Canada has publicly voiced concerns about the intimidation and repression of ethnic minority and religious groups, as well as Falun Gong practitioners, and will continue to do so at every appropriate opportunity.Canada continues to work closely with international partners to advance the freedom of persecuted faith and belief communities worldwide. In 2015, Canada established the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief, co-Chaired by Canada and the United States. It is an important platform, which has brought together over 30 countries committed to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief. It has helped advance coordinated initiatives concerning issues of religious minorities around the world.Canadian engagement on human rights encompasses high level visits; public statements; representations on specific issues and cases of concern bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums; interventions and advocacy by the Embassy of Canada; as well as outreach to civil society.The promotion of human rights is a core component of Canada's constructive engagement in the world and our government is committed to do more. Canadian human rights efforts focus on advancing the rights of women and children, LGBTI persons, Indigenous peoples and human rights defenders; freedom of expression, including Internet freedom and civil society space; freedom of religion or belief; the abolition of the death penalty; as well as country specific issues in countries where human rights violations and abuses are particularly egregious.To ensure the protection of all human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, Canada addresses rights comprehensively through the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI), encouraging a climate of inclusion and respect for diversity to advance the rights of those too often marginalized in society. To this end, the OHRFI regularly engages with a diverse range of diaspora and faith and belief communities, as well as the broader international community, to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.The Government of Canada also regularly engages with a diverse range of civil society organisations, diaspora and faith and belief communities, and the broader international community to inform its approach in advocating for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief. Global Affairs Canada and Amnesty International Canada most recently held day-long consultations with the 15-member Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China (CCHRC) on December 17, 2021.The Government of Canada has and continues to present concerns regarding human rights practices directly to Chinese authorities. These concerns are raised with the Government of China at the highest levels, including during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Canada in September 2016, the Prime Minister’s visits to China in August 2016 and in December 2017, the Governor General’s visit to China in July 2017, and during a visit of Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to China in August 2017. The Prime Minister and Premier Li Keqiang also had a frank and open discussion on human rights, freedom of expression and freedom of religion as part of the third Canada-China Annual Leaders’ Dialogue in November 2018. At the G20 Foreign Minister’s meeting in Japan in November 2019, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights situation in China directly with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting. And in August 2020, the Minister of Foreign Affairs raised the human rights concerns with his Chinese counterpart during a bilateral meeting in Rome.On November 6, 2018, Canada made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of its Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. At that time, Canada called on China to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Falun Gong practitioners.In July 2019, Canada signed a joint statement, at the U.S. Ministerial Meeting to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington. This meeting is U.S.-led initiative where issues of religious freedom violations worldwide are addressed and that brings together foreign ministers and government representatives, civil society, as well as victims of religious persecution and discrimination. The joint statement emphasized concern about the significant restrictions on religious freedom in China and called on the Chinese government to respect the human rights of all individuals. The text stated that many members of religious minority groups in China face severe repression and discrimination because of their beliefs, including Falun Gong practitioners. On October 27, 2020, in a statement on International Religious Freedom Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated concerns over the ongoing persecution of faith and belief communities in China, including Falun Gong practitioners.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Ministers stressed the importance of frank dialogue, and that with our strong cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries must pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China.The Government of Canada remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking, including for the purposes of organ removal. The Government of Canada is actively engaged with other states, including China, to advocate and advance the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime’s Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children which promotes cooperation to more effectively prevent and combat trafficking in persons, including for the purposes of organ removal. Addressing the illegal organ trade is complex and requires international cooperation. Canada actively participated in the development of the revised World Health Organization’s Guiding Principles on Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation, which Member States, including China, adopted in 2010.The promotion, protection and respect of human rights are core priorities in our foreign policy. Canada will continue to raise its concerns about the human rights situation in China and we will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
ChinaCivil and human rightsFalun GongHuman organs and other body parts trafficking
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00988441-00988 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01060441-01060 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00031441-00031 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022June 5, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe the undersigned residents of Canada, draw to the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, conversion therapy has historically referred to degrading actions that seek to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity which are wrong and should be banned.Whereas, Bill C-6 defines conversion therapy as a practice, treatment, or service designed to change a person's sexual orientation to heterosexual, to change a person's gender identity or gender expression to cisgender or to repress or reduce non hetero sexual attraction or sexual behavior or nonsense gender expression.Whereas, the broad definition of conversion therapy outlined in Bill C-6 risks criminalizing a broad range of practices seeking to support, not abuse or degrade LGBTQ2+ Canadians.Whereas, Bill C-6 allows medical and psychological practices in an effort to change a child's gender but prohibits the same efforts for children seeking to detransition to his or her birth/cis gender.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:
  • 1. Ban all practices designed to coerce and degrade persons into changing their sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • 2. Ensure that no laws discriminate against Canadians by limiting the services they can receive based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • 3. Ensure that professional and religious counselling voluntarily requested by Canadians is not criminalize.
  • 4. Ensure that parents to speak to speak with their own children about sexuality and gender.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeConversion therapy is a scientifically discredited practice that discriminates against LGBTQ2 Canadians by telling them that they should change a fundamental part of who they are – their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. That is why our Government is proud to have passed Bill C-4, which criminalizes causing another person to undergo conversion therapy, removing a minor from Canada to subject them to conversion therapy abroad, profiting from conversion therapy and advertising or promoting it.Conversion therapy practices aim to change an individual’s sexual orientation to heterosexual, to change an individual’s gender identity to cisgender, or to change their gender expression to match the sex they were assigned at birth. They harm and further stigmatize sexual and gender-diverse persons and undermine their equality and dignity. They reflect myths and stereotypes about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and Two-Spirit (LGBTQ2) communities particularly that their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression are wrong. These harmful practices also reinforce heteronormative and cis-normative ideas, as well as gender-conformity on LGBTQ2 individuals.Consistent with its important objective of ending an inherently discriminatory practice, Bill C-4 defines conversion therapy as any practice, treatment or service that is designed to make a person conform to heteronormative or cisnormative standards. Bill C-4’s conversion therapy definition also clarifies that interventions that help a person explore or develop their identity are not conversion therapy unless they are based on the false assumption that a particular sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression is preferable to another.The consensus demonstrated by Parliamentarians in Canada on C-4 is a part of an emerging global consensus surrounding the real and life - long harms for conversion therapy victims and survivors, and our Government is proud to be a global leader in ending this abhorrent practice.
Conversion therapyGender identity and gender expressionSexual and gender minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00073441-00073 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022June 18, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, Following Azerbaijan's 44-day war against the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorono-Karabakh), a trilateral ceasefire agreement was signed between Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia - outside of the purview of the OSCE Minsk Group - ceasing all hostilities on the territory of the Republic of Artsakh.Whereas, while failing to address many challenges facing the region, the agreement specifically included a term relating to the return of prisoners of war and the exchange of the remains of fatalities.Whereas, despite such provisions, as many as 200 Armenian Prisoners of War (POW) illegally remain in Azerbaijani custody, without any transparent mechanisms in place to ensure their safe return.Whereas, since December 2020, Human Rights Watch has published two reports on the status of Armenian POW’s, confirming that they are being subjected to inhuman treatment, torture, humiliation, and other forms of abuse.Whereas, on February 1st, 2021, The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights released a statement, calling for the immediate release of POW’s.Whereas, on May 4, 2021, disturbing reports confirmed that close to 20 POW’s were mutilated and killed by Azerbaijani forces. This is a violation of international law by Azerbaijan, specifically as it relates to the provisions laid out in the Third Geneva Convention, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), all of which are signed by Azerbaijan.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Condemn Azerbaijan's illegal detention of Armenian POW’s and call for their immediate release;2. Use all the diplomatic tools available to advocate for the release of those held captive;3. Condemn the ongoing state-sponsored anti-Armenian hatred in Azerbaijan;4. Denounce all aggressive rhetoric from Turkey and Azerbaijan against Armenia and Artsakh;5. Provide the necessary humanitarian assistance to ensure the safety and viability of the population of Artsakh and facilitate the exchange of the remains of fatalities.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada is deeply concerned by the November 2021 border clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan and continues to call on all parties to seek a sustainable peace. Canada supports all UN Security Council Resolutions on Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as the very important role of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group.A comprehensive resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is long-overdue and can only be delivered through a peaceful, negotiated settlement, not through military action. Armenia and Azerbaijan, and all external parties, must continue working together to build mutual confidence at this very sensitive time.Canada remains in close contact with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and is kept aware of the difficulties in securing the release of Prisoners of War (POWs) and other detainees. Canada welcomes the release of detainees since May 2021 by Azerbaijan, as well as the sharing of landmine maps by Armenia. Through both bilateral and multilateral channels, Canada continues to call for accelerating the immediate release of all detainees as a key step in the confidence-building process. The release of POWs and detainees remains one of Canada’s priorities, and Canada will continue to raise its concerns whenever the opportunity arises.Canada is aware of and deeply concerned about the allegations of human rights violations facing Armenian POWs and detainees, and calls on the respective governments to fully abide by the simultaneous orders issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for provisional measures against both Armenia and Azerbaijan, including to take all necessary measures to prevent the incitement and promotion of racial hatred, including by officials and public institutions, and to protect persons captured by Azerbaijan during the conflict from bodily harm. Canada continues to call on respective governments to investigate human rights allegations diligently in compliance with international human rights law.The Government of Canada is working to address the post-conflict recovery and reconstruction of Nagorno-Karabakh in numerous ways. The Minister of Foreign Affairs regularly engages with many key partners, including at NATO, the EU and the OSCE, and has held consultations with the diaspora communities of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Canada. Canada has had regular dialogue with the Government of Armenia, including the recent bilateral interaction between the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia on the margins of the 28th OSCE Ministerial Council. Canada has also regularly engaged with the Azerbaijani Government, both through their Embassy in Ottawa and Canada’s Embassy to Azerbaijan. Canada is pleased to have provided an additional $1 million in humanitarian funding to the ICRC in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2021, in addition to the $450,000 provided in 2020 to support the ICRC’s budget extension for the region and address urgent needs that have arisen as a result of the conflict in a needs-based manner.Canada will continue to remain engaged and supportive of sustainable peace and security and will continue to assist with humanitarian efforts.
ArmeniaAzerbaijanForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workersPrisoners of war
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00042441-00042 (Government services and administration)RachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverNDPBCDecember 7, 2021January 31, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the Government of Canada Whereas:
  • Savary Island in British Columbia had a Canada Post office between 1913-1980;
  • More than 100 full time residents of Savary Island do not receive mail at their primary address;
  • Canada Post is mandated to provide free mail service to all Canadians at their primary address;
  • The residents of Savary Island have a right to be included in the free mail service to all Canadians.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to ensure residents of Savary Island in the Province of British Columbia are serviced by a corporate run post office in their community.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherCanada Post has accepted the petition and will review it.While Canada Post is required through the Canada Post Corporation Act to deliver to every address in Canada, Canada Post determines the mode of delivery which may include delivery to the door, a community mailbox, group mailbox, a rural mailbox, a postal box, general delivery at the post office or delivery to a central point in apartment/office buildings.Canada Post regularly reviews its postal network needs and many factors must be considered when determining the location of a Post Office, including Canada Post’s mandate to be financially self-sufficient. All of its decisions are taken while respecting its Service Charter requirements.
Canada Post CorporationPost offices and outletsSavary Island
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00119441-00119 (Health)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCFebruary 1, 2022March 21, 2022December 8, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDPetition to Address the Opioid CrisisWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:Oover 4000 Canadians died in 2017 and over 2,800 in 2016 due to preventable opioid overdose resulting from fentanyl-poisoned sources; The number of preventable deaths has surpassed the total number of deaths of all other Public Health Emergencies in the last 20 years including SARS, H1N1, and Ebola; Those who have died as a result of a preventable opioid overdose from fentanyl-poisoned sources were valued citizens of this country: our children, siblings, spouses, parents, family members, clients, friends; Substance use is a normal part of human experience, documented across centuries and all over the world; The current war on drugs has been costly and grossly ineffective and resulted in widespread stigma towards addiction and against those who use illicit drugs; Criminalization of particular substances has resulted in the establishment of a drug trade that now traffics dangerous and lethal products, such as fentanyl; Regulating to ensure safe sources, with proper measures and bylaws, will reduce the criminal element associated with street drugs; Problematic substance use is a health issue and is not resolved through criminalizing personal possession and consumption; and Decriminalization of personal possession is associated with dramatically reducing overdose deaths in the countries that have modernized their drug policy.Therefore we, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Declare the current opioid overdose and fentanyl poisoning crisis a National Public Health Emergency under the Emergencies Act in order to manage and resource it with the aim to reduce and eliminate preventable deaths;
  • 2. Reform current drug policy to decriminalize personal possession; and
  • 3. Create with urgency and immediacy a system to provide safe unadulterated access to substances so that people who use substances, experimentally, recreationally or chronically, are not at imminent risk of overdose due to a contaminated source.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada recognizes that the overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada’s recent history, which is having devastating impacts on individuals, friends and families, and communities across the country. Tragically, most recent national data indicates that 24,626 apparent opioid toxicity deaths occurred between January 2016 and June 2021. Fentanyl and its analogues continue to be major drivers of the crisis with as many as 87% of accidental apparent opioid toxicity deaths so far in 2021 (January to June) involving fentanyl.The Government of Canada also recognizes that the complexity of this crisis has only increased due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a more uncertain and dangerous illegal toxic drug supply, resulting in tragic increases in overdose-related deaths across the country, as well as reduced access to health and social services, including life-saving harm reduction and treatment. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have been working with provinces, territories, municipalities and other partners, including researchers, advocates and people with lived and living experience, to ensure that people who use drugs can continue to access the treatment, harm reduction and other services they need during the pandemic.With respect to the request to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency, the federal Emergencies Act is a tool of last resort to ensure safety and security in the event of a national emergency that cannot be addressed by other levels of government or other laws. Such a declaration is not required at the federal level to access important tools to respond to the overdose crisis. In addition, the Government believes that the crisis requires a longer-term, sustained, and co-ordinated effort, which the Emergencies Act is not designed to provide.The Government of Canada’s approach to substance use issues aims to be comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate, guided by our federal drug strategy – the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). The CDSS takes a public health-focused approach, and lays out our framework for evidence-based actions to reduce the harms associated with substance use in Canada. It includes four key pillars – prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and enforcement. In the context of the worsening overdose crisis, and taking steps to reduce harms and deaths related to substance use, the Government is placing particular focus on:
  • ensuring that harm reduction measures are available to Canadians who need them;
  • working with stakeholders to reduce stigma directed at people who use drugs, which acts as a barrier to accessing critical health and social services and often leads to social isolation and further risk of harms;
  • continuing to work with provinces and territories to improve access to evidence-based treatment options;
  • continuing to address illegal production and trafficking, with a focus on organized drug crime; and,
  • implementing additional surveillance and research activities that will further build the evidence base and allow us to pursue innovative solutions to this public health crisis.
Since 2016, the Government of Canada has taken urgent action to address the overdose crisis through significant investments of over $700 million. Recent examples of key federal investments in this area include:
  • over $182 million through the 2020 Fall Economic Statement and Budget 2021 in support of community-based organizations responding to substance use issues, including investments to help them provide direct care services in a COVID-19 context and to scale-up key lifesaving measures and increase access to a safer drug supply as an alternative to the contaminated supply;
  • $150 million through the one-time Emergency Treatment Fund to provinces and territories, which, when cost-matched, resulted in an investment over $300 million to improve access to evidence-based treatment services;
  • $200 million, with $40 million per year ongoing, to enhance the delivery of culturally appropriate addictions treatment and prevention services in First Nations communities; and,
  • $13 million over five years to launch a new national, multi-year public education campaign to help reshape Canadians’ attitudes and perceptions about people who use drugs.
The Government of Canada is continuing to work with provincial, territorial, municipal, and Indigenous partners on options to address their regional needs. We have established federal, provincial, and territorial governance tables, including the Special Advisory Committee on the Epidemic of Opioid Overdoses and the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Committee on Problematic Substance Use & Harms to facilitate ongoing collaboration and consultation with provincial and territorial partners. We are also collaborating with provinces and territories to better understand the evolving crisis, and undertaking timely monitoring and reporting of opioid-related deaths and harms in Canada. Public health officers from the Public Health Agency of Canada have been deployed to support public health surveillance systems in provinces and territories.In addition, engagement with civil society organizations, direct care service providers, academics, people with lived and living experience, and other key stakeholders continues to inform federal actions to reduce opioid-related overdoses and deaths and improve the health and wellbeing of Canadians who use drugs. For example, we continue to engage with stakeholders to provide them with information about safer supply and encourage them to look and work within their sphere of influence to remove barriers to this practice. Safer supply services provide a pharmaceutical alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply as a way to help prevent overdoses, improve the health of people who use drugs, and help connect people to other health and social services. Health Canada is supporting a number of safer supply projects through the Substance Use and Additions Program (SUAP). We have also taken action to increase access to safer supply services by:
  • helping to build the evidence base for safer supply by supporting the evaluation of pilot projects and seeking expert advice, including from health professionals and people who use drugs; 
  • making it easier to access needed medications, including issuing exemptions from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and,
  • sharing resources and guidance on treating substance use disorder for healthcare practitioners.
The Government of Canada has taken actions to reduce barriers to providing people who use drugs with a safer, pharmaceutical alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply. On August 24, 2020, the Minister of Health sent a letter to Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Health and regulatory colleges to encourage the provision of a full spectrum of care options to people who use drugs, including access to a safer supply. In addition, Health Canada has issued class exemptions to ease restrictions on the transportation of controlled substances and reduced barriers for pharmacists to make it easier for people to access the medications they need during the COVID-19 pandemic while following public health advice, such as physical distancing. Through Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program, the Government of Canada is supporting 17 safer supply projects across 29 sites in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick and one national community of practice, for a total investment of over $60 million. Seventeen of these projects are providing medications to people with substance use disorders as an alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply, and one is a National Community of Practice that focuses on the sharing of best practices and knowledge dissemination between providers of safer supply.The Government of Canada has also taken a number of steps to provide options for those seeking treatment for severe substance use disorder. On April 25, 2019, the Minister of Health added diacetylmorphine to the List of Drugs for an Urgent Public Health Need and on February 16, 2022, diacetylmorphine hydrochloride was formally approved by Health Canada as a supervised injectable opioid agonist therapy for adult patients with severe opioid use disorder. Amendments to federal regulations have also allowed health care practitioners to provide diacetylmorphine-assisted treatment outside of a hospital setting, if permitted by their province or territory. In addition, on May 1, 2019, Health Canada approved the use of injectable hydromorphone by qualified health care professionals as a treatment for adults with severe opioid use disorder. It has already been approved as a treatment option for severe opioid use disorder in a number of countries, including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands.Canada is also providing guidance and leadership on the prescribing, dispensing, and delivery of opioids and other narcotics during the pandemic. For instance, through funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse developed a series of national guidance documents related to substance use in the context of COVID-19. Health Canada has also assembled a toolkit to provide clarity on prescribing for the treatment of substance use disorder and/or to provide a safer supply. Furthermore, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health published a rapid review of clinical and cost-effectiveness of injectable opioid agonist treatment for patients with opioid dependence.The federal government recognizes that problematic substance use is, first and foremost, a public health issue not a criminal one. The Government of Canada has worked to implement a number of measures to divert people who use drugs away from the criminal justice system and towards trusted and supportive relationships. For example, the government passed the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act in May 2017, which provides some legal protection for people who experience or witness an overdose and call 911 or their local emergency number for help.. On August 18, 2020, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada issued guidance to prosecutors, directing that alternatives to prosecution should be considered for personal possession offences, except when there are serious aggravating circumstances. In addition, Health Canada is currently funding a three-year project in Peterborough, Ontario, to develop a multi-sector response to direct people who use drugs away from the justice system and into care. In March 2021, the Minister of Health commissioned an Expert Task Force on Substance Use, whose reports provide important advice with regards to alternatives to criminal penalties for simple possession of controlled substances and federal drug policy. Further to the Government’s commitment to reintroduce former Bill C-22 in the first 100 days of their mandate, on December 7, 2021, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada introduced Bill C-5, which proposes amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Among other measures, this Bill would repeal mandatory minimum penalties for drug related-offences, and would require prosecutors to consider alternative measures to laying charges or prosecuting individuals for simple possession of drugs, including diversion to treatment programs, giving a warning, or taking no further action.We are currently working with jurisdictions who have submitted a s. 56 exemption request for the decriminalization of illicit drugs for personal possession. We have received the Section 56 exemption requests from BC, Vancouver and Toronto Public Health and we are reviewing them on an urgent basis. Each request is reviewed on a case by case basis. The federal government knows other jurisdictions are also looking at other health-based approaches and we are working with our partners to find innovative solutions grounded on evidence. “Canada will continue to work with provincial, territorial, municipal, and Indigenous partners on options to address their regional needs and help people who use drugs to get the support they need.The Government of Canada aims to take a comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate public health focused approach to addressing substance use. We have been working with civil society organizations, front line responders, academics, people with lived and living experience, and other key stakeholders to reduce overdoses and deaths and improve the health and wellbeing of Canadians who use drugs. The federal government believes that substance use is a health issue, and is committed to examining all options and evidence to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while also ensuring the safety of communities across the country.
DecriminalizationDrug use and abuseOpiates and opioidsPublic health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00104441-00104 (Environment)ScottReidLanark—Frontenac—KingstonConservativeONDecember 16, 2021January 31, 2022December 15, 2021Petition to the Prime Minister and the Government of CanadaWHEREAS Canada must address the climate emergency.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to enact just transition legislation that:
  • Reduces emissions by at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030, and makes significant contributions to emissions reductions in countries in the Global South;
  • Winds down the fossil fuel industry and related infrastructure, ends fossil fuel subsidies, and transitions to a decarbonized economy;
  • Creates new public economic institutions and expands public ownership of services and utilities across the economy to implement the transition;
  • Creates good green jobs and drives inclusive workforce development, led by and including affected workers and communities, and ensures decent, low-carbon work for all workers;
  • Protects and strengthens human rights and worker rights, respects Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and knowledge by including them in creating and implementing this legislation, ensures migrant justice, and emphasizes support for historically marginalized communities;
  • Expands the social safety net through new income supports, decarbonized public housing, and operational funding for affordable and accessible public transit countrywide; and
  • Pays for the transition by increasing taxes on the wealthiest and corporations and financing through a public national bank.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector, one that provides affordable and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries, and exports products and technologies around the world.  We also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for countless individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective transition to a more sustainable energy future must be one where we ensure a cleaner environment as well as provide significant opportunities to those workers and communities that have relied upon traditional energy sources.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to take advantage of this transition, decarbonize our energy sector and make thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors like clean technology and renewable energy.As a part of this effort, we have committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated our timeline to do so to 2023. Canada has already phased out or rationalized eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.Canada’s oil and gas sector has also made its own net-zero commitments. At COP26, our government took the industry up on its offer to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in announcing that we will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with our climate targets. Companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies, leading to increased electrification and greater use of hydrogen. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to taking bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build up a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures:
    • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
    • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
    • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.                                    
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykSectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP):While climate change will result in a number of employment challenges, the shift to a green economy will also provide exceptional opportunities to build an inclusive and skilled workforce to drive economic growth.The impact of the transition to a low carbon economy will vary by sector, region and occupation. Employers and workers across all sectors and industries will require varying levels of support to develop the skills needed to seize current and emerging opportunities. Targeted initiatives can help minimize the negative impacts on workers, vulnerable people, and their communities, and help ensure that the transition to a low carbon economy is just and leaves no one behind.For example, Budget 2021 announced a new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), to support key sectors of the economy, including those linked to the clean economy, to implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs. The program will help employers and connect Canadians with the training they need to access good jobs in sectors where employers are looking for skilled workers, such as the renewable energy sector. It will also place priority on supporting equity-deserving groups and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce.Additionally, the Government of Canada has committed to launching a Clean Jobs Training Center, which will help workers across sectors to upskill or reskill in order to be on the leading edge of the low carbon industry.The Government of Canada has also announced in Budget 2021 a new Community Workforce Development Program that will fund projects at a national and regional level to:
  • Support community workforce planning by bringing together organizations from across public, private, labour and not-for-profit sectors to match local sources of labour with employer demand;
  • Train displaced workers to acquire the skills, knowledge and experience that would enable them to meet employers’ on-the-job expectations; and,
  • Employ workers in new jobs contributing to stimulating economic growth.
Climate change and global warmingGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 2, 2022441-00228441-00228 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 21, 2022May 2, 2022July 27, 2021Petition to the House of Commons of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons of Canada to the following:Whereas, Abdul Rahman Khan the Amir of Afghanistan, who was installed by the British government and received a subsidy from them, waged a genocidal campaign against the Hazaras from 1891 to 1893, wiping out the vast majority of this ethnic group;Whereas, tens of thousands of Hazaras were forcefully displaced from their lands while many other thousands were forcefully proselytized (from Shia to Sunni), raped and enslaved from 1891-1893;Whereas, in August 1998 hundreds if not thousands of Hazara men, women, children and elders were slaughtered in the cities of Mazar-e-Sharif and Bamiyan;Whereas, the Hazaras continue to face systemic and targeted persecution in post-2001 Afghanistan, such as the killings of newborn infants in Dasht-e-Barchi`s maternity ward in May 2020 or the targeted attacks in Behsud (Maidan Wardak province), Jibrail (Herat) and Jalalabad (Nangarhar) from January to March of 2021;Whereas, Canada has expended $3.6 billion in assistance to Afghanistan and lost 158 brave men and women in uniform in the fight against the Taliban;Whereas, Afghanistan remains one of the largest recipients of Canada's international financial assistance;Therefore we, the undersigned, call upon the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Formally recognize the 1891-1893 ethnic cleansing perpetrated against the Hazaras as a Genocide. 2. To designate September 25th as Hazara Genocide Memorial Day. 3. Support Bill C-287 to ensure that all development assistance sent from Canada to Afghanistan is contributing to the peace and security of the region for all peoples.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous societies. The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy, and Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world, including in Afghanistan, in both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges that ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan have suffered significantly from the past four decades of conflict. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly condemned attacks against the Hazara community in Afghanistan. Canada denounced the tragic attack on May 8, 2021, against a girls’ high school in Kabul, which claimed the lives of 85 people, mostly young Hazara girls. Attacks such as this are a visible demonstration of the broader issues of persecution, discrimination, forced conversions and targeted attacks that ethnic and religious minorities face in Afghanistan at the hands of armed groups.Canada also notes the historic and systematic discrimination and prosecution of the Hazara population in Afghanistan, and recalls the tragic events of 1891-1893, as well as those of August 1998. Events such as these should never happen again. The determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must however be done by a competent international or national court or tribunal, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, to which Canada is a party.Canada has repeatedly shared its concerns on the situation of ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan, and continues to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances.Canada recognizes that Afghanistan is at a pivotal moment, and is closely monitoring developments on the ground. One of Canada’s foreign policy priorities is to ensure the respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada reiterates that all ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.Since August 2021, Canada has allocated $106 million in humanitarian assistance to respond to the needs of vulnerable populations in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries. This includes $56 million announced on December 21, 2021. Canada is supporting a multi-sectoral humanitarian response across Afghanistan, including a particular emphasis on the provision of life-saving food and nutrition assistance.Canada continues to respond through experienced humanitarian partners, such as United Nations agencies both inside Afghanistan and in neighbouring countries to address the needs of the most vulnerable. For example, with Canadian support, humanitarian partners provided 8.9 million people with food assistance and treatment for acute malnutrition to over 230,000 children under the age of five inside Afghanistan in the last four months of 2021.Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Hazara, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan and Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups over the past two decades. Canada is exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders and remote monitoring activities of the human rights situation by human rights bodies from outside of Afghanistan. Going forward, receiving unbiased and verified accounts of human rights atrocities will be crucial for the international community’s decision-making around its future engagement with the Taliban.On August 13, 2021, Canada announced a special humanitarian program to focus on particularly vulnerable Afghan nationals, including religious and ethnic minorities. Canada’s special immigration program has already brought thousands of Afghans, including Hazaras, to Canada, and teams across the world continue working to bring many more Afghans to safety.
AfghanistanGenocideHazarasInternational development and aid
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00644441-00644 (Culture and heritage)WilsonMiaoRichmond CentreLiberalBCJune 23, 2022August 17, 2022June 16, 2022Petition to the Minister of FinanceWHEREAS:
  • The Bank of Canada is undertaking a redesign of the $5 Canadian banknote;
  • Won Alexander Cumyow is among the shortlist of eight candidates for selection as the next face of the $5 banknote;
  • The Minister of Finance will make the final decision, in accordance with the Bank of Canada Act;
  • While Won Alexander Cumyow may not be a household name to many Canadians, his story represents the struggle, opportunity, and hope that has shaped the Canadian identity;
  • Mr. Won was the first Chinese-Canadian to be born in present-day Canada;
  • Mr. Won faced systemic racism and discrimination throughout his life. Despite being formally trained as a lawyer, Mr. Won was denied the ability to write the bar exam and practice law because he was ethnic Chinese;
  • Despite adversity, Mr. Won would go on to lead a long and distinguished career as a court interpreter and become a leader of the early Chinese-Canadian community;
  • Mr. Won was at the forefront in the fight against the Chinese Head Tax, disenfranchisement of Chinese Canadians, and racial segregation. After decades fighting for the right to vote, Won Cumyow was finally able to cast his ballot in 1949, at age 88, following the repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1947;
  • This is an important opportunity to showcase to Canadians, newcomers to Canada, and the entire world the rich history of Canada's immigrant heritage - heritage that formed the foundation of our country and which is woven into the fabric of our society today; and
  • A root cause of anti-Asian racism in Canada is a lack of understanding and appreciation for the contributions of Asian-Canadians throughout our country's history.
We, the undersigned residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Finance to select Won Alexander Cumyow to be featured as the face on the redesigned five dollar Canadian banknote.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about the design of the new $5 bank note.The accomplishments of distinguished Canadians are an integral part of our history and culture. Their representation on our bank notes is an important means to reflect our shared character and values. The Bank of Canada, on behalf of the government, has taken an open and transparent approach to the consideration of a portrait for the $5 bank note. The Bank launched official public consultations in 2020, receiving about 53,000 submissions from about 45,000 Canadians, which resulted in over 600 qualifying nominees. All eligible nominations were reviewed by an independent Advisory Council composed of eminent individuals from academia, the cultural sector, and civil society.Following a thorough and rigorous process, the Advisory Council established a short list of eight candidates which the government will consider.The Government of Canada is pleased that thousands of Canadians engaged in this process and took time to reflect on the many remarkable Canadians worth celebrating. The government will take this petition under careful consideration.
Cumyow, Won AlexanderFive dollar bill
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 21, 2022441-00753441-00753 (Media and telecommunications)DanMuysFlamborough—GlanbrookConservativeONOctober 7, 2022November 21, 2022October 4, 2022PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:In 2016, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) declared highspeed internet an essential service;The minimum standard of reliable highspeed internet set by Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada is 50/10 Mbps;There are over 8000 homes in the rural areas of Hamilton, and the majority are without reliable 50/10 Mbps internet;Our internet service is inconsistent, inadequate, or simply non-existent;In 2022 access to reliable highspeed internet is necessary to participate in civil society;The lack of reliable high-speed internet has impacted our ability to effectively work remotely from home, go to school, and stay in touch with our loved ones; andThe timeframe laid out in the Universal Broadband is unacceptable, we cannot wait another few years.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada and residents of Hamilton, Ontario, call upon the Government of Canada to provide us with reliable high-speed internet access.
Response by the Minister of Rural Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Parliamentary Secretary Stéphane LauzonThe Government of Canada knows that access to high-speed internet is essential for all Canadians, no matter where they live. That is why this government has made more than $7.6 billion available across government connectivity programs to support the building of rural and remote Internet infrastructure. Today, 93.5% of Canadians have access to high-speed Internet or are targeted to receive access through program commitments, compared to 79% of Canadians in 2014.Our government’s most recent connectivity program, the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) is the largest federal investment in broadband in Canada’s history. The UBF will provide $3.225 billion to help ensure that 98% of Canadians will have access to high-speed Internet by 2026 – and we are on track to meet that goal. In fact, the impact of UBF investments has been an acceleration of the targets in Canada’s Connectivity Strategy, which initially set out to serve 95% of Canadians by 2026.  We intend to connect all Canadians by 2030.With regards to the riding of Flamborough-Glanbrook specifically, nine projects have been announced in the riding under the UBF’s Rapid Response Stream (RRS), which funds shovel-ready projects that can connect households quickly. These projects will provide high-speed internet access to 1,259 households by fall 2022 and will receive $1.4 million in UBF funding.Additionally, under the core UBF, in July 2021, a federal-provincial co-funding agreement with the Government of Ontario was announced to bring high-speed internet access to nearly 280,000 homes in hundreds of rural communities in Ontario. This agreement is made possible by an equal federal-provincial investment totaling more than $1.2 billion. Projects under this agreement have already begun to be announced and can be viewed on the UBF’s Selected Projects page.Complementary to the Canada-Ontario broadband partnership, the Government of Ontario finalized the results of its reverse auction, which allowed Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to bid for provincial subsidies to connect defined geographic areas to high-speed internet. The Government of Ontario announced on August 4, 2022 the list of successful ISPs as well as the communities to be connected. The area awarded to Rogers includes several communities in the Flamborough-Glanbrook riding.The Government of Canada looks forward to making more core UBF announcements under the Canada-Ontario broadband partnership in the coming months.
Broadband Internet servicesHamilton
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 8, 2023441-01329441-01329 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABApril 25, 2023June 8, 2023September 27, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament229Not certifiedJanuary 13, 2023e-4193e-4193 (Foreign affairs)MansoorManzoorAdamvan KoeverdenMiltonLiberalONDecember 14, 2022, at 11:56 a.m. (EDT)January 13, 2023, at 11:56 a.m. (EDT)January 13, 2023Petition to the<Addressee type="5" affiliationId="278728" mp-riding-display="1"> Minister of Foreign Affairs </Addressee>Whereas:The news of the persecution of journalists and opposition to the Government of Pakistan and their military leadership is very disturbing;To some this may come as a surprise, but to others who are educated on killing of prominent Pakistani Journalist Arshad Sharif on 10/23/2022, this tragedy was unfortunately to be expected;He was forced to leave on self-exile after threats from unknown resources when he criticized the corruption and conspiracies with proofs in his TV programs;In the last 6 months, the opposition members were arrested and faced custodial tortures. Recently, there has been arrest of Senator who claimed to be tortured by agencies; andThere has been assassination attempt on the former PM of Pakistan.We, the undersigned, electors of Milton, Ontario, call upon the Minister of Foreign Affairs to raise the issue with Pakistani Government. The freedom of expression and right to oppose is a fundamental right as per the United Nations charters. As the Government of Canada, you must do better; you must ensure freedom of expression and democracy is honored in Pakistan like you always have raised for some other countries.DemocracyForeign policyFreedom of speechPakistan44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01529441-01529 (Justice)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBJune 13, 2023July 19, 2023March 21, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes";
  • This proposal for the legalized killing of infants is deeply disturbing to many Canadians; and
  • Infanticide is always wrong.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to block any attempt to allow the killing of children.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to babies under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for babies.
ChildrenMedical assistance in dying
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01265441-01265 (Justice)RandyHobackPrince AlbertConservativeSKMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023March 3, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA:Whereas: There are serious concerns regarding the federal government's medical assistance in dying (MAID) legislation;The heads of Psychiatry of all of Canada's 17 medical schools have called for a delay to this legislation; andThe federal government has failed to live up to its promise to fund a Canada Mental Health Transfer, leaving Canadians struggling with mental illness behind.Therefore: We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to delay its expansion of medial assistance in dying (MAID).
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam Van KoeverdenMedical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal issue. The Government of Canada recognizes and respects the diverse views on whether MAID should be permitted for persons suffering solely from a mental illness. The safety and security of the most vulnerable Canadians remains at the forefront of our actions as we take a careful and considered approach on the implementation of MAID for persons living with a mental disorder.On March 9, 2023, through the passing of Bill C-39, the Government extended the temporary exclusion of eligibility for MAID for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness until March 17, 2024. This extension will allow more time for:
  • Consideration of any recommendations arising from the Special Joint Committee on MAID’s final report, tabled in February 2023, alongside the recommendations of the Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness; and,
  • Dissemination and uptake of key resources, such as the Model MAID Practice Standard (released March 27, 2023) and a nationally accredited MAID curriculum, by the medical, nursing, and health provider communities.
We believe that a one-year extension, until March 17, 2024, will provide sufficient time to ensure health system readiness, to disseminate and promote uptake of key resources by the medical and nursing communities, and to fully consider the recommendations in the Special Joint Committee on MAID’s final report. It is imperative that MAID assessors and providers be ready to assess requests for MAID for persons suffering solely from a mental illness in a safe and consistent manner across Canada by the time the extension is over.Health Canada, provinces and territories, and other stakeholders have already made significant progress to prepare for eligibility for MAID for persons whose sole medical condition is a mental illness.On March 27, 2023, a Task Group of experts convened by Health Canada (chaired by Dr. Mona Gupta, former Chair of the Expert Panel) released a Model Practice Standard for MAID. The Practice Standard will help clinicians align their practice with clear guidance and will assist regulators to ensure the protection of the public in the context of more complex cases. Ultimately, this will help ensure MAID practice in Canada operates in a consistent and safe manner across the country.In addition, the Canadian Association of MAID Assessors and Providers is developing and implementing an accredited Canadian MAID curriculum to support clinician education and training, and to address various topics related to the assessment and provision of MAID, including mental disorders and other complex chronic conditions. The curriculum will consist of seven modules. A rolling launch of modules will begin in the late summer of 2023, including a module on MAID and Mental Disorders, with the aim for all modules to be available by the end of 2023.The Model MAID Practice Standard and its supporting documents, along with the MAID training curriculum, will provide valuable resources for regulators and practitioners in interpreting and applying the legislative framework safely in different clinical situations.Supporting the mental health and well-being of Canadians is a priority for the Government of Canada.Through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada is providing $100 million to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, older adults, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Black and other racialized Canadians. The Government is also providing $50 million to support projects that address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma in health care workers, front-line and other essential workers and others affected by the pandemic.Health Canada invested $130 million from 2020-22 in Wellness Together Canada, an online mental health and substance use support portal, and received $140 million in Budget 2022 to support the portal for two more years beginning in 2022-23. Launched in April 2020, Wellness Together Canada provides free and confidential online mental health and substance use supports accessible 24/7 to individuals across Canada in both official languages.Through the Mental Health Promotion Innovation Fund (MHP-IF), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is investing $4.9 million annually in community based mental health promotion projects that focus on reducing systemic barriers. The MHP-IF encourages mental health and well-being during the early years of life by promoting protective factors and addressing the underlying determinants of mental health and health equity for children, youth, young adults, and their caregivers.Budget 2023 confirmed the Government’s commitment to invest close to $200 billion over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to improve health care for Canadians, including $25 billion to Provinces and Territories (PTs) via tailored bilateral agreements which will focus on four key priorities, including improving access to mental health and substance use services and the integration of these services in community family health services.   This investment will build on the Budget 2017 investments, which include $2.4 billion from 2023-24 to 2026-27 still available to PTs for mental health and addictions services.Budget 2023 committed $158.4 million over three years to support the implementation and operation of 988. The introduction of 988 will provide people across Canada with easy-to-remember access to immediate and safe support for suicide prevention and emotional distress. The creation of the 988 service in Canada builds on existing investments received through Budget 2019 for the Pan-Canadian Suicide Prevention Service, where PHAC received $25 million over five years, with $4.2 million per year ongoing. With this funding, the Centre for Addition and Mental Health (CAMH) currently operates Talk Suicide Canada. Talk Suicide Canada provides people across Canada with suicide prevention crisis support from trained responders via phone (24/7) at 1-833-456-4566 and text (evenings) to 45645. Residents of Québec can also call 1-866-277-3553, text 535353 or visit suicide.ca for support by text and online chat.Mental health remains a priority for the Government, and we will continue to invest in it and work with Provinces, Territories, and key stakeholders to support the needs of individuals and communities across the country, now and in the future.
Medical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023441-01352441-01352 (Foreign affairs)PatrickWeilerWest Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky CountryLiberalBCApril 26, 2023June 9, 2023April 26, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:1. Canadian citizens of Iranian descent are wrongfully profiled based on their background and birthplace when travelling to the United States with Canadian passports;2. Law-abiding Canadians, including doctors, nurses, scientists, engineers, pilots, and faculty members who have contributed to Canada's economy and society, are being denied entry to the US without explanation, despite their previous incident-free entries;3. They undergo biometric screening, device searches, and questioning about their background and compulsory conscription in Iran, leading to personal and professional distress for them and endangering their careers. As confirmed by US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, "The primary sanction when it comes to the FTO designation actually is a travel ban, and the people affected by that ban [are conscripts] and they would not be able to travel", adding that: "the people who are the real bad guys have no intention of travelling here anyway.";4. Partners and children, even those born in Canada, are also unjustly flagged as travel risks and denied entry to the US without explanation;5. Canadian families following Customs and Border Protection advice to visit US Consulates endure lengthy administrative processing without explanation, causing economic and emotional strain;6. The Canadians followed proper legal channels and sought a Redress Control Number from the Department of Homeland Security, but the number provided was ineffective in resolving their situation; and7. The Transportation Security Administration added the Canadians' names to travel risk lists shared with US allies, leading to unreasonable secondary screenings for Canadians travelling to/from Canada and deportation from other countries.We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Ask the United States to provide reasons for unjust profiling of Canadians of Iranian descent and long administrative processing of the aforementioned Canadians;
  • Engage and negotiate with the United States Department of State to provide a mandate for impacted Canadian citizens of Iranian descent similar to the "Exercise of Authority Under Federal Registration Vol.87 No.120 (37523) dated on June 23, 2022."; and
  • Take action on the unjust security measures that Canadians face upon leaving and returning to their home, Canada, by removing the unjustified security flags.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada is horrified by the Iranian regime's violence against its own people and their blatant disregard for human rights. That is why our government took significant further action against the Iranian regime. On November 14, 2022 Canada designated the Islamic Republic of Iran as a regime that has engaged in terrorism and in systematic breaches of human rights under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).As a result, tens of thousands of prominent Iranian government officials are now permanently inadmissible to Canada, including heads of state, top IRGC members, intelligence operatives, senior government officials, diplomats, and judges. The Government of Canada, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, engages regularly with members of the Iranian community to hear directly from them with regard to their priorities and concerns, and how we can better hold the Iranian regime to account.The United States, like Canada, has sovereignty over deciding which foreign nationals can cross its border. The United States has a recourse mechanism for anyone deemed inadmissible to the United States which impacted Canadian can explore as appropriate.The Government of Canada understands this issue is having a significant impact on affected Canadians, and Government of Canada officials have been in contact with several affected Canadians. These discussions have been extremely helpful in better understanding the issue.
BordersCanada-United States relationsIranian Canadians
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 16, 2023441-01414441-01414 (Civil and human rights)HeatherMcPhersonEdmonton StrathconaNDPABMay 3, 2023June 16, 2023March 23, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Since their arrival as immigrants in 1750 German and Austrian Canadians have contributed significantly to Canada's development;
  • They helped Britain conquer New France, and of 30,000 German soldiers Britain recruited to help suppress the American Revolution, more than 2,000 remained in Canada;
  • German and Austrian immigrants founded Lunenburg, Moncton, and the Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia, and helped to found York (modern day Toronto) and Berlin (today's Kitchener) in Ontario;
  • Three Canadians of German descent, Charles Fisher (Fischer) William Henry Steeves (Stieff) and Sir Charles Tupper, were Fathers of Confederation;
  • Two German Canadians served as Prime Minister of Canada, Sir Charles Tupper, as 6th and John Diefenbaker, as 13th;
  • During World Wars I and II, innocent German and Austrian Canadians were interned in Canada alongside enemy combatants without regard for their loyalty to Canada; and
  • The Government of Canada has apologized to the Ukrainian Canadian, Japanese Canadian and Italian Canadian communities for the wrongful internment of their members.
We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to apologize for the wrongful internment of German and Austrian Canadians during World Wars I and II, and further request that the Government of Canada commit to never again hold, imprison, or intern innocent Canadians based solely on their ethnic origin.
Response by the Minister of Housing and Diversity and InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Paul ChiangThe Government of Canada would like to thank the petitioners for their request that calls upon the Government of Canada to “apologize for the wrongful internment of German and Austrian Canadians during World Wars I and II”; and “commit to never again hold, imprison, or intern innocent Canadians based solely on their ethnic origin.”The Government of Canada believes in the importance of learning from the past, including the more difficult moments in our history.During both the First and Second World Wars, under the authority of the War Measures Act, the Government of Canada interned or restricted freedoms of people originating from countries with which Canada was at war, and anyone who was deemed to be a security risk. These measures have left an indelible mark on our country’s history and caused pain to the families and descendants of those interned, including members of the German and Austrian communities.The measures that were taken are inconsistent with Canadian values. In 1988, the Government of Canada repealed the War Measures Act. Canada has since chosen to put in place several legal measures that safeguard human rights and recognize the multicultural nature of Canada’s population. These include the Canadian Bill of Rights (1960), the Canadian Human Rights Act (1977), the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982), and the Canadian Multiculturalism Act (1988) which enshrined into law the federal government’s commitment to promoting and maintaining a diverse, multicultural society.The Government recognizes the importance of sharing this history in order to learn from it, and also acknowledges the importance of recognizing the contributions that the German and Austrian communities have and continue to make to the development of Canada, as well as those from other communities such as Italian, Ukrainian and others that were impacted by the internment.In 2008, under the now sunset Community Historical Recognition Program, a $10-million endowment was made to the Shevchenko Foundation to establish the Canadian First World War Internment Recognition Fund. The Fund supports projects that commemorate and recognize the experiences of all of the communities affected by the internment operations of the First World War. It enables them to tell their stories and educate Canadians about the past and the contributions they have made to building Canada.Through National Historical Recognition Program funding, Parks Canada has created an exhibit to increase awareness about Canada's First World War internment operations. The Exhibit is located in Banff National Park where one of the former internment camps was located.A number of Museums have educational information on their websites related to the internment operations.  These include the Canadian War Museum, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier21, and the Canadian Museum of History. Others have screened films or held exhibits on this subject in the past.In 2016, Parliament passed a motion to establish the month of October as German Heritage Month. It provides an opportunity for all Canadians to recognize the German community’s contributions to Canada’s success, with their heritage shaping our social and economic fabric.The Government of Canada is deeply committed to building an inclusive country that we can all be proud of. This tragic episode in our shared history reminds us of the importance of defending our values of openness and inclusion, and the impacts that can result from xenophobia, racism, discrimination, and hate.
Austrian CanadiansGerman CanadiansInternmentOfficial apology
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01493441-01493 (Justice)DanMazierDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaConservativeMBMay 31, 2023September 18, 2023May 12, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The crime rate in Swan River and surrounding area continues to rise and pose a significant threat to public safety, community wellbeing, and economic success;
  • Since 2015, violent crime has increased by 32%, gang-related homicides have increased by 92%, violent, repeat offenders are obtaining bail much more easily, and increasing daily acts of crime and violence are putting Canadians at risk;
  • Swan River's crime severity index — a measure that takes into account how much crime is reported and the seriousness of the crime — increased by over 50% from five years prior; and
  • Local businesses should not have to accept the financial and economic consequences of the government's lack of action in addressing crime.
We, the undersigned, residents of Swan River and area, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Deliver a detailed plan to specifically address the rising rate of crime in rural Canada; and
  • Repeal soft-on-crime and catch-and-release policies that have directly contributed to the rising rate of crime in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniEveryone deserves to live in a society where they are safe and feel safe, and to have confidence that the criminal justice system will protect them and work as intended. This principle applies whether they reside in rural, remote, and northern areas or in cities. The Government of Canada is working closely with its provincial and territorial partners to identify ways to better address rural crime and its unique challenges, and recognizes the challenges that victims and survivors of rural crime can face.Our Government is working to improve the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the criminal justice system and to increase access to justice for victims and survivors, including victims of rural crime. The Federal Victims Strategy, which is led by Justice Canada, has designed and delivered a wide range of policy and programmatic initiatives to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of crime across the country, as well as specific actions focused on rural and remote communities and northern Canada. Federal Victims Strategy resources will continue to be used to build partnerships within the criminal justice system, across sectors, and across jurisdictions, as well as to increase and enhance access to services.Our Government is also adding significant resources to fight crime and prevent violence from happening in the first place. Our Government recently announced an additional $250 million to the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) that will help municipalities and Indigenous communities prevent gun and gang violence by tackling root causes of crime. We had previously announced $390 million in programs to help stop gun crime and gang violence before it starts, bringing our global total to over $500 Million. Our Government will provide this funding, including a $23,120,649 allocation to Manitoba, over the next five years to support a variety of initiatives, including support for law enforcement and prevention programs. This funding builds on the success of the initial Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, announced in 2017.Our Government also introduced Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform), which proposes changes to the Criminal Code’s bail provisions designed to focus on violent repeat offenders, gun and knife violence, as well as intimate partner violence. It aims to promote community safety and reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice. Bill C-48 would enact new reverse onuses at bail to address repeat violent offending involving weapons, including firearms, knives and bear spray, as well as make additional firearms offences subject to a reverse onus. Bill C-48 also proposes changes at the bail stage to broaden the law’s response to intimate partner violence.This Bill is the product of collaboration with the provinces and territories. Canada’s bail system is the joint responsibility of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The proposed changes in Bill C-48 are the result of ongoing cooperation and collaboration with the provinces and territories who play a critical role in administering the bail system and in ensuring it operates as intended. The proposed reforms are also informed by engagement with other partners and stakeholders, including law enforcement and Indigenous partners. While law reform is an important part of maintaining and enhancing public safety, programs, policies and investments are also critical in fostering safer communities. Everyone in Canada expects the government to tackle crime, as well as the causes of crime. Bill C-48 is part of our broader strategy to ensure the safety of all Canadians and an example of what we can achieve when we work together.The office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada recently met with the Mayor of Swan River to discuss Bill C-48. The discussion highlighted several considerations, including: the challenges posed by repeat violent offenders, the role of the provinces in the administration of bail hearings and the enforcement of bail conditions, the need for increased social supports to lessen involvement in the criminal justice system, and the importance of robust and systematic data gathering and sharing to objectively ensure that the bail system is working as intended.The Government will continue to create conditions for safer communities by building on past and present investments.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, P.C, K.C., M.P.Crime in rural and remote communities, including small towns, farming or fishing communities, and Indigenous communities, is a significant and growing concern for many Canadians across the country. This is why, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers responsible for justice and public safety, at their January 2020 meeting, committed to examining and addressing the impact of rural crime and ways to reduce it. To undertake this work, and reflective of the shared responsibility of the federal, provincial, and territorial justice and public safety systems, a Pan-Canadian Strategic Framework on Rural Crime (the Framework) was developed to reflect the diverse and unique regional circumstances of the provinces and territories in Canada.The Framework represents the first comprehensive FPT strategy to better understand, address and combat rural crime to ensure that people in Canada living in rural and remote areas feel safe, secure and protected in their communities. It is designed to be wide in scope. It identifies a combination of objectives and strategies seeking to address both immediate actions that can achieve distinct short-term outcomes, as well as medium-to-long term activities to address complex issues and underlying root causes of crime that require greater levels of resources, time, or consideration. Combined, these objectives and their associated activities seek to result in long-term changes that reduce the incidence of criminal activity in rural and remote communities, including farming, fishing, and Indigenous communities and the northern territories in Canada, and improve the overall safety and well-being of the community.Strategic activities, such as the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and the Juristat on Police-reported crime in rural and urban areas in the Canadian provinces, 2021, have been identified, with officials across the country, for inclusion in the Framework to reflect the diverse nature of rural crime. Those activities are centered around the following seven key strategic areas of focus: Knowledge Development, Prevention, Drug Interdiction, Addressing Victim Needs, Offender Management, Criminal Process Reform, and Enhanced Enforcement Practices.The Framework is a living document developed under the guidance and expertise of justice and public safety officials across the country, and co-exists with a number of other key federal, and/or provincial and territorial initiatives and priorities designed to specifically target and address key issues highlighted in this Framework. These strategies include the Government of Canada’s Gender-Based Violence Strategy, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan. This is reflective of the diverse nature, impacts and causes of rural crime, and the complex, comprehensive measures necessary to combat it.The seriousness of the issue surrounding crimes in rural and remote communities has recently been highlighted by the publication of the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission (MCC), Turning the Tide Together, on March 30, 2023. This report presents relevant findings for rural and remote communities, such as the existence of urban bias in policy making and service delivery contributing to inadequate public infrastructure and services in rural communities.The MCC was established by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, as an independent public inquiry tasked to examine the tragedy that took place in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19, 2020. On May 31, 2023, the federal Minister of Public Safety, and Nova Scotia Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the appointment of Linda Lee Oland as Founding Chair of the Progress Monitoring Committee. In addition to this appointment, the Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the recommendations of the MCC final report, recognizing that the findings and recommendations are applicable to all Canadian jurisdictions.Furthermore, in the coming years, FPT officials and Stakeholders will report on the progress of the Framework to FPT Deputy Ministers and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to inform further action. 
Crime and criminalityRural communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01446441-01446 (Citizenship and immigration)GregMcLeanCalgary CentreConservativeABMay 15, 2023July 19, 2023May 15, 2023Petition to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipWHEREAS:
  • Sudan is facing a political crisis since the military dissolved the power-sharing government and declared a state of emergency;
  • The pro-democracy movement and the security forces have clashed in mass protests and killings; and
  • Ethnic violence has escalated in some regions over land disputes, leading to hundreds of deaths and a state of emergency.
We, the undersigned residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to:
  • Fast track processing of immigration files of Sudanese residents who wish to immigrate to Canada, in particular those who have family who are Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Canada continues to call for an end to violence in Sudan and stands with the Sudanese people as they strive for peace.To support Sudanese nationals in Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced new Temporary measures for Sudanese nationals who are currently in Canada and may be unable to return home due to the rapidly deteriorating situation in their country.As of April 30, 2023, Sudanese nationals can apply for an extension of their status in Canada and move between temporary resident streams, allowing them to continue studying, working or visiting family free of charge. This includes applying for open work permits that provide access to the labour market and greater flexibility to support themselves while they are in Canada. These measures will help ensure the continued safety of the Sudanese population already in Canada, keep families together, and give them a safe place to stay.IRCC also introduced Temporary measures  to support family members of Canadian citizens and Canadian permanent residents who have departed Sudan since the violence erupted.Under these measures, eligible foreign nationals who fled Sudan on or after April 15, 2023 with their Canadian citizen or permanent resident family member(s) may be issued a fee-exempt temporary resident document to facilitate their travel to Canada. Travel must be completed before July 15, 2023. Once in Canada, they will be eligible to apply for a fee-exempt open work permit or study permit, as well as submit a fee-exempt permanent resident application under the family class. Under these measures, a foreign national is eligible for facilitated travel to Canada if they meet the following requirements:
  1. is the family member – per the definition of subsection 1(3) of the Regulations – of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada who left Sudan on or after April 15, 2023;
  2. is outside of Sudan in a third country; and
  3. left Sudan on or after April 15, 2023
Further, to facilitate immigration applications for those still in Sudan so they can travel once it’s safe to do so, IRCC is also prioritizing the processing of completed temporary and permanent residence applications already in the system from people still in the country. This includes visitor visa applications for eligible immediate family members of Canadian citizens and Canadian permanent residents, so they can join their loved ones here in Canada.Canada is also waiving passport and permanent resident travel document fees for citizens and permanent residents of Canada in Sudan who wish to leave.
Immigration and immigrantsSudan
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01579441-01579 (Foreign affairs)ClaudeDeBellefeuilleSalaberry—SuroîtBloc QuébécoisQCJune 21, 2023August 16, 2023June 16, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The illegitimate military junta in Burma continues to indiscriminately kill, torture, rape, imprison and displace civilians, particularly through air strikes, causing an increased need for vital humanitarian assistance;
  • Communications infrastructure within the country, often used to warn civilians of imminent attack, has been destroyed by the military;
  • The state-owned Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprises (MOGE) accounts for the majority of funding the military receives to commit human rights atrocities; and
  • Canada has outlined its own obligation to aid in the Myanmar crisis as reported in "Canada's strategy to respond to the Rohingya and Myanmar crises (2021 to 2024)" as well our commitment under the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) principle.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to:
  • Call on the military junta in Burma to immediately cease all executions, atrocities and human rights abuses against civilians;
  • Increase humanitarian aid into Burma, especially via local civil society organizations working cross-border from neighbouring countries, to more adequately address the needs of vulnerable communities;
  • Provide the technological and logistical support for communication infrastructure to establish early-warning systems and air defence systems to warn and protect civilians from aerial attacks, to save lives and prevent human rights abuses;
  • Call on insurance companies to stop providing insurance cover for deliveries of aviation fuel to Burma;
  • Impose sanctions against MOGE, including blocking direct and indirect oil and gas purchases that support the Burmese regime;
  • Swiftly implement the objectives set out in the aforementioned strategy and uphold our international obligation of R2P;
  • Refuse to engage or recognize the junta's State Administration Council (SAC) in any regional or international fora;
  • Promote ongoing dialogue among pro-democracy groups and diaspora groups, with a view to helping the Burmese people to develop an inclusive democracy with full recognition and representation of all ethnic minority communities, including Rohingya; and
  • Provide assistance to Burma's politicians and citizens to support the development of a federal democratic system and power sharing that would provide a solution for the country of multiethnic people who have been living together before the country could be called Burma.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has unequivocally condemned the February 2021 military coup against the democratically-elected government of Myanmar, and supports the people of Myanmar and their democratic aspirations in the face of brutality and egregious international human rights and humanitarian law violations. Canada continues to call for the cessation of violence and armed conflict; the release of all who are unjustly detained; immediate and unrestricted humanitarian access; and a halt on sales and transfer of arms, military equipment and technical support, which fuel the conflict and undermine stability in the country and the region. Canada is concerned by a growing humanitarian crisis, democratic and economic reversals, reports of egregious human rights and humanitarian law violations, and the potential for growing instability and insecurity in Myanmar, with implications for the region and diminished prospects for the safe, voluntary and dignified return for Rohingya currently in Bangladesh. Canada condemns escalating attacks against civilians, including airstrikes of populated and civilian areas with heavy weaponry, and the arbitrary detention, and deaths of civilians, all of which have deepened the humanitarian crisis.Canada is also concerned by the politicization of the judiciary and the precipitous decline in human rights protections and media freedoms. The erosion of the right to free, fair and impartial trials, and the resumption of capital punishment after a 30-year de-facto moratorium is of particular concern. Canada opposes the death penalty at all times, everywhere. Canada, along with international partners, condemned the execution of pro-democracy opposition leaders and supporters in 2022, underscoring that these actions exemplify the regime’s efforts to silence political opposition and exemplify blatant disregard for the upholding of human rights and the rule of law.Canada supports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) and its resolute efforts to address this crisis through the ASEAN Five-Point-Consensus, while remaining increasingly concerned by lack of progress on this agreement’s implementation in the face of the regime’s intransigence. Full and timely implementation of the Five-Point-Consensus remains critical as is ASEAN’s continued downgrading of Myanmar representation at ASEAN high-level meetings and fora.Responding to the interlinked Myanmar and Rohingya crises remains a priority for Canada. On June 20, 2022, Canada announced the second phase of its Strategy to respond to the Myanmar and Rohingya crises, dedicating $288.3 million over three years (2021-2024) to address the medium- and longer-term needs and human rights of Rohingya refugees and other conflict-affected populations in Myanmar. Of this amount, $83 million supports development programming in Myanmar; $145 million for development programming for Rohingya and host communities in Bangladesh; and $24 million for Peace and Stabilization Operations programming. The Strategy supports at-risk and affected populations in Myanmar and Bangladesh, particularly Rohingya refugees, internally displaced persons, and impacted host communities; intensifies efforts to advance an inclusive and sustainable peace in Myanmar; supports efforts to advance a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Myanmar, including engagement with pro-democracy stakeholders; and, increases pressure on malign actors, including through continued pursuit of accountability for human rights violations and targeted sanctions efforts.While ensuring that no funding or support is going to the regime, Canada continues to provide development and humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable, working through UN and civil society organizations, including local networks and alliance-based partners. Canada continues to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance for crisis-affected populations, in accordance with needs on the ground. For example, in 2022, Canada has contributed $10.3 million in immediate humanitarian assistance to address the needs of crisis-affected people in Myanmar, including support to the Rohingya population. Canada has also contributed $15.3 million in humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh, to help address the needs of Rohingya refugees. More recently, on June 1st, 2023 Canada announced $4 million in additional humanitarian assistance funding in Myanmar, and $1 million in funding for Bangladesh in response to Cyclone Mocha. Cross-border in Bangladesh, Canada continues to play a leading role in marshalling the response to the refugee crisis, leveraging a strong position on accountability and credibility as a top international donor.Canada has a legacy of support for democracy and federalism globally and in Myanmar, continuing to support the democratic aspirations of the Myanmar people and those who work peacefully to advance an inclusive democratic future. Canada engages with the range of pro-democracy stakeholders advancing and modeling a democratic peaceful and inclusive vision for Myanmar, including with high-level engagement such as the recent meeting between Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and a senior appointed representative of the National Unity Government of Myanmar. Canada is a steadfast supporter of the need to address the root causes in Myanmar that led to the violent expulsion of Rohingya refugees to Bangladesh, the coup, and decades of conflict with ethnic minority armed groups. The Government of Canada’s current Strategy and commitments are centred on the meaningful participation and diverse representation, including Rohingya, women and youth.Canada prioritizes ending impunity and ensuring accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations in Myanmar and justice for survivors, including Rohingya. Canada does this through support to the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), and our announced intention to intervene, with the Netherlands, in The Gambia’s case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. Canada strongly supported the historic United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution 2669 – Security Council Demands Immediate End of Violence in Myanmar, Urges Restraint, Release of Arbitrary Detained Prisoners (December 2022), and co-sponsored the United Nations Human Rights Council resolution A/HRC/52/L.19 - Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar (April 2023). At the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Prosecutor’s investigation into allegations of forced deportation as a crime against humanity has presented an opportunity for accountability, although Canada continues to call for the UNSC to refer the situation to the ICC, so that the commission of all serious international crimes under the Rome Statute can be investigated.Canada, in close coordination with international partners, has imposed seven rounds of sanctions since the coup as part of Canada’s commitment to support democracy and ending impunity in Myanmar, with the most recent on January 31, 2023. Canada’s sanctions are in direct response to the regime’s continued disregard for the human rights of the people of Myanmar and target senior members of the regime who are using their respective roles to abuse the rule of law and remove political opposition, thus contributing to a grave breach of international peace and the deteriorating security situation. Through these sanctions, Canada has also targeted arms and aviation fuel procurement, and was the first country to impose a prohibition on aviation fuel in respond to the regime’s continued targeting of civilians in violation of international law. Canada, alongside its international partners, will continue to respond to actions that constitute a grave breach of international peace and security, threaten stability in the region, and subvert the rights and dignity of Myanmar people. Canada will continue to monitor the situation, assessing the effectiveness of additional policy measures, taking further actions in coordination with our partners as the situation evolves.There is no immediate solution to this protracted crisis, and Canada acknowledges that an effective on-going response requires sustained effort, attention, commitment, and leadership on the part of Canada; the meaningful participation of Myanmar people, including Rohingya; and sustained coordination and engagement with key national, regional and international allies and partners. In this regard, we strongly welcome the petition and its calls for continued and strengthened engagement on the part of the Government of Canada.
Civil and human rightsForeign policyMyanmar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01950441-01950 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 22, 2023January 29, 2024June 16, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned citizens, and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • Nearly 100,000 abortions are performed annually in Canada;
  • The Morgentaler Decision to have zero abortion law goes directly against the charter since it DOES NOT protect life;
  • Canada is only one of two, the other nation being North Korea, to have zero abortion laws;
  • Over 98% of abortions are for reasons of social or personal convenience; and
  • The Heartbeat starts when the baby is 5 weeks old.
Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to create/strengthen abortion regulation nationwide.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyOur Government has always and will always support a woman’s right to choose. Everyone has the right to make decisions about their health and body. The Supreme Court of Canada in 1988 struck down Canada’s criminal law against abortion, and the Government took the necessary steps to complete the repeal of those provisions by introducing amendments to take them off the books, which were enacted in 2019. Our Government is committed to upholding all the rights enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, including section 7, which provides that everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice. Section 7 includes some protection against government interference with an individual’s access to abortion care. Section 7 also generally protects an individual’s right to control their bodily integrity, and a sphere of personal autonomy involving inherently private choices that go to the core of what it means to enjoy individual dignity and independence. Our government will always protect and promote women’s rights in Canada and around the world.
Abortion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 8, 2023441-01658441-01658 (Justice)JohnWilliamsonNew Brunswick SouthwestConservativeNBSeptember 25, 2023November 8, 2023June 14, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:There are many recent disturbing reports of people accessing euthanasia in Canada due to lack of adequate access to care and support;Legalization of state-administered or supervised killing of those suffering from mental health challenges will undermine suicide prevention efforts;Louis Roy of the Quebec College of Physicians recommended infanticide by expanding euthanasia to "babies from birth to one year of age who come into the world with severe deformities and very serious syndromes."; andInfanticide is always wrong.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call on the Government of Canada and on Parliament to:1. Repeal Bill C-7 and protect Canadians struggling with mental illness by facilitating treatment and recovery, not death; and2. Reject the expansion of euthanasia to children and infants.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyCanada’s medical assistance in dying (MAID) regime permits persons who meet all the eligibility criteria in section 241.2 of the Criminal Code to receive MAID. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request for MAID and consent to receiving it, and, as such, eligibility for MAID cannot be extended to infants under the existing framework. The Government of Canada has no intention of creating exemptions to criminal offences to permit MAID for infants.
C-7, An Act to amend the Parliament of Canada Act and to make consequential and related amendments to other ActsChildrenHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01821441-01821 (Transportation)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONOctober 25, 2023December 11, 2023October 23, 2023Petition to the Minister of Transport Whereas:
  • Quality of life is negatively affected by a high frequency of air traffic occurring near residential areas, including from related stress and interrupted sleep;
  • There is a need for greater cooperation on the part of airport management with citizens and federal authorities to reduce the negative impacts of aircraft noise;
  • The Region of Waterloo International Airport (RWIA) is home to one of the largest and busiest flight training schools in Canada, and its total air traffic has increased by over 1,400% between 2019 and 2022, making it now the 6th busiest in Canada;
  • The negative impacts for residents nearby RWIA have worsened significantly during this time, particularly given that the airport: does not have any night time flight restrictions or curfews in place, permits pilots to arrive and depart at any hour of the day or night, and has not maintained a functioning noise management committee with citizen representation that meets regularly to review residents' complaints; and
  • Canada's other busiest airports near residential areas in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Hamilton, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal are all subject to heightened noise management requirements and air traffic and runway restrictions.
We, the undersigned residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Transport to:
  • Ensure that all Canadian airports near residential areas have established sufficient airport-specific noise abatement procedures and control requirements to meet all their obligations under the Canadian Aviation Regulations; and
  • Assess whether any other Canadian airports near residential areas should be subject to additional noise management requirements and restrictions, such as:
      • the requirement to develop a minister-approved Noise Management Plan and report publicly on noise management issues and actions;
      • heightened noise abatement procedures and controls, and operating restrictions on flights during night time hours; and/or
      • operating restrictions for designated Noise-Restricted Runways.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezManaging noise at aerodromes, especially active aerodromes, is a difficult exercise for the aerodrome operators, residential neighbours, aerodrome users and all levels of government. Aerodrome operators are responsible for managing noise resulting from the use of their facility with the goal of balancing the needs of aerodrome users and those of the residential community. This can be a challenging endeavour that is best managed by the aerodrome operator as they are most familiar with the operational demands and circumstances at the aerodrome. Many tools exist to manage noise such as aircraft and runway operational procedures and operating restrictions. Such procedures and restrictions exist at many aerodromes and are published in the aviation document entitled Canada Flight Supplement (CFS). Many of these procedures and restrictions have been made enforceable through the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR). There are specific procedures or restrictions that have been published for the Region of Waterloo International Airport (RWIA).  The RWIA has a page on its website that allows people to submit noise concerns. Petitioners can propose to the operator of the RWIA to establish a venue for communication and discussion such as an on-going outreach committee or a noise management committee. In collaboration with the aerodrome management and its users, changes to the existing procedures or restrictions could be explored in a manner that could provide some relief. As experiences with such measures grows, they can be modified accordingly. For more information on the regulatory framework related to aircraft noise, please refer to: 
  1. Managing noise from aircraft: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/operating-airports-aerodromes/managing-noise-aircraft 
  1. Advisory Circular (AC) 302-002. The purpose of this AC is to introduce the new?Noise Abatement Procedures and Restrictions Implementation Process, the completion of which is now required to implement new or amended noise abatement procedures and noise control measures made pursuant to CAR 602.105, at airports and aerodromes: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/reference-centre/advisory-circulars/advisory-circular-ac-no-302-002 
 
Air trafficAirportsNoise and noise pollution
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01926441-01926 (Transportation)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCNovember 20, 2023January 29, 2024October 23, 2023Petition to Government of Canada WHEREAS:
  • In the past, British Columbians had access to passenger rail services across much of the province, including routes from North Vancouver to Prince George and Victoria to Parksville;
  • The existing West Coast Express route from Mission to Vancouver only runs during peak hours on weekdays; and
  • Passenger rail services help to connect communities, acting as a lifeline for many rural and remote communities.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Transport to work with their provincial counterpart in British Columbia to restore and expand passenger rail service to communities across the province.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezTransportation affects the daily lives of Canadians, and the Government is committed to providing travellers with a national transportation system that is safe, reliable, and continues to serve the transportation needs of all Canadians, including British Columbians.Regarding intercity passenger rail services, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance that these services play in supporting the quality of life of Canadians, including seniors and students as well as rural, remote, and Indigenous communities. The Government will continue to support and transform these services to promote a cleaner transportation system.That is why, the Government invested $210 million starting in 2023-24 to support maintenance on VIA Rail’s fleet used for long-distance and regional services. This includes VIA Rail’s services in British Columbia such as the Skeena service between Prince Rupert to Jasper and the Canadian running from Toronto to Vancouver. The Government has also invested more than $13 million in VIA Rail stations in British Columbia since 2018.As noted, local public transit services also play an important part in connecting Canadians. This includes the West Coast Express, which provides Translink operated commuter rail service that connects Downtown Vancouver to Mission City, and points in between.The Government of Canada works with partners, including the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure as well as Translink, to support public transit and active transportation networks. This support creates jobs and makes communities cleaner, more accessible, more sustainable, and livable for everyone. Since 2015, the Government has announced more than $30 billion for more than 1,400 public transit projects across the country. Through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), the Government of Canada has allocated $33 billion to support infrastructure investments in Canada. Through ICIP, the Government is investing over $3.9 billion in British Columbia including support for the Millennium Line Broadway Extension project, the Expo and Millennium Upgrade Program project, and the Surrey Langley Skytrain project. As announced by the Prime Minister in 2021, the Government of Canada will invest billions of dollars to provide predictable federal public transit funding which will be available to support reliable, fast, affordable, and clean public transit solutions beginning in 2026-27 through the new permanent public transit funding.The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring the national transportation system meets the mobility needs of Canadians and will continue to support and engage with provinces and territories in addressing these needs.
British ColumbiaRail passenger transportation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01972441-01972 (Health)MarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonConservativeONDecember 6, 2023January 29, 2024November 28, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding protecting young persons online – a very important issue. The Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians. As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content, including child sexual exploitation content and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.The Government is committed to getting this right. The Government of Canada has held extensive consultations on the design of a legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. This includes a consultation in the summer of 2021; the advice from an Expert Advisory Group on online safety; direct perspectives from Canadians who participated in a Citizen’s Assembly; and engagement in roundtables with the Minister of Canadian Heritage in every province, as well as on a series of thematic issues in online safety.All of this engagement and consultation has been undertaken in an open and transparent manner, so that all interested parties can follow along, and can be found here: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlThe Government intends to introduce legislation reflecting its consultations and engagement soon.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 29, 2024441-01925441-01925 (Social affairs and equality)MarkGerretsenKingston and the IslandsLiberalONNovember 20, 2023January 29, 2024November 8, 2023Petition to The Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodWHEREAS:
  • School food programs are recognized around the world as essential to the health, well-being and education of students with over 388 million children in at least 161 countries receiving free or subsidized school meals at school;
  • New data from Statistics Canada (2022) indicates 1 in 4 children in Canada lives in a food-insecure household;
  • Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program; and
  • Budget 2022 reaffirmed the December 2021 mandate letter commitments for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by directing them to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and to explore how more Canadian children can receive nutritious food at school, and public consultations took place through November - December 2022.
We, the undersigned, members of the Clarendon Central Public School community and residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington region, call upon the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to prioritize funding for a National School Food Program through Budget 2024 for implementation in schools by Fall 2024.
Response by the Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Élisabeth BrièreThe Government of Canada is committed to working with the provinces and territories, municipalities, Indigenous partners, and key stakeholders to develop a National School Food Policy and explore how more children in Canada can receive nutritious food at school. Work to fulfill this commitment is ongoing and remains a key priority.To advance and inform this work, the government has and continues to engage with a broad range of stakeholders from across Canada, including through bilateral conversations and roundtables, and has also sought the views of Canadians through an online questionnaire. The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development has also visited school food programs and met with stakeholders in many communities across Canada.Through these engagement activities, we have gained a better understanding of the current school food landscape, as well as views on principles and objectives that could shape a National School Food Policy. Stakeholders highlighted that school meal programs can have multiple social, health, environmental and economic benefits and can play a role in increasing access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for children, especially those from low-income or food-insecure households.On October 31, 2023, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food released a “What We Heard” Report that summarizes the views that were shared during these engagements on a National School Food Policy.The Government of Canada recognizes that this is a challenging time for many families and that global inflation has made it more difficult to make ends meet. The Government of Canada has taken recent action to deliver inflation relief to Canadians. For example, the Government provided a one-time Grocery Rebate payment that provided eligible couples with two children with up to an extra $467. We also recently proposed amendments to the Competition Act to enhance competition, particularly in the grocery sector, which would help drive down costs of food.In addition, the Government of Canada has made significant investments through targeted social programs and income supplements to reduce poverty and increase well-being. This in turn helps improve Canadians’ ability to meet their basic needs, including access to nutritious food. These programs and benefits include the following:•         the Canada Child Benefit, which provides substantial tax-free income support to families raising children;•         New Canadian Dental Care Plan;•         the newly expanded Canada Workers Benefit, which supports workers earning lower wages;•         the Employment Insurance program; and•         the creation of a Canada-wide early learning and child care system with a significant reduction in fees.
ChildrenSchool meal programsSchool meals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01680441-01680 (Fisheries)JohnWilliamsonNew Brunswick SouthwestConservativeNBSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023September 19, 2023Petition to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardWhereas:The Grand Manan Wharf project sits incomplete over a contract dispute with the contractor; The large mountains of contaminated material are left entirely blocking our water view at our seasonal restaurant; and This is having an immense negative impact on our small business and general public morale.We, the undersigned, Residents and visitors of Grand Manan, New Brunswick, call upon the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard to Remove the dredged material from the site-as promised by Public Works, the DFO and the contractor, Greenfield Construction.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Diane LebouthillierFisheries and Oceans Canada’s (DFO) Small Craft Harbours (SCH) program is responsible for operating and maintaining a national system of harbours that provide commercial fish harvesters and other harbour users with safe and accessible facilities. SCH network consists of 949 harbours, of which 691 are considered core harbours that are essential to the commercial fishing industry and 258 non-core harbours, which have low fishing activity and are candidates for divestiture.In its efforts to keep harbours safe and accessible, DFO must carry out construction projects at various harbours that fall under SCH program. One such project was undertaken at North Head harbour, located on Grand Manan Island, in New Brunswick in the spring of 2021.The project at North Head involves dredging, construction of a new marginal wharf, the addition of a boat ramp, as well as improvements to the breakwater located on the far side of the harbour’s basin. The project is significant and will ensure the continued safe operation of North Head harbour and its fleet of approximately 80 commercial fish harvesters.Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is responsible for the administration of the contract  between Canada and the contractor responsible for the project. PSPC is assuming this role on behalf of DFO.As a result of the dredging portion of the project, dredge material has been stored on the construction site. The contractor is responsible for the disposal of the dredged material. A portion of this material will be reused at the site, as part of the construction project. Another portion will be disposed of at the local construction and demolition site, and a third portion will be transported by truck and ferry to an approved disposal site located off of Grand Manan Island.Work at the construction site stopped for a period of time while the contractor was waiting for environmental permits from the government of New Brunswick. These permits, which allow for the disposal of dredge material at the approved local disposal facility have been obtained, and removal of the dredged material has begun.Based on the most recent project schedule provided by the contractor, the construction project at North Head is expected to be completed by the end of May 2024.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Charles SousaThe Government of Canada is committed to renewing vital infrastructure, such as small craft harbours, that support the economic growth and development of communities in New Brunswick and across the country.Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) continues to advance the work at North Head in Grand Manan and is aware of delays with the projected timelines for completion. The department understands the concerns that community members have expressed over the delays. PSPC and Fisheries and Oceans Canada are actively working with the contractor to ensure that the remaining work can be completed as quickly as possible.  At the end of August 2023, the contractor obtained the required provincial approvals to move 10,000 cubic metres of dredged material, which is approximately one third of the material currently on site. It will be disposed of at the Grand Manan Construction and Demolition site. This work began the first week of October and is expected to be take approximately 20 working days.Based on the results of ongoing testing, a disposal method for the remaining dredged material will be established. It is anticipated that a portion of the material will be reused on site and a portion will be transported to an approved off-island disposal site.The dredging work is approximately 70% completed, and the contractor is scheduled to finish the dredging by the end of November 2023.
Environmental clean-upPorts and harbours
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02110441-02110 (Business and trade)BrendaShanahanChâteauguay—LacolleLiberalQCFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024February 6, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWHEREAS:Bill C-57 is an important update to the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement that will assist Ukraine in rebuilding after they defeat the illegal invasion by Vladimir Putin;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress has called on the Parliament of Canada to swiftly adopt this legislation; andMisinformation regarding Canada's carbon pricing scheme having an effect on this agreement has been widely debunked.THEREFORE: we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons and all parliamentarians to re-affirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine by swiftly adopting the updated Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement.
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuThe Government of Canada condemns Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war is a blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and a threat to global peace and security. President Putin’s war of choice is a war on freedom, democracy, and the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on Russian leadership. The Government of Canada’s support to Ukraine has been comprehensive. With a long relationship dating back to the end of the Cold War, Canada drew on a strong foundation of bilateral assistance and diplomatic ties when Russia launched a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Since 2022, the Government of Canada has committed over $13.3 billion in multifaceted assistance to Ukraine. Assistance is diverse and all-encompassing, including military, development, humanitarian, security and stabilization and financial assistance.  Support through financial assistance, expertise, sanctions, and diplomacy also addresses vitally important challenges such as constraining Russia's ability to finance its war, holding Russia to account for massive violations of international law and violations of human rights in Ukraine, as well as countering Russian disinformation, and addressing the global impact of the war on food security and energy.Diplomatically, Canada has played a central role in supporting the six United Nations General Assembly resolutions denouncing the war as illegal and issuing statements and other actions across multiple multilateral organizations to hold Russia to account. Canada has also played a key leadership role across G7, G20, NATO, and other groupings, leading to an unsurpassed level of collective action and coordination.Another form of Canadian support to Ukraine is through the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), a comprehensive, high-standard agreement that, once implemented, will strengthen the foundation on which Canadian and Ukrainian businesses can work together in the economic reconstruction of Ukraine. Building on the original 2017 CUFTA which was a comprehensive goods-focussed agreement, Canada and Ukraine launched negotiations to modernize the agreement to include various new chapters on trade in services, investment, and other areas. The final modernized CUFTA was signed by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in Ottawa on September 22, 2023. The Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Ukraine, Bill-C57, was later introduced in Parliament where opposition to the Bill has been raised regarding the inclusion of carbon pricing in the CUFTA Environment chapter.The Environment chapter recognizes that trade has an important role in addressing the threat to climate and includes several provisions to facilitate cooperation between Canada and Ukraine on matters of mutual interests regarding trade and the environment, including on carbon pricing. These provisions, which are cooperation-based in nature and not binding on either party, are included to facilitate cooperation between our two countries and would only apply if Canada and Ukraine agree to cooperate after considering factors such as national priorities, circumstances, and availability of resources. However, it should be noted that the Agreement does not include any provisions requiring the implementation of a carbon tax. Additionally, carbon pricing has been in place since 2019 in Canada while Ukraine introduced a carbon tax in 2011, which covers all types of fuels, to address CO2 emissions from industry, power, and buildings sectors.
Canada-Ukraine Free Trade AgreementTrade agreementsUkraine
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02157441-02157 (Democratic process)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABFebruary 14, 2024March 22, 2024February 12, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • We, the citizens of Canada, have lost confidence in Justin Trudeau and the Liberal/NDP coalition;
  • We call on the house for a vote of no confidence;
  • We ask for an election 45 days after the vote if won;
  • The current government elected is not acting in the best interest of all citizens;
  • The policies of this government aren't aligning with the crisis Canada is facing: housing costs, infringement of civil liberties, highest inflation in history, unbalanced immigration policies, taxation to the point of poverty, weakening of our economy by importing natural resources that Canada already has and under-utilizes; and
  • Based on the past eight years of this Prime Minister, Canadians do not have confidence in this Prime Minister, after five ethics investigations and Canada's reputation being tarnished on a global scale under his leadership, to the extent that Canada is being excluded from participating in statements regarding important geopolitical events.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to call for a vote of no confidence and a federal election 45 days following the vote.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JENNIFER O’CONNELLAs Canadians, we are blessed to live in a free and democratic country.In 2021, we collectively exercised the democratic rights guaranteed to us by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Canada Elections Act. In the 44th General Election since Confederation, a total of 17,209,811 Canadian citizens exercised their right to vote, and to freely choose from among 2,010 fellow citizens who put themselves forward as candidates. We should all take pride in the fact that Canadians continue to be so deeply engaged in our democratic process and its institutions.Under our system of Parliamentary and responsible government, we continue to govern with the confidence of the House of Commons. We are accountable to Parliament and to Canadians, whether through Parliament proceedings, the scrutiny of the free press, and the many formal and informal ways in which Government and elected Members of Parliament engage with concerned citizens, organizations, and civil society every day.We continue to work to make Canada a place where we can all thrive. Our agenda as a Government includes measures to make life more affordable for Canadians, whether through investing in child care and dental care, or by improving important benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit, Canada Pension Plan, OAS, and the Guaranteed Income Supplement. We are helping Canadians create new middle class jobs by tackling supply chain challenges, doubling the Tradespeople’s Tool Deduction, and promoting international trade to bring Canadian goods and services to the global marketplace. And we are protecting our environment for future generations by greening our electrical grid, electrifying our transport sector, and investing in the critical mineral sector that makes Canada a world leader.The Government is proud of this record. We continue to work hard to retain the confidence of Parliament for the remainder of this term, and Canadian citizens will once again exercise their democratic rights in the 45th General Election.
Confidence in government
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 27, 2024441-02214441-02214 (Health)BrendaShanahanChâteauguay—LacolleLiberalQCFebruary 27, 2024February 16, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAPetition to address online harms to childrenWHEREAS:There is a growing number of reports of Canadian children being exposed to online sexual extortion and as well as other serious harms via unfiltered access to platforms that either directly or indirectly subject children to sexually explicit material and the risk of being targeted by online child predators; andParliamentarians in both the House of Commons and the Senate have studied this issue including the House of Commons Health Committee which reported in 2017 that the committee heard "that parents need greater support to help protect children from unwanted exposure to sexually explicit material" as well as hearing "that technology companies should work to create better online content filters and tools that empower parents to protect children while they are online".WE, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Immediately table comprehensive legislation addressing the issue of online harms to children that will support parents and guardians in protecting children from online predators and unwanted exposure to sexually explicit material as well as holding technology companies accountable for ensuring any online platform accessible to children is safe for children.
InternetPornographyYoung people
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 26, 2024441-02205441-02205 (Health)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKFebruary 26, 2024December 14, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:Whereas sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence - can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;Whereas the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence - including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Whereas Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Whereas online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights;Whereas anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andWhereas online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 27, 2024441-02219441-02219 (Food and drink)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCFebruary 27, 2024February 5, 2024Petition to the Government of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:
  • Farmers' Markets are a key tool for Covid-19 recovery as small business incubators, domestic system and food security builders and local economy community builders; Farmers' Market Coupon Programs are a key support for new Market development and support for existing Markets and their provincial Associations;
  • Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs help create food security and resiliency by giving vulnerable people access to healthy locally grown foods and dietary education while positively impacting the physical and mental health of participants by increasing the amount and diversity of fruits and vegetables they consume;
  • The BC Farmers' Market Association, with 135 member markets and 4000+ vendors, and its long-term partnership with the Province of BC provides almost 16000 vulnerable families, seniors and pregnant women with access to weekly coupons, and sees close to $2 million flow to local farmers annually. Its current program has an average coupon redemption rate of over 91%, and 79% of the participants claim the Program made a long-term change in their eating habits;
  • Demand for coupons far outstretches availability. Every community which has a Coupon Program has a waitlist of eligible individuals; and
  • A national matching program would assist in meeting those demands, encourage provinces without a provincial program to create one, and support those provinces who have a provincial program to expand to meet demand.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Motion M-66 and initiate a national program for all provincial Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs (FMNCPS) that would match provinces who are already contributing to their FMNCPs, and help provinces that do not have FMNCPs with program development.
Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon ProgramFarmers marketsFood and drinkFood supply
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 15, 2024441-02174441-02174 (Justice)ToddDohertyCariboo—Prince GeorgeConservativeBCFebruary 15, 2024February 5, 2024Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:
  • The Trudeau government has attempted to ban and seize the hunting rifles and shotguns of millions of Canadians;
  • The targeting of farmers and hunters does not fight crime; and
  • The Trudeau government has failed those who participate in the Canadian traditions of sport-shooting.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to stop any and all current and future bans on hunting and sport-shooting firearms.
FirearmsHunters
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02044441-02044 (Taxation)PeterJulianNew Westminster—BurnabyNDPBCJanuary 31, 2024March 18, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02102441-02102 (Taxation)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024January 19, 2024PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02136441-02136 (Taxation)DanAlbasCentral Okanagan—Similkameen—NicolaConservativeBCFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024December 13, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Volunteer firefighters account for 71% of Canada's total firefighting essential first responders;
  • In addition, approximately 8,000 essential search and rescue volunteers respond to thousands of incidents every year;
  • The tax code of Canada currently allows volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers to claim a $3,000 tax credit if 200 hours of volunteer services were completed in a calendar year;
  • This works out to a mere $450 per year, which we allow these essential volunteers to keep of their own income from their regular jobs, $2.25 an hour;
  • If they volunteer more than 200 hours, which many do, this tax credit becomes even less;
  • These essential volunteers not only put their lives on the line and give their time, training and efforts to Canadians, but they also allow cities and municipalities to keep property taxes lower than if paid services were required;
  • Increasing this tax credit would allow these essential volunteers to keep more of their hard-earned money, likely to be spent in the communities in which they live; and
  • It would also help retain these volunteers in a time when volunteerism is decreasing.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-310 and enact amendments to subsections 118.06(2) and 118.07(2) of the Income Tax Act in order to increase the amount of the tax credits for volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer services from $3,000 to $10,000.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe community service shown by volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers, especially following the extraordinary fire season over the past summer, is exemplary. The Government of Canada recognizes this service through the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Tax Credit.In addition to this credit, the government has committed to improving the resources available to emergency service volunteers. For this reason, Budget 2022 provided additional funding for firefighters and for wildfire detection and mitigation, including:
  • $269 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Natural Resources Canada as exceptional, time-limited support to help provinces and territories procure firefighting equipment such as vehicles and aircrafts;
  • $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to Indigenous Services Canada to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities;
  • $37.9 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, with $0.6 million ongoing, to Natural Resources Canada to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management; and
  • $169.9 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, with $6.9 million in remaining amortization, to the Canadian Space Agency, Natural Resources Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.
These actions will help ensure greater volunteer safety in the line of duty and will help ensure a higher degree of emergency preparedness in their communities.
C-310, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (volunteer firefighting and search and rescue volunteer tax credit)Emergency servicesTax credits
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02104441-02104 (Employment and labour)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKFebruary 7, 2024March 22, 2024December 11, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:Employment Insurance (El) maternity and parental benefits provide parents with critical financial support while they care for and bond with their new child;Having a parent at home longer in the critical first year of a child's life or placement within a family better supports healthy attachment and the well-being of the child;Adoptive and intended parents are at a disadvantage under the current El system;All parents are deserving of equal access to parental leave benefits;Bill C-318 delivers equitable access to parental leave for adoptive and intended parents; andThe Speaker of the House of Commons has ruled that the passage of Bill C-318 requires a royal recommendation.We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support adoptive and intended parents by providing a royal recommendation for Bill C-318.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official LanguagesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views and notes the request to support adoptive and intended parents through Employment Insurance (EI) benefits.The arrival of a new child is a precious and exciting time for parents. This is equally true for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents.On November 21, 2023, the Fall Economic Statement announced that a new 15-week shareable adoption benefit would be introduced in the EI program. This benefit is expected to provide approximately 1,700 Canadian families each year with additional time and flexibility as they welcome a new child in their home. Parents who form their families via surrogacy will also be eligible for this benefit. Bill C-59, An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023, and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, proposes amendments to the EI Act to implement this new benefit, along with corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure job-protected leave for employees in the federally regulated private sector.The new benefit for parents through adoption and surrogacy responds to what the Government heard during its comprehensive consultations on the EI program in 2021 and 2022. It will provide for an equal number of weeks of EI benefits for adoptive and intended parents as for biological parents, making EI benefits more inclusive of the way families are formed.The Government of Canada recognizes the diverse challenges faced by working parents raising children. Balancing family, work and financial considerations is a challenging task for Canadians raising children, and each family has its own needs. That is why we have made changes since 2017 to give parents more flexibility in their use of EI maternity and parental benefits. These include earlier access to maternity benefits, the choice of standard or extended parental benefits, and additional weeks of parental benefits when shared.We will continue to ensure that the EI program responds to the needs of today’s workforce, including for adoptive parents. EI is a significant income support program. Introducing a new benefit for adoptive parents needs to align with the implementation of the Government’s other priorities on EI.  Once again, the government wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in our ongoing efforts to improve the EI program.
C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)Employment insuranceParental leave
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 26, 2024441-02210441-02210 (Social affairs and equality)AndyFillmoreHalifaxLiberalNSFebruary 26, 2024February 26, 2024Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • In November 2020, the final report of the Prince Edward Island Special Committee on Poverty in PEI recommended that the Government of Prince Edward Island begin immediate negotiations with the Government of Canada to develop and implement a Basic Income Guarantee demonstration program for Prince Edward Island;
  • This report has the support of all political parties in Prince Edward Island; and
  • This demonstration Program will benefit all of Canada, as poverty is the primary social determinant of heath and requires bold and creative approaches to understand and address its root causes and consequences in Canada.
THEREFORE, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to begin immediate negotiations with the Government of Prince Edward Island to develop and implement a Basic Income Guarantee demonstration program in the province of PEI that will be administered, monitored, and evaluated for at least five years.
Guaranteed annual incomePrince Edward Island
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02150441-02150 (Health)EricDuncanStormont—Dundas—South GlengarryConservativeONFebruary 12, 2024March 22, 2024February 12, 2024PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS:Sexually explicit material - including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons;A significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method;The consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence including sexual harassment and sexual violence - particularly against women;Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern;Online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; Anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; andOnline age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-210, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Taleeb NoormohamedThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the protection of young people online, especially with regard to the consumption of sexually explicit material. This is an important issue. The Government recently tabled online harms legislation (Bill C-63), which recognizes the need to better protect children online.Bill C-63 proposes to create the Online Harms Act, whichaims to promote online safety by reducing exposure to harmful content on social media services, with a special emphasis on protecting children.The Online Harms Act imposes three statutory duties that establish minimum standards that services must meet to ensure the safety of Canadians online:
  1. Duty to Act Responsibly
  2. Duty to Protect Children
  3. Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible
The Duty to Act Responsibly establishes a standard of conduct that social media services must follow to ensure the safety of users on their platforms and to create more transparency and accountability about how they deal with harmful content.The Duty to Protect Children requires social media services to provide protections for children online including the integration of age-appropriate design features on their platforms and to be more transparent by reporting on the specific measures that they are taking to protect children. Design features could include things like defaults for parental controls, default settings related to warning labels for children, or safe search settings for a service’s internal search function. They could also include design features to limit children’s exposure to harmful content, including explicit adult content, cyberbullying content and content that incites self-harm.The Duty to Make Certain Content Inaccessible requires social media services to expeditiously remove two categories of content from their services: 
  1. Content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor, and 
  2. Intimate content communicated without consent. 
The Act also creates a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee and enforce the Act; a Digital Safety Ombudsperson of Canada to advocate for and support victims and a Digital Safety Office of Canada which supports both administratively. Part of the Digital Safety Commission’s mandate would be to enforce the removal of content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor and intimate content communicated without consent; and to promote societal resilience to harms online and set new standards for online safety by providing guidance to services on how to mitigate risk, perform research, work with stakeholders, and develop educational resources for the public, including children and parents. Overall, the Digital Safety Commission would be able to enact guidelines and regulations under the three duties, which would allow the legislation to be adaptable and to grow over time as the landscape of harmful content affecting children changes.The Government has also looked at efforts in other jurisdictions to protect children from explicit sexual content and other harmful content online. It has reviewed the United Kingdom’s 'Age-Appropriate Design Code' that requires regulated services to develop age assurance tools and other measures to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content by children. And it has watched with interest as Australia has indicated it will prioritize industry codes over mandatory age verification to address children’s access to online pornography.The Online Harms legislation was developed following extensive consultations by the Government of Canada since 2021, including public consultations, an Expert Advisory Group on Online Safety, a Citizens’ Assembly on Democratic Expression focused on online safety, and 22 online and virtual roundtables across Canada, as well as consultations held in 2020 by the Minister of Justice, when he was Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice. During these engagements there was strong consensus for protecting children and youth from online harm. Summaries of consultations can be found online https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlOverall, the Government believes Bill C-63 would create stronger online protections for children and better safeguard everyone in Canada from online hate and other types of harmful content. It would hold online platforms, including livestreaming and user-uploaded adult content services, accountable for reducing users’ exposure to harmful content on their platforms and help prevent its spread.Despite its important policy objective, we do not believe that Bill S-210 is the best way to achieve the goal of protecting children online. It is a partial, piecemeal solution that ignores many of the most harmful forms of content that affect children online, including cyberbullying, incitement to self-harm, and child-sexual-abuse material. Furthermore, the bill has a broad scope and would regulate more websites than just adult websites and more content than pornographic content, it imposes unrealistic timelines for implementation and compliance, it raises a range of potential privacy risks, and it relies on website blocking which is a contentious enforcement mechanism with freedom of expression risks. 
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01746441-01746 (Health)MelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapConservativeBCOctober 6, 2023November 20, 2023September 20, 2023Petition to the Government of Canada and the Minister of HealthWhereas: Health Canada is proposing to significantly change natural health product (NHPs) regulations; We rely on NHPS, which include basic everyday products such as supplements, toothpaste, vitamins, probiotics, and mineral SPF, as part of our proactive healthcare;If we don't act immediately, consumer prices will rise significantly, and consumer choice will decline drastically, when inflation is at an all-time high and access to healthcare is at an all-time low;Health Canada recently proposed new and significant fees to import, manufacture, and sell NHPs at the same time they are implementing new labelling laws;This is unfair, unrealistic, and so costly to industry that it will force many small to medium-sized businesses to shut down Canadian operations;The burden of these costs for those that can afford the changes will be passed down to the consumer, and these are not changes or fees Canadians can afford;Increasing fees and additional labelling does not promote safety for taking NHPs, it makes products more expensive; andIn fact, this overregulation will force consumers to seek out products online which could lead people purchasing non-compliant, unregulated NHPs from outside of Canada.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Health to work with the industry to embrace modern labelling and adjust Health Canada's proposed cost recovery rates to accurately reflect the size and scope of the industry; and that new regulatory changes should only be implemented once the Self-Care Framework is adjusted and backlogs are cleared, operations run efficiently, and there are policies and procedures in place to ensure the stable operations continue.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Minister Mark HollandHealth Canada recognizes that natural health products (NHPs) are important to Canadians to help support and maintain their health and is committed to supporting access to natural health products that are safe and of high quality.While NHPs are generally lower risk products, that does not mean they are without risk, especially if products are contaminated, or used improperly.In 2021, the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development completed an audit of Health Canada’s NHP program and found both strengths and areas for improvement. Health Canada committed to undertaking a number of initiatives to improve the oversight of these products.In an effort to make natural health products safer for consumers and support Canadians in making informed choices, Health Canada recently introduced two important regulatory and legislative changes:
  • In July 2022, after extensive consultation and feedback from stakeholders, Health Canada introduced new regulatory requirements to make natural health product labels easier for Canadians to read and understand. This includes, for example, increased font size and improved colour contrast.
  • In June 2023, Parliament passed legislation enabling Health Canada to take more action if a serious risk to health is identified with a natural health product. This legislation allows Health Canada to order recalls or add warnings to labels, if necessary, which the Department could not do before.
Presently, NHPs are the only line of health products where the regulatory activities are fully funded by Canadian taxpayers.Health Canada knows that many NHP companies are small businesses and is committed to supporting them. The Department is considering measures to help alleviate the impact of fees on businesses.  This includes fee reductions of 25% to 50% and a full waiver of pre-market evaluation fees for small businesses marketing their first product.Health Canada is actively reviewing thousands of comments received on its fee proposal, including those relating to the proposed fee reductions for small businesses, as part of an open and transparent consultation process with Canadians and businesses. At this time,  Health Canada is considering how best to adjust the  proposed approach to address concerns raised prior to further engagement with stakeholders.Ultimately, this initiative is about ensuring Canadians have access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality, while supporting small businesses through this process.
Natural health products
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01907441-01907 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 7, 2023December 12, 2023October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerEquality rights are at the core of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are intended to ensure that everyone of every age is treated with the same respect, dignity, and consideration, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, mental or physical disability, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, and gender identities and expressions, from coast, to coast to coast.Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression continue to be a reality in Canada, and it must be eliminated. It is important that parents be involved in the lives of their children, and that should be balanced with the importance of protecting vulnerable young people.The Government of Canada is committed to promoting 2SLGBTQI+ equality, protecting 2SLGBTQI+ rights, and addressing discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both past and current.The Government has taken several actions to end discrimination against transgender and gender diverse people in Canada. Some highlights:
  • A new Action Plan to Combat Hate that will also address hate faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including trans people (See Budget 2023, chapter 4)
  • 2022: Government of Canada criminalized conversion therapies, see Statement
  • 2017: Canadian Human Rights Act amended to protect gender identity and gender expression
  • 2022: Launch of Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan
The first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan enables the federal government to help advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people of every age in Canada. It also seeks to address and prevent discrimination and stigma based on sexual orientation, sex characteristics, gender identity and expression for future 2SLGBTQI+ generations.The Action Plan achieves these objectives by prioritizing community action and by coordinating work to advance 2SLGBTQI+ issues across the federal government, recognizing the types of inequities facing communities. The plan is supported by an investment of $100 million, which will help create a more equitable Canada for 2SLGBTQI+communities, both present and future generations. In doing so it builds upon work the Government of Canada has done to address persisting disparities faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities and to build a safer, more inclusive country.
ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02130441-02130 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024October 13, 2023Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas:The Liberal Government is involving itself in decisions that should be made by parents and provinces;Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberal government's attempted interference when he told Justin Trudeau to "butt out" of New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs' Policy 713. The New Brunswick proposal requires that schools receive parental consent to change the names and pronouns of students under the age of 16 for official recordkeeping purposes; andIn the vast majority of cases, parents care about the wellbeing of their children and love them much more than any state-run institution. The role of government is to support families and respect parents, not to dictate how they should make decisions for their children.Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to butt out and to let parents raise their own children.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Lisa HepfnerEquality rights are at the core of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and are intended to ensure that everyone of every age is treated with the same respect, dignity, and consideration, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, mental or physical disability, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, and gender identities and expressions, from coast, to coast to coast.Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression continue to be a reality in Canada, and it must be eliminated. It is important that parents be involved in the lives of their children, and that should be balanced with the importance of protecting vulnerable young people.The Government of Canada is committed to promoting 2SLGBTQI+ equality, protecting 2SLGBTQI+ rights, and addressing discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both past and current.The Government has taken several actions to end discrimination against transgender and gender diverse people in Canada. Some highlights:• A new Action Plan to Combat Hate that will also address hate faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including trans people (Budget 2023, chapter 4)• 2022: Government of Canada criminalized conversion therapies, see Statement• 2017: Canadian Human Rights Act amended to protect gender identity and gender expression• 2022: Launch of Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action PlanThe first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan enables the federal government to help advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people of every age in Canada. It also seeks to address and prevent discrimination and stigma based on sexual orientation, sex characteristics, gender identity and expression for future 2SLGBTQI+ generations.The Action Plan achieves these objectives by prioritizing community action and by coordinating work to advance 2SLGBTQI+ issues across the federal government, recognizing the types of inequities facing communities. The plan is supported by an investment of $100 million, which will help create a more equitable Canada for 2SLGBTQI+ communities, both present and future generations. In doing so it builds upon work the Government of Canada has done to address persisting disparities faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities and to build a safer, more inclusive country.
ChildrenGender identity and gender expressionSchools
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01544441-01544 (Environment)YvanBakerEtobicoke CentreLiberalONJune 13, 2023August 16, 2023June 7, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDPetition to increase the level of carbon pricing under the Greenhouse Gas and Pollution Pricing Act of methane-fired electricity generation to a level that will send a sufficient market signal to incentivise a transition away from methane-fired electricity generation to low carbon energy sources.Whereas:
  • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's most recent AR6 Synthesis report for its sixth cycle (AR6) was unequivocal - no new fossil fuel infrastructure is to be built and all developed countries must reach net-zero electricity generation by 2035;
  • What some people call natural gas is, in reality, a fossil fuel. It is methane - a very potent greenhouse gas (GHG);
  • The Canadian Energy Regulator's Canada Energy Futures 2021 reports that approximately 8,900 megawatts of new methane-fired generating capacity is projected to be added by 2035 under current federal, provincial and territorial policies;
  • In Ontario, methane-fired generation is set to account for 25% of the province's electricity generation by the late 2040s, more than triple its current role;
  • The Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act (GGPPA) establishes the framework for the federal carbon pollution pricing backstop system, which consists of two main components: a regulatory charge on fossil fuels (Fuel Charge); and, a regulatory trading system for industry, known as the Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS);
  • Methane-fired generation of electricity is subject to the OBPS component of the GGPPA;
  • The increase in projected methane-fired electricity generation in Canada (particularly in Ontario) indicates that the current level of carbon pricing of methane-fired generation does not send a sufficient market signal to incentivize a transition away from fossil fuels to low carbon energy sources;
  • There is a real risk of methane-fired electricity generation facilities becoming stranded assets, with the associated costs being passed onto the taxpayer and ratepayer; and
  • The proposed Clean Electricity Regulations process is too slow to address this grave problem.
We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to Increase the level of carbon pricing under the GGPPA of methane-fired electricity generation to a level that will send a sufficient market signal to incentivise a transition away from methane-fired electricity generation to low carbon energy sources by:
  • making methane-fired electricity generation subject to the Fuel Charge component of the GGPPA; or
  • if methane-fired generation remains in the OBPS component of the GGPPA, making it subject to increased carbon pricing.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTCanada is committed to achieving a net-zero electricity system by 2035 as a key part of its plan to achieve a net-zero economy by 2050 to help combat climate change. In order to achieve this goal, the Government of Canada is working closely with provinces, territories, Indigenous peoples, industry, and other key interested parties to identify and support regional priorities for clean electricity through the Regional Energy and Resources Tables, the Canada Electricity Advisory Council, and the Indigenous Council for Wah-ila-toos. Budget 2023 included approximately $45 Billion in investments over the next 10 years through investment tax credits, low-cost financing through the Canada Infrastructure Bank, and other funding to support the clean energy transition. Notably, it announced a 15% tax credit for non-emitting electricity generation and transmission, in addition to other complementary measures announced in Budget 2023 and the 2022 Fall Economic Statement, such as investment tax credits for clean technologies, clean technology manufacturing, clean hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage.To achieve net zero by 2050, the electricity sector will need to phase out coal by 2030, achieve net zero electricity by 2035 and ultimately close to double generation capacity. This energy transition is being driven by federal climate policies. For example, in 2018 the Government of Canada published the Reduction of Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Coal-Fired Generation of Electricity Regulations, which regulates a phase-out of conventional coal-fired electricity generation by 2030. Additionally, the Government of Canada published the Regulations Limiting Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Generation of Electricity, which set performance standards for new natural gas units and contains provisions for the conversion of coal units to run on natural gas for a limited period of time (up to 10 years beyond the regulated end of life date of the coal unit). These regulations help support Canada’s transition to cleaner energy, create well-paying jobs in the electricity sector, and support the development of a net-zero electricity grid.To further help accelerate Canada on the path towards a net-zero electricity grid by 2035 the Government of Canada is designing the Clean Electricity Regulations (CER), which will maximize emissions reductions while maintaining reliability and affordability. Developing the CER now sends strong signals to avoid investment in new unabated natural gas generation and will help drive forward the development of emerging clean energy technologies. The CER will set a technology-neutral emissions performance standard for emitting generation of electricity that is provided to the grid and will include compliance flexibilities that recognize regional differences, including a future role for some natural gas generation. The CER has been designed to maximize emissions reductions, while maintaining affordable and reliable electricity systems.Environment and Climate Change Canada is developing the CER in close consultation with key interested parties. This process started with the release of a discussion paper in March 2022 followed by a draft regulatory frame in July 2022. The Department has also held multiple technical webinars as well as meetings with representatives from across the country to hear specific and regional concerns. The Department will be publishing the draft CER in the coming months, after which a formal engagement period will take place.Economy-wide carbon-pricing systems are designed to incentivize emissions reductions while allowing for maximum flexibility at the lowest overall cost. The flexibility afforded by these systems will result in different segments of the economy reducing emissions along different pathways, depending on the availability and cost of emissions reduction opportunities.Fossil fuel-fired electricity generated is covered by carbon pricing in all provinces across Canada either by the federal output-based pricing system or the applicable provincial pricing system that aligns with the carbon pricing benchmark. All output-based pricing systems (OBPS) must have a rising compliance price that aligns with the minimum national carbon pricing which increases by $15/year reaching $170/t CO2e in 2030.At present, most industrial emissions are subject to provincial OBPS, rather than the federal system, including in Ontario, where fossil fuel-fired electricity generation is covered by its Emissions Performance System Regulations. Provincial systems vary in size, context, and composition, and Canada’s approach allows provinces and territories to adjust their systems to meet local circumstances, as long as they meet national minimum stringency requirements.Canada strengthened the minimum national stringency criteria for carbon pricing systems (the “benchmark”) in 2021 for the 2023-2030 period to ensure all carbon pollution pricing systems are comparable and effective across the country. New requirements mean that all OBPS must maintain a marginal price signal in line with Canada’s minimum carbon price thereby ensuring that facilities regulated under output-based pricing systems are subject to the same incentives to reduce emissions as the fuel charge.The federal approach to electricity generation under the federal OBPS balances three goals:
  • Incentivize greenhouse gas emissions reductions by applying a carbon pollution price signal to all forms of emitting electricity generation;
  • Maintain the competitiveness of emission-intensive and trade exposed industry and potentially lead to carbon leakage;
  • Introduce a system that is affordable for households and businesses, especially where energy choices are currently limited.
The approach balances these goals by setting emissions standards based on fuel type. The standards for gaseous fuels like natural gas are 370 tonnes per gigawatt hours (t/GWh) for existing generation, and for new generation, standards started at 370 t/GWh in 2021, and decline linearly to 0 t/GWh in 2030 – meaning under the federal system, new facilities will be paying the full price on every tonne of carbon pollution they emit by 2030.The different OBSs are set to maintain an even playing field across the electricity sector and avoid high costs for consumers in locations where there are barriers to non-emitting generation, such as Northern Canada or in diesel-dependent industrial activities.Increasing the stringency of the federal Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS) for industryhas been part of the design of the federal OBPS from its inception in the 2018 Regulatory Framework for the OBPS. Strengthening standards over time is consistent with Canadian and global climate goals, which require increasing ambition over time. To this end, Canada has committed to review the standards for electricity generation to reflect changes associated with the forthcoming Clean Electricity Regulations.Concerning the increase in natural gas capacity predicted in Canada Energy Regulator’s Canada’s Energy Future 2021, note that this analysis did not include the Clean Electricity Regulations. The newly released Canada’s Energy Future 2023 does include the CER and finds that the electricity sector reaches net zero emissions by 2035, demonstrating the impact of the CER and other climate policies to substantially impact planning and operations of Canada’s electricity sector.   
Carbon pricingCarbon taxEnergy transitionMethane production
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 1, 2023441-01295441-01295 (Business and trade)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCApril 18, 2023June 1, 2023April 14, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The Village of Lytton was decimated by fire on June 30th, 2021. The Village remains under an Evacuation Order with homes, and buildings not yet started construction;
  • Since rebuilding has yet to begin, doors cannot open, and businesses have had no revenue for nearly two years; and
  • Already incurring large deficits due to the pandemic, businesses destroyed by the fire will not be in a position to repay the CEBA loan when due December 31, 2023.
THEREFORE:We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to recognize the extraordinary circumstances of businesses in the Lytton area and forgive their amounts owing on Canada Emergency Bank Account loans. Due to the magnitude of disaster and consequential bureaucratic delays, businesses have been unable to rebuild for nearly two years. Forgiveness of the CEBA loan for Lytton businesses would help to empower economic development and restore this destroyed community.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA), and the impact the fire in Lytton has had on Lytton businesses.The government launched the CEBA program to provide timely support to small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and help support the jobs these businesses provide. The program provided nearly 900,000 small businesses with interest-free, partially forgivable loans of up to $60,000 to cover non-deferrable operating expenses. From the onset of the COVID pandemic, Export Development Canada (EDC), federal government partners and more than 230 Canadian financial institutions worked together to provide support to both exporting and non-exporting companies. This vital support helped small businesses make it through an unprecedented period of time. To provide additional support to businesses, the government extended the deadline to repay the loan, interest-free, until December 31, 2023, after which there is a repayment period of up to two years at an interest rate of 5%. The loans are fully due by December 31, 2025.EDC is the administrator of the CEBA program on behalf of the Government of Canada and is working with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to put in place systems to collect loans that remain outstanding after the repayment date. For those that cannot repay by the deadline, the CRA will work with each business to determine its ability to repay, emphasizing fairness, empathy, and putting people first.The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of helping the people of Lytton rebuild. Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) are offering two new programs to support the rebuilding of Lytton:
  • $6 million for the new Lytton Homeowner Resilient Rebuild program to support eligible homeowners who will rebuild to net-zero and fire-resistant standards; and
  • $7.2 million to create the Lytton Business Restart program to help small- and medium-sized businesses re-establish in the community. This funding will include support for Indigenous businesses and those operated by women, youth and other underrepresented groups.
The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting Canadians and Canadian businesses and is focusing on growing our economy and building a stronger, more resilient Canada for everyone.
Canada Emergency Business AccountLoansLyttonSmall and medium-sized enterprises
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 15, 2023441-01407441-01407 (Health)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 2, 2023June 15, 2023April 14, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Genetically modified (GMO, GM or genetically engineered) foods are not labeled in Canada;
  • Polls consistently show that over 80% of Canadians want mandatory labelling of GM foods; and
  • The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer has declared GM Crop herbicides - glyphosate - a "probable human carcinogen". Its use has increased sharply with the development of genetically modified glyphosateresistant crop varieties.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to establish mandatory labelling of all genetically modified foods.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenThe Government of Canada considers issues of food safety to be of the utmost importance.Under the Food and Drugs Act, Health Canada is responsible for provisions related to public health, food safety and nutrition, through the establishment of science-based policies and standards to ensure that all foods, including those that are genetically modified (GM) or genetically engineered, are safe and nutritious. As part of this mandate, Health Canada conducts a rigorous, science-based assessment of all novel food products, including those produced using genetic modification, using internationally agreed-upon standards and guidelines, before they can enter the Canadian marketplace.Assessments of novel foods are conducted under the Food and Drug Regulations (Division 28 – Novel Foods), which prohibit the manufacturers of these products from selling them in Canada until Health Canada has completed a full assessment to confirm the safety of these products.The novel food safety assessment conducted by Health Canada involves a scientific review of how the food was developed, a comparison of its compositional and nutritional profile with conventional counterparts, and the potential for the food to be toxic or to contain a toxin or allergen. Scientists with expertise in molecular biology, microbiology, toxicology, chemistry, and nutrition conduct a thorough analysis of the data and of the protocols used to ensure the validity of the results. Only when there are no safety concerns is the novel food permitted on the Canadian marketplace. Health Canada has been assessing GM foods for more than 30 years. To date, 174 GM food products have been approved as they were found to be as safe and nutritious as conventional foods.Even after a product has been assessed and found to be safe, Health Canada takes any new information related to such products very seriously. Scientists in the Department routinely review new information, including both independent and peer-reviewed published studies when these become available. Furthermore, the conclusions of Health Canada are consistent with similar findings and methodologies used by regulatory scientists internationally, including those adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, as well as through independent scientific reviews. Should any risks or concerns be identified from the consumption of any genetically modified food authorized in Canada, Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) would take immediate and appropriate action to protect the health and safety of Canadians.Mandatory labelling for food products, including genetically modified foods, is required by Health Canada where clear, scientifically established health risks or significant nutritional changes have been identified that can be mitigated through labelling. For example, the presence of a priority allergen in a food must be declared to alert consumers. The Government of Canada’s approach to the labelling of genetically modified food is supported by positions expressed previously by: the Royal Society of Canada Expert Panel on the Future of Food Biotechnology; the Canadian Biotechnology Advisory Committee; and, most recently, the House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food. This approach is also consistent with guidance adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, the international food standards setting body.While Canada does not normally require food products derived from GM plants and animals to be labelled because these products have been rigorously assessed for their safety and are otherwise identical to food derived from conventional agriculture, the Government of Canada recognizes that voluntary labelling is an important means of communication between industry and consumers for non-health and safety related information. To this end, Health Canada and the CFIA worked with the Canadian Council of Grocery Distributors and the Canadian General Standards Board to develop the “Voluntary labelling and advertising of foods that are and are not products of genetic engineering”, which was adopted in 2004 and reaffirmed in 2021. Companies can voluntarily label genetically modified or non-genetically modified foods using the National Standard, designed to ensure label information is clear and not misleading. The CFIA takes enforcement action if labels are found to be false or misleading.In Canada, pesticides are regulated federally under the Pest Control Products Act, which is administered by Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA). Our number one priority is to protect the health and safety of Canadians and their environment.Before a pesticide is allowed to be used or sold in Canada, it must undergo a rigorous scientific assessment process that provides reasonable certainty that no harm to human health and the environment will occur when pesticides are used according to label directions. Depending on the type of pesticide being evaluated, results from up to 200 scientific studies (or in some cases more) may be required to determine whether the pesticide would have any negative effect on people (including chronic effects, such as cancer), animals, or plants, including organisms in the soil and water. This assessment takes into consideration sensitive populations, such as pregnant and nursing individuals, infants, children, and seniors.Health Canada must also periodically re-evaluate pesticides that are on the market to assess whether they continue to meet the Department’s health and environmental standards and, hence, whether they should continue to be permitted for use in Canada. An extensive scientific re-evaluation of glyphosate, completed in 2017, showed that under the established conditions of use, glyphosate does not pose unacceptable risks to human health or the environment. This re-evaluation considered data not only from manufacturers, but also from a large body of published independent scientific studies, and information from other internationally recognized regulatory agencies. Over 1,300 studies were reviewed, totalling more than 89,000 pages.With respect to health concerns regarding glyphosate, Health Canada also took the findings of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) into consideration but found that the levels at which Canadians are exposed to glyphosate do not cause any harmful effects, including cancer. It is important to note that the level of exposure to the pesticide is not factored into the hazard-based approach used by some organizations (such as IARC), and thus do not constitute a risk assessment. However, it is noteworthy that, while IARC (a branch of the World Health Organization, or WHO) categorized glyphosate as a probable carcinogen from a hazard perspective in 2015, the WHO concluded in a Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues with the Food and Agriculture Organization in May 2016 that glyphosate is unlikely to pose a cancer risk to humans from exposure through diet. As indicated above, Health Canada takes a comprehensive approach to determining risk by assessing the actual levels at which humans and organisms in the environment are exposed.It should also be noted that Health Canada cannot speak to the decision-making process in other countries with regards to glyphosate, as each country takes into account its own legislative requirements, policies, and scientific analysis before making a decision. However, a number of international regulatory authorities, such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) have evaluated the carcinogenicity of glyphosate and have found that glyphosate is unlikely to pose a cancer risk to humans, when used according to label directions. Health Canada’s findings are therefore consistent with those jurisdictions.Nevertheless, please be assured that Health Canada continues to monitor new information related to all pesticides (including glyphosate) and will take appropriate action if there are reasonable grounds to believe that the use of the products is resulting in risks to human health or the environment.
Food labellingGenetically modified organisms
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 29, 2023441-01762441-01762 (Justice)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKOctober 16, 2023November 29, 2023April 21, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • It is well established that the risk of violence against women increases when they are pregnant;
  • Currently, the injury or death of preborn children as victims of crime are not considered aggravating circumstances for sentencing purposes in the Criminal Code of Canada;
  • Canada has no abortion law. This legal void is so extreme that we don't even recognize preborn children as victims of violent crimes; and
  • Justice requires that an attacker who abuses a pregnant woman and her preborn child be sentenced accordingly. The sentence should match the crime.
We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to legislate the abuse of a pregnant woman and/or the infliction of harm on a preborn child as aggravating circumstances for sentencing purposes in the Criminal Code.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyOur Government will always defend a woman's right to choose. Women, and women alone, should decide what happens to their bodies. Private Member’s Bill C-311, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (violence against pregnant women), which proposed aggravating factors that would apply to sentencing cases involving pregnant victims, was being used as a stepping stone toward opening the abortion debate in Canada. The Bill was defeated at second reading in the House of Commons on June 14, 2023. The sponsor of this legislation has specifically noted she was trying to fill a so-called void on abortion law in Canada. Canadian women fought for decades to ensure they have access to abortion services here in Canada and our Government will prevent the right to choose from being undermined in any way. Any attempts to introduce abortion into the Criminal Code will be vigorously opposed by our Government.Gender-based violence, including intimate partner violence, has no place in Canada and our Government has made it a priority to end it in all its forms. Committing an offence against a pregnant victim is already an aggravating factor for sentencing purposes at common law.The Criminal Code’s sentencing provisions require offenders to receive sentences that are proportionate to the gravity of the offence and to their degree of responsibility, taking into account aggravating factors, including evidence that the offender abused their intimate partner or a member of the victim’s or the offender’s family (paragraph 718.2(a)(ii)), and evidence that the offence had a significant impact on the victim, considering their age and other personal circumstances, including their health and financial situation, which includes consideration of a victim’s pregnancy (subparagraph 718.2(a)(iii.1)).Bill C-311 would have actually made pregnant women less safe by narrowing the circumstances in which existing aggravating factors that protect pregnant victims apply. Specifically, the Bill’s first proposed aggravating factor would have only applied where there is evidence that the offender knew of the victim’s pregnancy. This could have unintentionally resulted in sentencing courts refusing to treat a victim’s pregnancy as an aggravating factor in cases where there is no such evidence.The legislation was inconsistent with its stated purpose and we had concerns that it was yet another backdoor attempt to re-open the abortion debate in Canada, which should remain firmly closed.
Fetus and embryoSentencingVictims of crimeViolence against women
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01246441-01246 (Justice)TracyGrayKelowna—Lake CountryConservativeBCMarch 30, 2023May 15, 2023March 20, 2023Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Bill C-21 is based on ideology, not evidence or data;
  • Criminals who have illegally obtained firearms will continue to do so regardless of new legislation;
  • The government's Order in Council from May 1 2020, banning over 1000 firearms was done without debate in the House of Commons, committee study or public consultations; and
  • Bill C-21 would divert resources away from addressing the criminal use of illegal firearms; potentially putting more, not fewer Canadians at risk of gun violence.
THEREFORE, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Stop targeting law abiding hunters, sports shooters and farmers with gun legislation;2. Revise Bill C-21 so that it will effectively address the illegal use of firearms by criminals, while respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens; and3. Focus law enforcement resources on gangs, drug traffickers, illegal gun traffickers, and those who purchase firearms illegally as they are the groups responsible for violence in our communities.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): PAM DAMOFF, M.P.Canadians deserve to be safe in their communities. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action on gun violence with a comprehensive plan that gets firearms off our streets and puts more resources into our neighbourhoods, while respecting hunters and law-abiding gun owners. A central part of this work is addressing the assault-style firearms that have been used in the worst tragedies in our country’s history. This is why the Government has introduced Bill C-21, which represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. The objective and spirit of Bill C-21 is to enhance public safety through targeted firearms control and since its introduction, the Government of Canada has made clear commitments to take further action to protect Canadians and our communities from gun violence.When the Bill was tabled, the Government noted the intention to continue working to ensure a comprehensive ban of assault-style firearms. In November 2022, amendments were proposed to accomplish this. The core intent of the amendments was to prohibit assault-style firearms that are not suitable for civilian use, and not to target firearms that are commonly used for hunting. The proposed amendments generated significant debate and legitimate concerns and were withdrawn  to create an opportunity to further consult with Canadians.Following weeks of discussion with Canadians and after having talked with hunter association and organization representing law abiding gun owner, the government, on May 1st,  took another decisive step to address gun violence. A series of new enhanced measure to strengthen Bill C-21 and cement in law a permanent ban on new assault-style firearms from Canada were announced.  From Tackling the issues of ghost gun, to the re-establishment of the Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee those measure were made in Respect the rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis by including a specific provision stating that nothing proposed in Bill C-21 derogates from the rights of Indigenous peoples recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.Our Government recognizes the traditional and cultural importance of hunting for Indigenous communities and we are committed to ensuring that laws that are proposed or enacted do not prevent Indigenous Peoples from participating in a certain activity or practice that is integral and distinctive to their culture. The core intent of the amendments is to remove assault style firearms from civilian use and not to target hunting rifles. These amendments are not in any way intended to limit Indigenous rights. The Government will continue to consult and cooperate with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to identify a path forward.The Government recognizes the legal civilian ownership of firearms for hunters, competitive and recreational sport shooters and collectors. We are committed to working with the all Canadians to identify a sensible approach that prioritizes public safety, supports effective police work and community programming and treats everyone in a fair and reasonable manner. No single program or initiative can tackle the challenge of gun violence alone. Bill C-21 is part of the Government of Canada’s comprehensive strategy to address gun violence and strengthen gun control in Canada.  This includes legislative measures in the Bill to combat firearms trafficking and smuggling such as the higher maximum penalties from 10 to 14 years, the most severe penalties short of a life sentence.  The Government has also invested over $920 million throughout the last six years in targeted initiatives to address gun and gang violence.  This includes over $312 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, to support efforts by Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to identify smuggled firearms at the border and through firearms tracing. Among other things, this funding will increase capacity to trace firearms and provide additional resources to target firearms smuggling and trafficking by equipping the RCMP and the CBSA with the necessary tools and resources, such as x-ray machines and parcel scanners, to prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada. Further, $125 million is being provided to law enforcement agencies to increase capacity in priority areas, ensure front line officers have access to an integrated suite of resources to support firearms investigations, as well as to help prevent illegal firearms from coming into the country. 
C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)Firearms
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 27, 2024441-02217441-02217 (Foreign affairs)JeremyPatzerCypress Hills—GrasslandsConservativeSKFebruary 27, 2024January 25, 2023Petition to the Government Canada Whereas: Sindhis are a minority group in Pakistan, with 60 million Sindhi language speakers in province of Sindh, as well as other regions of Pakistan and in the diaspora;Sindhi is recognized as an official language by the province of Sindh but not by the Canadian Consulate in Karachi and the High Commission in Islamabad; andThe lack of recognition of a prominent regional language may inhibit communication between the Canadian Consulate and High Commission and the Sindhi peoples.We, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to work with Canadian Consulate in Karachi and High Commission in Islamabad to recognize Sindhi as an official language and to provide its services in the Sindhi language.Embassies and consulatesPakistanSindhiSindhis44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 30, 2023441-01767441-01767 (Employment and labour)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 17, 2023November 30, 2023February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Canada has signed on to the Paris Agreement, which includes in its text the principle of a Just Transition;
  • It is the government's responsibility to ensure a fair deal for oil and gas workers who, by no fault of their own, are losing their jobs as the Canadian economy transitions to renewable energy;
  • The skills of oil and gas workers can easily be transitioned to jobs in renewable energy with the proper allocation of resources; and
  • Employment in the sector of renewable energy has already surpassed rates of employment in oil and gas, and continues to grow.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Working alongside oil and gas workers, create a plan for a Just Transition for oil and gas workers in Canada and include in it the 10 recommendations put forward by the Task Force on Just Transition for Canadian Coal Power Workers and Communities.
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous low-carbon economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reduction targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the generational economic opportunities that a net zero emissions future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonization technology in the conventional energy sector.Budget 2023 makes transformative investments to build Canada’s clean economy, fight climate change, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and Canadian workers. This includes significant measures that will deliver cleaner and more affordable energy, support investment in our communities and the creation of good-paying, high-quality jobs, and ensure Canadian workers are able to produce and provide the goods and resources that Canadians and our global partners need. These investments are underpinned by a set of clear and predictable investment tax credits, low-cost strategic financing, and targeted investments and programming, where necessary, to respond to the unique needs of sectors or projects of national economic significance. Since 2016, the federal government has committed over $120 billion to clean growth and emissions reduction measures, including over $80 billion in investment tax credits.Canada also joined other countries at COP26 in committing to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. On December 8, 2022, the Government released policy guidelines that lay the foundation for federal departments and agencies to put in place the measures that deliver on Canada’s commitment at COP26. By ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada will ensure its investments abroad are aligned with its domestic and international climate goals, which means investing in clean energy and renewables.In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated the timeline to do so this year. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also announced in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan that it will cap and cut emissions from the oil and gas sector. This commitment was reiterated and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.With a highly skilled and educated workforce, and with the abundant natural resources and energy sources critical for a net-zero future, Canada is uniquely positioned to benefit from a low-carbon economy. The Government is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero emissions future.  The interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, released in February 2023, lays out a comprehensive approach as part of Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth.This plan, drafted in consultation with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society, outlines the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, renewable energy, low-carbon building products, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and small modular reactors, Canada has a major opportunity to build a net-zero future that works for everyone. There are also significant opportunities for sustainable jobs in conventional energy industries that are working to lower their emissions in line with Canada’s climate policy, enabling producers to be low-emissions suppliers of products to a world rapidly shifting to a net-zero economy.Recognizing the importance of helping Canadians access job training for the net-zero future, the Government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including for sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers transition to and take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced funding to establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, among other things.As committed to in the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, the Government introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, in June 2023. The legislation proposes establishing a federal governance, engagement, and accountability framework to advance economic prosperity and ensure workers benefit from the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. The bill would also require the Government to:
  • establish a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide independent advice to Government on sustainable jobs measures;
  • create a Secretariat to lead the Government’s sustainable jobs approach; and
  • release a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years beginning in 2025.
These legislated mechanisms would guide and organize efforts to support workers and communities as Canada shifts to a low-carbon economy, ensuring equitable, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth across the country.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables (Regional Tables) are a key initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables are helping to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, as well as experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for implementing joint strategies to leverage energy and resource opportunities to realize each region of Canada’s comparative advantage in a net-zero emissions economy.To date, the federal government has jointly launched nine Regional Tables across the country, with British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and the four Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador) as well as the Northwest Territories and Yukon. Most recently, the Government of Canada and British Columbia, in collaboration with First Nation partners, released the foundational British Columbia Regional Energy and Resource Table Collaboration Framework, which sets the stage for a shared longer-term vision. On the other side of the country, plans for a similar framework with Newfoundland and Labrador and Ontario are not far behind. Other participating provinces and territories are collaborating to finalize proposed priorities, while discussion to establish a Regional Table or other collaboration mechanism continues in the remaining jurisdictions.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a low-carbon world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Economic diversificationLabour forceOil and gasRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 18, 2022441-00742441-00742 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABOctober 5, 2022November 18, 2022September 27, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 24, 2023441-01183441-01183 (Justice)MarcDaltonPitt Meadows—Maple RidgeConservativeBCMarch 9, 2023April 24, 2023September 23, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02146441-02146 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 12, 2024March 22, 2024September 14, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right.
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 20, 2023441-01105441-01105 (Foreign affairs)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 3, 2023March 20, 2023June 16, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • The recent invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation has raised the spectre of nuclear war to a level not seen since the Cuban missile crisis of 1962.;
  • Critical arms control treaties between the US and Russia are being abandoned and relations between and among several other nuclear powers are deeply strained;
  • All nine nuclear armed states are modernizing and expanding their nuclear arsenals and introducing new technologies, despite nuclear disarmament being a longstanding goal of NATO and a legal obligation on all parties to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) of 1970;
  • No nuclear power or their allies, including Canada, participated in the negotiation in 2017 by 122 other states of the historic Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), which entered into force in January 2021;
  • Two of Canada's NATO allies, Germany and Norway, have announced that they, nonetheless, will attend - as official observers - the First Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, to be held in Vienna, June 21st to the 23rd of this year; and
  • Australia's newly elected Labour government has pledged to become Party to the TPNW, and will almost certainly be in attendance at this meeting as well.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, profoundly concerned about the increasing risk to humanity posed by nuclear weapons and mindful of the leadership role Canada has historically played on arms control, call upon Canada to Join our allies, Germany and Norway, in attending the First Meeting of States Parties to the TPNW as an observer.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuCanada is deeply concerned about the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of any use of nuclear weapons and has long been committed to achieving a world free from nuclear weapons. In this regard, Canada has condemned Russia’s reckless nuclear rhetoric as unacceptable. Canada reiterates its call on Russia to end its war of aggression against Ukraine and comply with its international obligations. Canada is also concerned about Russia’s February 2023 announcement that it will suspend its participation in the US-Russia New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START). Canada calls on Russia to return to compliance with the Treaty and resume dialogue with the United States.Canada’s nuclear policy is rooted in the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Canada will work tirelessly to advance this work and uphold the Treaty as the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament regime.Canada is deeply disappointed that Russia blocked consensus at the August 2022 NPT Review Conference, and that it has failed to accept responsibility for the grave situation around Ukraine’s nuclear facilities. Russia’s irresponsible seizure and continued military presence at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) are the root causes of all nuclear safety and security threats at the facility. The risks at the plant remain dangerously high as long as Russian military and ROSATOM personnel remain present at the ZNPP. Russia must leave the ZNPP and stop targeting Ukrainian nuclear facilities in its illegal and unjustified war of aggression. Despite these circumstances, NPT states parties largely reaffirmed the validity and integrity of the Treaty, and the draft conference outcome document lays the groundwork for further cooperation and progress amidst a challenging global environment.While not a party to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), Canada has common ground with Treaty states and shares the ultimate goal of a world free from nuclear weapons. For this reason, Canada remains steadfast in advancing implementation of the NPT across its three mutually re-enforcing pillars; non-proliferation, disarmament and peaceful uses of nuclear energy. As Canada is not a State Party, it did not attend the First Meeting of States Parties to the TPNW in Vienna in June 2022.Canada is also focused on initiatives that bring together nuclear and non-nuclear armed states. These include notably: commencing long overdue negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty, advocating the entry-into-force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty, building global capacity for disarmament verification, and promoting a more inclusive approach to disarmament and non-proliferation. Canada believes that a step-by-step approach, which builds confidence and is inclusive as well as pragmatic is the most effective way to achieve global zero.Canada is an important contributor to global nuclear disarmament efforts and remains deeply committed to achieving the ultimate goal of a world free of nuclear weapons.
Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons TreatyNorth Atlantic Treaty OrganizationNuclear weapons
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01813441-01813 (Justice)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023November 4, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2023441-01630441-01630 (Justice)MichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonConservativeABSeptember 20, 2023November 3, 2023November 4, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2023441-01466441-01466 (Justice)JeremyPatzerCypress Hills—GrasslandsConservativeSKMay 17, 2023June 20, 2023October 21, 2022Petition to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to the following:Whereas:The Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Bissonnette struck down section 745.51 of the Criminal Code, which allowed parole ineligibility periods to be applied consecutively for mass murderers;As a result of Bissonnette, some of Canada's most heinous mass murderers will have their parole ineligibility period reduced, now being eligible to apply for parole after only 25 years;Bissonnette is an unjust decision, putting the interests of some of Canada's worst criminals ahead of the rights of their victims;Recurring parole hearings can retraumatize the families of victims of mass murderers; andThe Government of Canada has tools at its disposal to respond to Bissonnette, including invoking the Notwithstanding Clause.Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause and override Bissonnette.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe Government of Canada acknowledges the hurt and anger that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision in R. v. Bissonnette may have rekindled for victims, survivors and their families.Nothing in the Supreme Court’s decision changes the fact that all people convicted of murder receive a mandatory life sentence, including Alexandre Bissonnette. The court did not reduce his sentence. He received a life sentence. It’s important to remember that being eligible for parole does not mean that parole will be granted.It is exceedingly rare for multiple murderers to be paroled. Our Government supported the sentencing judge’s discretion to impose a longer period of parole ineligibility when appropriate. The Government is reviewing the decision and exploring all options to respond to the decision.The use of the notwithstanding clause is very serious, since it suspends legal protections guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We believe that the notwithstanding clause should be used as a last resort, and that governments must explain the exceptional circumstances that justify the suspension of legal protections.The Government is committed to ensuring that the criminal justice system is fair and effective at ensuring that Canada is a safe, peaceful and prosperous society.
Conditional releaseConsecutive sentencesMultiple murdersNotwithstanding clause
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00012441-00012 (Justice)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 26, 2021January 31, 2022November 23, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe the undersigned, call upon the House of Commons to enact legislation granting full legal protection to the child not yet born from the beginning of his/her biological development as a human being - the same protection granted to any other human being. We also urge the House of Commons to show leadership in fostering a life sustaining society.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeThe Government supports women’s right to choose. Women – and women alone – have the right to make decisions about their own bodies. In its 1988 Morgentaler decision, which struck down section 287 of the Criminal Code, the Supreme Court of Canada held that forcing a woman, by threat of criminal sanction, to carry a fetus to term was a profound interference with her right to life, liberty and security of the person (section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms). This Government is committed to upholding all the rights enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, including section 7.We are focused on building a fairer, more equitable, and more equal Canada. All women in Canada have the right to safe and consistent access to reproductive health services and our government will always support that. The debate over a woman’s right to choose is over. We hope that all political parties will stand up for the rights of women and girls here at home and around the world, including their reproductive rights.
AbortionCivil and human rightsFetus and embryo
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00002441-00002 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABNovember 24, 2021January 31, 2022November 19, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas at one time, Sikhs and Hindus in Afghanistan numbered in the hundreds of thousands, but today less than five thousand remain;Whereas a recent bombing in early July killed leaders from both communities in Afghanistan, and demonstrates their ongoing vulnerabilities, especially since these leaders were on their way to meet the president;Whereas the Minister of Immigration is already empowered by legislation to allow vulnerable minorities to come to Canada as privately sponsored refugees, directly from the country where they face persecution; andWhereas the Sikh and Hindu communities are ready to sponsor Afghan minority refugees.Therefore we, the undersigned, urge the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to use the powers granted to him to create a special program to help persecuted minorities in Afghanistan. And further, we urge the Minister of Foreign Affairs to raise the persecution faced by this community with her Afghan counterpart and to strongly advocate for more to be done to protect them.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Sean FraserThe Government of Canada takes the protection and promotion of human rights seriously and is deeply concerned with the discrimination and violence that has affected Sikhs, Hindus and other religious and ethnic communities in Afghanistan. We strongly condemn the attacks against these communities, and offer our condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.The Government of Canada remains firm in its commitment to welcome Afghan refugees to Canada, and will work to increase the number of eligible refugees to 40,000. Our commitment to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals to Canada will be fulfilled through several special measures and programs. As part of this, we announced a special humanitarian program to resettle vulnerable Afghans, such as persecuted religious and ethnic minorities.Resettling refugees is a proud part of Canada’s humanitarian tradition. It demonstrates to the world that Canada has a shared responsibility to help those who are displaced, persecuted and most in need of protection. As with previous large-scale resettlement efforts, we welcome the support of the many Canadians who want to lend a hand. The Private Sponsorship of Refugees program is one of the oldest and best known resettlement programs in the world. Through this program, we’re expanding our partnership with the Manmeet Singh Bhullar Foundation, a Sponsorship Agreement Holder, to resettle hundreds of persecuted Afghan Sikhs and Hindus.We are working with our partners, both internationally and within the Government of Canada, to find comprehensive solutions, as we know many persecuted minorities remain within Afghanistan. There are operational challenges due to the rapidly evolving situation in Afghanistan, which pose serious challenges to our ability to ensure the safety and security of our mission. Support for religious freedoms both at home and abroad remains a priority for the Government of Canada. Canada will continue to facilitate refugee resettlement and honour our international humanitarian commitments.All key statistics, updated regularly, may be found on IRCC’s website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/refugees/afghanistan/key-figures.html.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantRespect for human rights is fundamental to the development of more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous societies. Consequently, the promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and bilateral engagement. Canada consistently advocates for the rights of ethnic minorities around the world including in Afghanistan, through both bilateral and multilateral forums.Canada acknowledges the persecution and violence faced by Sikhs, Hindus and other religious minorities in Afghanistan over the past four decades of conflict. Canada strongly condemns all terrorist attacks in Afghanistan and offers its heartfelt sympathies to all the victims and their families. Canada closely monitors human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities in Afghanistan and has publicly denounced attacks against Afghan Sikhs and Hindus. Canada firmly believes that freedom of religion or belief, including the ability to worship in peace and security, is a universal human right. People must be able to practise their religion without fearing for their lives and safety.Canada repeatedly shared its concerns on the situation of ethnic and religious minorities and to call for the full inclusion of all Afghans into every aspect of society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Canada, alongside its international allies, continues to call for adherence to obligations under international human rights law, including the rights of women, girls, and minority groups, and that international humanitarian law is upheld in all circumstances.With the Taliban’s return to power, Canada recognizes that Afghanistan is at a pivotal moment, and is closely monitoring developments on the ground. One of Canada’s foreign policy priorities is to ensure the respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including forming an inclusive and representative government and protecting the fundamental rights of all Afghans. Canada continues to reiterate that all ethnic and religious groups must be represented at all levels of Afghan government and society in order to help address the underlying problems facing the country, the root causes of discrimination and the enduring legacy left by decades of conflict. The Government of Canada has recently announced an allocation of $50 million in humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan. This in addition to the $27.3 million already allocated for Afghanistan in 2021. Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Sikhs and Hindus, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace. Canada has no intention of recognizing the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.The promotion and protection of human rights lies at the heart of Canada’s engagement in Afghanistan and Canada’s development and security support in Afghanistan has helped promote diversity and improve the safety of ethnic minority groups over the past two decades. Canada is exploring ways to continue its support for Afghan human rights defenders and remote monitoring activities of the human rights situation by human rights bodies from outside of Afghanistan. Going forward, receiving unbiased and verified accounts of human rights atrocities will be crucial for the international community’s decision-making around its future engagement with the Taliban.Canada will continue to work closely with trusted Afghan partners on the ground and international partners to bring attention to the persecution of ethnic minorities in Afghanistan and to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of marginalized groups, including Sikhs and Hindus, as their participation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable peace.On August 13, 2021, Canada announced a special humanitarian program to focus on particularly vulnerable Afghan nationals, including religious and ethnic minorities. Canada’s special immigration program has already brought thousands of Afghans to Canada, and teams across the world continue working to bring many more Afghans to safety. Canada also welcomes the initiatives of Canada-based non-governmental organizations working to support Afghan Sikhs and Hindus. This includes the Manmeet Singh Bhullar Foundation’s efforts for the safe exit of Sikhs and Hindus and their resettlement in Canada.
AfghanistanHinduism and HindusReligious minoritiesSikhism and Sikhs
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 31, 2022441-00192441-00192 (Health)TracyGrayKelowna—Lake CountryConservativeBCFebruary 15, 2022March 31, 2022December 2, 2021Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction (PSSD) is a condition associated with SSRI and SNRI antidepressant use that may persist indefinitely;
  • PSSD is a debilitating condition that causes a loss of sexual feeling and function and is known to severely affect relationships, quality of life, and mental health, and has resulted in suicides;
  • There is a lack of widespread awareness that SSRI/SNRI medications are associated with PSSD;
  • PSSD is thought to be widely underreported due to stigma, as noted by The Canada Vigilance Program;
  • Health Canada recommends that doctors inform patients of the possibility of PSSD symptoms, however this is not consistently done;
  • Although warnings of sexual dysfunction are indicated on labels, genital anesthesia (numbness) is reported in medical literature and this is not adequately represented in the sexual dysfunction warning; and
  • Gaining a clear picture of the prevalence of PSSD requires that all doctors are aware of PSSD, are informing patients about the risks of PSSD, and are consistent in reporting PSSD-related symptoms to Health Canada.
THEREFORE, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Ensure that Health Canada work with manufacturers to include persistent genital anesthesia in product information updates;
  • Support Canadians experiencing Adverse Side Effects to report symptoms to Canada Vigilance Program;
  • Employ all possible regulatory actions and mechanisms to improve detection of existing and future harm via surveillance and monitoring activities to address the issue of under-reporting as identified by the Canada Vigilance Program; and
  • Instigate post-market research on the prevalence of PSSD, as well as to further assess for causation.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenSexuality is a vital part of identity, social participation, and physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and impairment in normal sexual function can significantly impact quality of life. Health Canada engages in ongoing efforts to address shame and stigma around sexuality and to raise public awareness of sexual health concerns.In 2020, Health Canada assessed the potential risk of persistent or worsening sexual dysfunction, as well as the appearance of new symptoms of sexual dysfunction, after stopping treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). The Summary Safety Review of this assessment was published in January 2021.Following Health Canada’s review of published and unpublished population-based studies, as well as case reports of individual patients, it was decided not to include further detail in the product monograph (PM) about any particular symptom. Instead, it was recommended that PMs of SSRIs and SNRIs marketed in Canada be updated with the caution that patients be informed that there have been reports of long-lasting sexual dysfunction where the symptoms have continued despite discontinuation of SSRIs or SNRIs. This labelling revision arising from Health Canada’s assessment is similar to the labelling changes implemented by the European Medicines Agency following their review.Health Canada continues to work with the Manufacturers of SSRI and SNRIs to implement updates to the Product Monographs regarding sexual dysfunction. Additionally, a PM update notification was published in Health Canada’s Health Product Infowatch in December 2021 to inform healthcare professionals and Canadians that PMs of SSRIs and SNRIs have been, or will be, updated with new safety information recommending that patients be informed that there have been reports of long-lasting sexual dysfunction where the symptoms have continued despite discontinuation of SSRIs and SNRIs.In the Summary Safety Review on SSRIs and SNRIs published in January 2021, Health Canada included the adverse event reporting information that reads: “Health Canada encourages consumers and healthcare professionals to report any side effects related to the use of SSRIs and SNRIs and other health products to the Canada Vigilance Program.”In addition, Health Canada promotes adverse reaction reporting to Canadians, through the Government of Canada’s website, the monthly newsletter Health Product InfoWatch, the Canada Vigilance Program engagement events and other communications opportunities, to provide information about reporting and tools for health professionals and consumers to help them report. The department also makes adverse event reporting accessible through various means; reporting can be done online, by phone, or by submitting the Side Effect Reporting Form by fax or mail. Health Canada continues to monitor the safety of drug products available on the Canadian market. New evidence regarding adverse events published in the literature, reported by drug manufacturers, identified by international regulators, or captured through reports in the Canada Vigilance database is considered regularly by Health Canada through ongoing signal detection activities.During the 2020 assessment, Health Canada considered the option of future research to better characterize the risk and minimize associated uncertainty. Health Canada has consulted with academic experts from the Drug Safety and Effectiveness Network (DSEN) on options for future research to better characterize the risk of persistent or worsening sexual dysfunction, as well as the appearance of new symptoms of sexual dysfunction with the use of SSRIs. Following discussions, it was determined that it would be challenging to design an observational study that could produce valid, consistent and robust results for a number of reasons, including the following challenges:
  • Sexual dysfunction is itself a symptom of depression, making it harder to determine whether it is caused by the condition or by the treatment.
  • It is also difficult to measure sexual dysfunction due to the various ways in which people may describe the symptoms, depending on the questions being asked.
  • Finally, it is challenging to measure symptoms associated with drug discontinuation, since it is difficult to determine the time between stopping a drug and noticing an effect in the real-world data, and because there can be multiple unique causes of stopping drug treatment that would need to be accounted for.
All these factors contributed to the conclusion that it would be difficult to design an observational study that would provide reliable answers to this clinical question.The Government of Canada recognizes that all Canadians should have access to a full suite of sexual and reproductive health resources and services. Budget 2021 provided $45 million over three years, as of April 2021, to improve access to sexual and reproductive health care support, information, and services. This funding will be provided primarily to community-based organizations addressing barriers to excellent sexual and reproductive health, including additional training and supports for physicians, culturally safe and inclusive sexual health education materials, and initiatives aimed at reducing shame and stigma around sexuality and sexual health. Through this funding, the Government strives to make sexual and reproductive health information and services more accessible for populations experiencing the highest risks and greatest barriers in relation to sexual and reproductive health, including women, youth, LGBTQ2IA people, Indigenous populations, and racialized Canadians.There are currently no existing resources that collect comprehensive data on a wide range of sexual and reproductive health indicators in Canada, limiting the Federal Government’s ability to provide targeted supports. To address this challenge, $7.6 million has been provided over five years, starting in April 2021, for Statistics Canada to develop and implement a national survey on sexual and reproductive health. Better information will help ensure governments understand the challenges and improve the support they provide.These important financial commitments will enable the Government of Canada to better understand the sexual and reproductive health issues facing Canadians, and to provide support to those who are experiencing barriers to sexual health and well-being.
Adverse drug reactionsSexual dysfunction
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2023441-01228441-01228 (Business and trade)StephanieKusieCalgary MidnaporeConservativeABMarch 29, 2023May 12, 2023December 15, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights as well as labour and environmental standards. The Minister of Labour, with support from the Ministers of Public Safety, Public Services and Procurement, as well as International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, remains committed to introducing legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains, while also ensuring that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses.In March 2022, the Government of Canada published the Labour exploitation in global supply chains: What We Heard Report, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and to share feedback. Submissions were received from a range of organizations and individuals, and the Government continues to consider the results of consultations.Members of Parliament unanimously voted to have Bill S-211, An Act to enact the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act, studied by Committee.Bill S-211 has sparked important dialogue and helped advance the issue of forced labour in supply chains. However, some stakeholders expressed concern that the bill does not go far enough to address the issue of forced labour in supply chains, and others noted some operational considerations, including time needed to prepare for implementation. Irrespective of the outcome of the parliamentary process regarding Bill S-211, the Government of Canada committed, as part of the 2023 federal budget, to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from Canadian supply chains and to strengthen the import ban on goods produced using forced labour by 2024. This is an important but complex issue, and we will continue to work together with stakeholders and international partners to make sure we get it right.Supply chain legislation is just one tool, among many, needed to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation. The Government of Canada also has in place a variety of other initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business conduct abroad. For example, Canada is part of a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights and works to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Trade sanctions or financial penalties can also be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government of Canada introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. It is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. Within the National Strategy, the Government of Canada committed to promoting ethical corporate practices by encouraging industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their subcontractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that they can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labour in the Customs Tariff. PSPC also recently awarded a contract to map international due diligence obligations for businesses to report on actions taken to address the risks of forced labour, human trafficking, and human rights violations in their supply chains. This research will inform ongoing activities designed to ensure that suppliers of goods and services apply the highest ethical and sustainability standards across their supply chains.At the September 2022 G7 Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, G7 partners committed to strengthen cooperation and collective efforts towards eradicating the use of all forms of forced labour and child labour in global supply chains. This commitment includes measures that promote corporate due diligence, as well as working to further enhance predictability and certainty for businesses.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in all their activities abroad, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines, such as the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy. To this end, Global Affairs Canada released its RBC Strategy in April 2022, which sets out priorities for the Government of Canada to support Canadian businesses active abroad – no matter their size, sector, or scope – to integrate leading responsible business practices into their operations, including throughout their supply chains and to help them mitigate risks. The Strategy strengthens Canada’s balanced approach to RBC, which includes preventative measures, legislation in select areas, and access to dispute resolution.In terms of access to dispute resolution, the Government of Canada supports Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). The NCP is mandated to offer facilitated dialogue and mediation to all sectors on issues covered by the OECD Guidelines, including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery. The NCP can address complaints directed at the activities of multinational enterprises in Canada and the operations of Canadian multinational enterprises operating abroad. The CORE can review complaints of alleged human rights abuses by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil and gas, and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies will participate in good faith in these dispute resolution processes. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of or follow-up to a review process, both the NCP and the CORE can recommend the withdrawal of Trade Commissioner Service support and that Export Development Canada, and the Canadian Commercial Corporation also withdraw future support. The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. The two mechanisms can offer effective and accessible alternatives to judicial processes, although they do not preclude a party from addressing the issues in other fora. The Government believes that a whole-of-government approach, including supply chain legislation, will be essential in addressing labour exploitation in Canadian supply chains. We look forward to working closely with Parliamentarians, stakeholders and international partners to strengthen Canada’s approach and global efforts to address forced labour and other forms of exploitation.
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 20, 2022441-00442441-00442 (Food and drink)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCMay 11, 2022June 20, 2022December 8, 2021Petition to the Government of Canada: WHEREAS:
  • Farmers Markets are a key tool for covid-19 recovery as small business incubators, domestics system and food security builders, and local economy community builders and Farmers' Market Coupon Programs are a key support for new Market development and support for existing Markets and their provincial Associations;
  • Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs help create food security and resiliency by giving vulnerable people access to healthy locally grown foods and dietary education while positively impacting the physical and mental health of participants by increasing the amount and diversity of fruits and vegetables they consume;
  • The BC Farmers' Market Association with 135 member markets and 4000+ vendors and it's long-term partnership with the province of BC provides an excellent model for Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Programs; providing almost 16000 vulnerable families, seniors and pregnant women with access to weekly coupons, and seeing 1,909,000 to local farmers. Their current program has an average coupon redemption rate of over 91% and 79% of those participants claim the program made a long term change in their eating habits; and
  • A national matching program would assist in meeting those demands, encourage provinces without a provincial program to create one, and support those provinces who have a provincial program to expand to meet demand.
Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Motion M-78 and initiate a national matching program for all provincial Farmers' Markets Nutrition Coupon Programs across Canada that would match provinces who are already contributing to their Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program and encourage Provinces that do not have such a program to implement one by offering matching funding.
Response by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, PC, MPOn June 17, 2019, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) launched the first Food Policy for Canada, a whole-of-government approach supporting the vision that “All people in Canada are able to access a sufficient amount of safe, nutritious and culturally diverse food. Canada’s food system is resilient and innovative, sustains our environment, and supports our economy.”The Food Policy for Canada is an ambitious initiative, the product of consultation and collaboration with Canadians across the country. The Government of Canada heard from more than 45,000 Canadians, including agricultural producers and processors, experts in environment, health and food security, Indigenous groups, non-government organizations, and community advocates.Recognizing the importance of helping communities access healthy food, AAFC is delivering the Local Food Infrastructure Fund, a Food Policy initiative with $60 million in funding to strengthen local food systems and to facilitate access to safe and nutritious food for at-risk populations.To date, the Local Food Infrastructure Fund has committed $35.7 million to support over 800 vital food security projects across Canada, such as community gardens and kitchens, refrigerated trucks and storage units for donated food, greenhouses in remote and Northern communities, and more.The Government of Canada is also delivering the $330 million Emergency Food Security Fund by providing funding to national and regional organizations, which in turn support food banks and local food organizations across Canada. This emergency fund helps improve access to food for people experiencing food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.In British Columbia, the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program (FMNCP) is supported by the Province of British Columbia, the Provincial Health Services Authority and community donors. The Public Health Agency of Canada’s Multisectoral Partnership Program supported a similar initiative, with an investment of $1.5M from 2020 to 2024 to expand Community Food Centres Canada’s Market Greens initiative to 30 locations across Canada. The Market Greens initiative supports increased access to low-cost fresh produce markets and offers fruit and vegetable vouchers/coupons that can be used at participating local affordable markets.Thank you for sharing your proposal to improve Canadians’ access to healthy, local foods through farmers markets and FMNCPs. The Government of Canada remains committed to considering all opportunities to improve food security for Canadians and a vibrant, productive agriculture sector in Canada.
Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon ProgramFarmers marketsFood and drinkFood supply
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 6, 2022441-00254441-00254 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 23, 2022May 6, 2022June 4, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding protecting young persons online – a very important issue. The Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians. As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content, including child sexual exploitation content and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.The Government is committed to getting this right. From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The Government subsequently released a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways from the consultation. As a next step following the release of the report, on March 30, 2022, the Government announced the creation of an expert advisory group to generate advice on a revised legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The advisory group’s objective is to provide advice to support the Government in developing legislation on online safety. The group’s discussions include topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online, child sexual exploitation, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.  Engagement with the expert group is done in an open and transparent manner, so that all interested parties can follow along. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlAll Canadians should be able to express themselves online without being subject to hateful or threatening attacks. The Government will take some time to further engage with experts, stakeholders and interested parties to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00068441-00068 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2021January 31, 2022March 8, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, conversion therapy has historically referred to coercive, degrading actions that seek to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity which are wrong and should be banned;Whereas, Bill C-6 defines conversion therapy as "a practice, treatment or service designed to change a person's sexual orientation to heterosexual, to change a person's gender identity or gender expression to cisgender or to repress or reduce non-heterosexual attraction or sexual behavior or non-cisgender gender expression";Whereas, this broad definition wrongly applies the label "conversion therapy" to a broad range of practices, including counsel from parents, teachers, and counsellors encouraging children to reduce sexual behavior;Whereas, Bill C-6 expressly allows counselling, medical, and surgical efforts to change a child's gender, but prohibits support for a child seeking to de-transition to his or her birth (cis) gender;Whereas, Bill C-6 could restrict the choices of LGBTQ2 Canadians concerning sexuality and gender by prohibiting access to any professional or spiritual support freely chosen to limit sexual behaviour or de-transition.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Ban coercive, degrading practices that are designed to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity;2. Amend Bill C-6 to Fix the Definition of Conversion Therapy, thus banning Conversion Therapy without banning voluntary counselling or criminalizing conversations; and3. Allow parents to speak with their own children about sexuality and gender, and to set house rules about sex and relationships.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeConversion therapy is a scientifically discredited practice that discriminates against LGBTQ2 Canadians by telling them that they should change a fundamental part of who they are – their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. That is why our Government is proud to have passed Bill C-4, which criminalizes causing another person to undergo conversion therapy, removing a minor from Canada to subject them to conversion therapy abroad, profiting from conversion therapy and advertising or promoting it.Conversion therapy practices aim to change an individual’s sexual orientation to heterosexual, to change an individual’s gender identity to cisgender, or to change their gender expression to match the sex they were assigned at birth. They harm and further stigmatize sexual and gender-diverse persons and undermine their equality and dignity. They reflect myths and stereotypes about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and Two-Spirit (LGBTQ2) communities particularly that their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression are wrong. These harmful practices also reinforce heteronormative and cis-normative ideas, as well as gender-conformity on LGBTQ2 individuals.Consistent with its important objective of ending an inherently discriminatory practice, Bill C-4 defines conversion therapy as any practice, treatment or service that is designed to make a person conform to heteronormative or cisnormative standards. Bill C-4’s conversion therapy definition also clarifies that interventions that help a person explore or develop their identity are not conversion therapy unless they are based on the false assumption that a particular sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression is preferable to another.The consensus demonstrated by Parliamentarians in Canada on C-4 is a part of an emerging global consensus surrounding the real and life - long harms for conversion therapy victims and survivors, and our Government is proud to be a global leader in ending this abhorrent practice.
An Act to amend the Criminal Code (conversion therapy)Conversion therapyGender identity and gender expressionSexual minorities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00052441-00052 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 13, 2021January 31, 2022May 12, 2021Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas, on February 23rd the Trudeau Government endorsed a Senate amendment to Bill C-7 that would allow Canadians with mental illness as their sole medical condition to access euthanasia. This expansion would automatically come into effect two years after Bill C-7 becomes law; Whereas, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) stated, "As a recovery-oriented organization, CMHA does not believe that mental illnesses are irremediable.";Whereas, suicidality is often a symptom of mental illness. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Canadians between the age of 10 and 19;Whereas, legal and medical experts are deeply concerned that permitting Canadians suffering from depression and other mental illnesses to access euthanasia would undermine suicide prevention efforts.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Reject the Senate amendment to present those struggling with mental illness with the option of an assisted death. 2. Protect Canadians struggling with mental illness by facilitating treatment and recovery, not death.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeMedical assistance in dying (MAID) is a complex and deeply personal matter for many Canadians and their families. Last year, our Government passed, Bill C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying), which responds to the September 2019 Superior Court of Quebec ruling in Truchon,which struck down the eligibility criterion of “reasonably foreseeable natural death” from the Criminal Code MAID regime. Bill C-7 also temporarily excluded mental illness as a medical condition that can ground eligibility.The Government believes that those who are experiencing persistent and intolerable suffering from their medical condition should be allowed to decide for themselves when they wish to end their life, and that medical and nurse practitioners who are willing to help them have a peaceful and painless death should not be criminally culpable for doing so.However, our Government recognizes the difficult issues that arise when a mental illness is the sole underlying medical condition for a MAID request. This is why Bill C-7, as adopted, excludes mental illness as a medical condition that can ground eligibility until March 2023. This temporary exclusion will provide time for a panel of experts and a Parliamentary Committee to advise the Government on protocols, guidance and safeguards to apply to MAID requests by persons who have a mental illness.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenOn March 17, 2021, new legislation on medical assistance in dying (former Bill C-7, now known as, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying)) received Royal Assent and came into effect immediately for all requests for medical assistance in dying (MAID) after that date. The new law removes the eligibility requirement for a reasonably foreseeable natural death, as well as easing certain safeguards such as the removal of the 10-day reflection period, only for those whose death is reasonably foreseeable.Over the past year, in particular during the study of the Act, a growing number of mental health and medical professionals have indicated that they believe MAID can be safely extended to those whose sole underlying condition is mental illness. While experts have said that only a very small minority of these individuals would likely be approved for MAID, they have also stressed the point that patients with mental illness can, and must, be evaluated on a case-by-case basis that takes into account the diversity of their circumstances. It was their view that Canadian practitioners, particularly those with specialized training in mental health and MAID assessment, would be able to evaluate capacity and determine eligibility in these cases.The Government of Canada recognizes that there are complexities associated with extending access to MAID to individuals suffering solely from mental illness, such as whether the person’s condition can be considered “incurable” or “irremediable” and challenges in assessing capacity. That is why the new legislation on MAID includes a 24-month sunset clause on the exclusion of MAID requests where mental illness is the sole condition. Importantly, the sunset clause in the legislation is accompanied by a legislative requirement to initiate an independent review by experts to consider protocols, guidance and safeguards that would be applied to MAID requests by persons who have a mental illness.The Expert Panel on MAID and Mental Illness was launched in August 2021 to undertake this review. Members of the Expert Panel reflect a range of disciplines and perspectives, including clinical psychiatry, MAID assessment and provision, law, ethics, health professional training and regulation, mental health care services, as well as lived experience with mental illness.The Expert Panel must submit a report of its conclusions and recommendations, which will be tabled in Parliament. This will provide Parliamentarians with time to consider whether additional safeguards should be added to Canada’s legal framework for MAID, and it will provide health professional regulatory bodies and associations with the information they need to develop appropriate guidance and resources.The new legislation also requires that a comprehensive review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to medical assistance in dying and their application be undertaken by a Joint Committee of both Houses of Parliament. The Parliamentary Review must address (but not necessarily be limited to) the topics of mature minors, advance requests, mental illness, the state of palliative care in Canada, and the protection of Canadians with disabilities. The Joint Committee was formed in the spring of 2021.Addressing mental health remains an important priority for the Government of Canada. Mental illness affects many Canadian families and individuals, and has an impact on our economy and society as a whole. Since 2015, our government has made significant investments to support the mental health of Canadians, including:
  • $598 million for a distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategy for Indigenous peoples;
  • $140 million to support veterans’ dealing with PTSD, depressive, and anxiety disorders; and,
  • $45 million for national mental health care standards.
Through Budget 2017, Canada made a historic investment of $5 billion over 10 years to improve access to mental health and addiction services. Budget 2019 also provided $25 million over 5 years to develop, implement, expand, and sustain a fully operational pan-Canadian suicide prevention service. Through this initiative, people across Canada will have access to crisis support in English and French when they need it using the technology of their choice – either voice, text or online chat.More recently, in April 2020, the Government of Canada launched the Wellness Together Canada portal, the first national program of its kind, providing a 24/7 suite of free, evidence-based mental health and substance use tools and services. Through Wellness Together Canada, individuals across the country can access supports ranging from self-assessment and peer support to confidential sessions with social workers, psychologists and other mental health professionals.To date, the government of Canada has invested $130 million in Wellness Together Canada. Since its launch, almost 2 million individuals across all provinces and territories have accessed the Wellness Together Canada portal in over 5.5 million web sessions. Additionally, through Budget 2021, the Government committed $45 million over two years to develop national standards for mental health, in collaboration with provinces and territories, health organizations, and key stakeholders.Through Budget 2021, the Government of Canada also committed $500 million in support during the pandemic for Canadians experiencing mental health challenges, homelessness, or substance use. Budget 2021 also announced $100 million to support the mental health of those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including youth, seniors, 2SLGBTQQIA+, First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Black and other racialized populations. It also provided $50 million to address PTSD and trauma in front line and essential service providers and those most affected.In 2022-23, to ensure that mental health care is treated as a full and equal part of our universal health care system, Health Canada will begin work to establish a new Canada Mental Health Transfer, to expand the delivery of high-quality, accessible and free mental health services, including for prevention and treatment. In addition, the department will sustain efforts to improve access to virtual mental health supports, as well as establish a new fund to support the mental health of post-secondary students, including improving wait times for services and increasing access overall. This will include targeted supports to Black, Indigenous, and racialized students at post-secondary institutions across Canada.
C-7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying)Health care systemMedical assistance in dyingMental health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 15, 2022441-00473441-00473 (Justice)FraserTolmieMoose Jaw—Lake Centre—LaniganConservativeSKMay 13, 2022June 15, 2022June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00808441-00808 (Justice)LucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableConservativeQCOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00964441-00964 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 23, 2022441-00140441-00140 (Indigenous affairs)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 7, 2022March 23, 2022March 19, 2020PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Canadian constitutional law is accountable to the human rights obligations outlined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples;
  • Canada has also committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action;
  • The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has called on Canada to:
    • immediately suspend work on the Coastal GasLink pipeline until free, prior, and informed consent is obtained from Indigenous Peoples;
    • Immediately cease the forced eviction of Wet'suwet'en Peoples;
    • Prohibit the use of lethal weapons against Indigenous Peoples and guarantee no force will be used against them;
    • Withdraw the RCMP and associated security and policing services, from traditional lands;
  • Hereditary Chiefs have the right to grant consent, or not, for activities on their territories; and,
  • The Coastal GasLink project has the potential to release massive amounts of methane through the extraction, transport, liquefaction and regasification processes
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Commit to upholding the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action by immediately:
    • Halting all existing and planned construction of the Coastal GasLink project on Wet'suwet'en territory;
    • Ordering the RCMP to dismantle their exclusion zone and stand down;
    • Schedule nation-to-nation talks between the Wet'suwet'en Nation and federal and provincial governments; and,
    • Prioritize the real implementation of UNDRIP.
Response by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JAIME BATTISTEThe Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations (CIR) would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their interest in the Wet’suwet’en Nation and Coastal GasLink pipeline project. The Government endorsed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2016 and on June 21, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act received Royal Assent and immediately came into force.  Canada is in the process of implementing the Declaration.The former Minister of CIR and the former British Columbia Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation met with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs between February 27 and 29, 2020. These talks initially focused on two separate topics: the recognition of Wet’suwet’en Aboriginal rights and title throughout their territory, and the issues arising out of the Coastal GasLink project. These topics were discussed separately. The parties made the decision to keep the pipeline matter separate from rights and title discussions, as the pipeline remains entirely within the jurisdiction of British Columbia and therefore is most appropriately addressed bilaterally between Wet’suwet’en and the Province.Canada, British Columbia, and the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 14, 2020, which broadly recognizes Wet’suwet’en rights and title throughout the Yintah (traditional territory) and that Wet’suwet’en rights and title are held by Wet’suwet’en Houses under their traditional system of governance. Ongoing nation-to-nation talks are focused on exploring a path forward toward substantive agreements that would describe future governance, areas of jurisdiction, and the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title. The federal Government remains committed to reconciliation with all Indigenous Peoples, including the Wet’suwet’en Nation. Despite the recent escalation of protest and enforcement activities, CIR is engaged in regular and ongoing negotiations with Wet’suwet’en and British Columbia with respect to the implementation of Wet’suwet’en rights and title within the territory.
Coastal GasLink Pipeline ProjectIndigenous rightsWet'suwet'en First Nation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 15, 2023441-01892441-01892 (Public safety)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABNovember 6, 2023December 15, 2023November 12, 2020Petition to the Government of Canada We, the undersigned Citizens and Residents of Canada draw the attention of the Government of Canada to the following:
  • That highly damaging noise levels repeatedly reach the ears of firearm users despite the use of traditional hearing protection;
  • That section 7 of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms recognises an individual's right to personal health and safety;
  • That sound moderators are the only universally recognised health and safety device that has a criminal prohibition in Canada;
  • That, as affirmed in Bedford v. Canada at the Supreme Court of Canada, one cannot be prevented from taking reasonable steps to improve personal safety in a hazardous situation;
  • That the majority of G7 nations and many others have recognised the health and safety benefits involved, and allow the legal use of sound moderators by hunters and sport shooters;
  • That sound moderators reduce noise pollution and noise complaints in communities with shooting ranges, in rural and farm communities, and in areas used for recreational activities where hunting and target shooting is legal;
  • That sound moderators facilitate significantly increased humane husbandry of game animals, livestock, and pets as hunting companions;
  • That hearing damage is a significant quality of life and public health issue costing taxpayers millions annually.
THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Take a stand and empower Canadians to be responsible for their own health and safety by removing the prohibition of sound moderators from the Criminal Code of Canada;
  • Allow the legal acquisition, possession, and use of sound moderators on firearms by all licensed firearms users in Canada;
  • Call upon the provinces and territories to amend provincial and territorial prohibitions and allow the use of sound moderators while engaged in all legal hunting and sport shooting activities.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyThe Government believes in implementing effective measures with respect to firearms that prioritize public safety, while remaining mindful of the impact of such measures on firearms owners and businesses.Any device or contrivance designed or intended to muffle or stop the sound or report of a firearm has been unlawful in Canada since the early 1900s. These items are prescribed as prohibited devices in the Regulations Prescribing Certain Firearms and Other Weapons, Components and Parts of Weapons, Accessories, Cartridge Magazines, Ammunition and Projectiles as Prohibited or Restricted. Sound reduction or elimination diminishes the public’s ability to react to gun shots and makes it difficult for law enforcement to become aware of a possible criminal incident.Firearms owners can make use of other forms of hearing protection that are commonly available and that do not adversely impact public safety.
Gun controlHearing health
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00919441-00919 (Justice)CathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservativeSKDecember 5, 2022January 30, 2023June 7, 2019PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur Government was pleased to support Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (trafficking in human organs), which received royal assent and came into force on December 15, 2022.In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law. Bill S-223 strengthens that framework.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00134441-00134 (Justice)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 3, 2022March 21, 2022June 12, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 25, 2022441-00214441-00214 (Public safety)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 4, 2022April 25, 2022May 29, 2018Petition to THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada, along with all their colleagues in Parliament, to propose and accept substantial amendments to Bill C-71 (An Act to amend certain Acts and Regulations in relation to firearms) on the aforementioned or other details of this bill.
Response by the Minister of Public SafetySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Pam DamoffIn cities across Canada, firearms violence is on the rise. Addressing the devastating effects of gun and gang violence is a priority shared by all Canadians. Our government passed former Bill C-71 to keep firearms out of the hands of people who should not have them, and enable the tracing of firearms used in crimes. We moved quickly but carefully to implement C-71 in a way that was fair and transparent to firearm owners and businesses. We consulted on proposed regulations, and we made certain the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) had the tools needed to implement the regulations effectively. On July 7, 2021, our government brought into force expanded background checks for licence applications to cover the entire lifetime of an applicant’s history, and the Chief Firearms Officer must now consider whether the applicant has a history of harassment or restraining orders, or poses a danger to any other person. These changes are preventing people with a history of violence from owning a firearm. Also on July 7, 2021, our government restored limits on the transportation of restricted and prohibited firearms within our communities. Individuals must now seek a Chief Firearms Officer’s discretionary authorization to transport these firearms to all places other than a shooting range or home after purchase. We are committed to completing the implementation of former Bill C-71. Forthcoming regulations on licence verification will protect public safety by reducing the risk of non-restricted firearms being sold or given to anyone that does not possess a valid firearms licence. The Chief Coroner of Ontario specifically requested this change after improper transfers resulted in fatal consequences. The regulations will also require businesses to keep sales and inventory records on non-restricted firearms for at least 20 years. Firearms businesses will hold the records. No information on a non-restricted firearm being transferred would be provided to the Registrar of Firearms; our government has pledged to not bring back the long-gun registry. Law enforcement will need to have a valid purpose in order to access the records, often a judicial production order (e.g., to trace a crime gun, to investigate domestic trafficking or straw purchasing). Our Government will also re-introduce legislation to: prevent firearm-related deaths in cases of family violence and self-harm; increase criminal penalties to target those that smuggle and traffic firearms; make it an offence to alter a gun magazine; enable police information-sharing needed to investigate firearms offences; and prevent illegal ammunition from entering our country. On June 21, 2021, the regulations were tabled in both Houses of Parliament for review, as required by section 118 of the Firearms Act, and, on June 26, 2021, the regulations were pre-published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, for 30 days of public comment. The House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security considered the Regulations in its meeting on December 16, 2021, and recommended no changes to them.  Our government intends to bring these regulations into force at the earliest opportunity. Bill C-71 and its regulations are critical to public safety. But, more is needed. Our government is committed to stronger gun controls and it is investing in policing, border enforcement and community gang prevention strategies. We banned over 1,500 models of assault-style rifles. We will remove them from our communities and implement a buy-back program. Our government has invested $125M through the Initiative to Take Action against Gun and Gang Violence to enhance the RCMP and the Canadian Border Services Agency’s capacity to detect and disrupt gun smuggling. These investments are working. We’ve seen increased gun seizures and arrests thanks to the hard-working members of the RCMP and the CBSA. We’re investing a further $312 million over five years, beginning this year, including $40 million for the RCMP to combat smuggling, $15 million for tracing, and over $21 million for CBSA equipment and intelligence sharing. We are providing $250 million for municipalities and Indigenous communities to fight gang violence on our streets under the Building Safer Communities Fund. And, our government is committed to investing a minimum of a $1 billion to support provinces that want to ban handguns, which are the weapon of choice for gang members. Our Government will also re-introduce legislation to: prevent firearm-related deaths in cases of family violence and self-harm; increase criminal penalties to target those that smuggle and traffic firearms; make it an offence to alter a gun magazine; enable police information-sharing needed to investigate firearms offences; and prevent illegal ammunition from entering our country. Our Government has clearly taken bold action to address firearms and gang violence. All levels of government have a role to play. I call on all communities to join the Government of Canada in doing their part to stamp out gun violence.
FirearmsPolice services
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 30, 2022441-00374441-00374 (Justice)LailaGoodridgeFort McMurray—Cold LakeConservativeABApril 7, 2022May 30, 2022June 19, 2018PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas increasing concerns about international trafficking in human organs removed from victims without consent have not yet led to a legal prohibition on Canadians travelling abroad to acquire or receive such organs; andWhereas there are currently two bills before Parliament proposing to impede the trafficking of human organs obtained without consent or as a result of a financial transaction: Bill C-350 in the House of Commons and Bill S-240 in the Senate;Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the Parliament of Canada to move quickly on the proposed legislation so as to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to prohibit Canadians from travelling abroad to acquire human organs removed without consent or as a result of a financial transaction and to render inadmissible to Canada any and all permanent residents or foreign nationals who have participated in this abhorrent trade in human organs.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Gary AnandasangareeOur government was proud to support former Private Member’s Bill C-350, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking and transplanting human organs and other body parts), and former Senate Public Bill S-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), in the 42nd Parliament. We look forward to working with all parties on similar legislative proposals, including Senate Public Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (trafficking in human organs), which was introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021.Combatting human organ trafficking is a complex issue that involves both legislative and policy responses. In Canada, organ transplantation and donation is governed by a comprehensive legislative framework at both the federal and provincial/territorial level, encompassing health and criminal law.
Human organs and other body parts traffickingMedical tourismMedical transplantationOrgans
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 15, 2023441-01292441-01292 (Social affairs and equality)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABMarch 31, 2023May 15, 2023June 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01660441-01660 (Civil and human rights)TedFalkProvencherConservativeMBSeptember 26, 2023November 9, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01513441-01513 (Civil and human rights)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABJune 5, 2023September 18, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00587441-00587 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJune 15, 2022September 20, 2022May 4, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C clearly communicates that the future of humanity is at risk without “rapid and far-reaching” changes to mitigate a 1.5°C temperature rise in the next 11 years and to achieve zero emissions by 2050;
  • Canada is on course to significantly overshoot our 2030 Paris Agreement target (Auditor General's Report 2018) with oil and gas and transportation emissions continuing to rise (Government of Canada);
  • The World Health Organization has clearly stated that “climate change is the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century”; and
  • The health impacts from climate change, including lung disease, heat-related illness, spread of infectious diseases, displacement, famine, drought, and mental health impacts, are being felt in Canada and abroad and are expected to accelerate across our planet at an unprecedented rate threatening "human lives and viability of the national health systems they depend on” (Lancet Countdown 2018, Lancet Countdown Briefing for Canadian Policymakers, 2018).
We, the undersigned, Physician Mothers of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • Act upon the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment “Call to Action on Climate Change and Health” report (February 5, 2019), which has clearly outlined specific measures towards zero emissions;
  • Prioritize the elimination of emissions and preservation of a healthy environment as part of every portfolio and in every decision made by our federal and provincial parties;
  • Implement a nationwide carbon pricing strategy;
  • Commit to the rapid elimination of fossil fuels and coal from our economy;
  • Commit to rapid incorporation of green energy and net-zero infrastructure across the country; and
  • Eliminate single use plastics.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe science is clear that accelerated efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions rapidly by 2030, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, are necessary in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The economics are clear too – to build a strong, resilient, economy for generations to come, we must harness the power of a cleaner future.The Government of Canada recognizes this reality, and since 2015 has taken significant, ambitious steps to reduce emissions, protect the environment, spur clean technologies and innovation, and help Canadians and communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.In 2016, the Government of Canada developed the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, in collaboration with provinces and territories, and with input from Indigenous peoples. Building on this national effort, the Government of Canada released its Strengthened Climate Plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, in December 2020, to deepen emissions reductions across the economy, create new, well-paying jobs, make life more affordable for households, and build a better future.In 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 40-45 per cent below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (the Act) provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on these commitments. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Actalso holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Act,Canada published the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target, including a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Measures introduced by the Government of Canada since 2015 include:
  • Bringing into force the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act ensuring that every Canadian jurisdiction has a price on carbon. The price on carbon pollution started at $20 per tonne of emissions in 2019 – and has been rising at a predictable rate of $10 per year to reach $50 in 2022. Starting in 2023, the price will start rising by $15 per year until it reaches $170 per tonne in 2030;
  • Committing to accelerate our G20 commitment to eliminate inefficient fossil fuel subsidies from 2023 to 2025, and develop a plan to phase out public financing of the fossil fuel sector including by federal Crown corporations;
  • Accelerating the phase-out of coal-fired electricity generation, and positioning the oil and gas sector to cut pollution by working with stakeholders to implement a cap on oil and gas sector emissions;
  • Building Canada’s renewable electricity future by continuing to advance the Clean Electricity Standard to enable Canada to achieve at net-zero electricity grid by 2035, and making significant investments to support renewable electricity and grid modernization projects;
  • Helping to reduce energy costs for homes and buildings, and boosting climate resiliency;
  • Driving progress on clean cars and trucks through investments in zero-emission vehicles charging and refueling infrastructure, and the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program;
  • Establishing of the Canadian Center for Climate Services which provides climate information and support to help Canadians consider climate change in their decisions, including health-related adaptation decisions via the collaborative climate information portal, ClimateData.ca; and,
  • Developing a climate lens to integrate climate considerations throughout Government of Canada decision-making.
Furthermore, the Government of Canada is taking a multi-faceted approach towards zero plastic waste and the transition to a circular economy focused on eliminating plastic pollution at its source and on keeping plastics in the economy and out of the environment.The Government has developed a management framework for single-use plastics that provides a transparent and evidence-based approach to monitoring risks to the environment posed by single-use plastics. The framework includes four criteria to determine if a single-use plastic should be banned: if the item is prevalent in the environment, poses a threat of harm (e.g., to wildlife and their habitat), is difficult to recycle, and has readily available alternatives. Using these criteria, the Government identified six categories of single-use plastics, and on June 22, 2022, published the Single-use Plastics Prohibition Regulations. These Regulations prohibit the manufacture, import and sale of checkout bags, cutlery, foodservice ware made from or containing problematic plastics, ring carriers, stir sticks, and straws. Single-use plastic flexible straws will remain available, under certain conditions, to allow continued access to those who require them for health and accessibility reasons. The Government is also developing regulations to require that all plastic packaging in Canada contain at least 50 per cent recycled content by 2030. The same regulations will also include labelling rules that prohibit the use of the chasing-arrows symbol unless 80 per cent of Canada’s recycling facilities accept, and have reliable end markets for, these products. Working with provinces and territories, the Government will also implement and enforce an ambitious recycling target of 90 per cent for plastic beverage containers. The Government has also committed to supporting provincial and territorial producer responsibility efforts by establishing a plastics registry that would report annually on plastics in the Canadian economy.Actions such as these, as well as ongoing efforts with provinces and territories to ensure that producers are responsible for the cost of managing their plastic waste, will help address the issue of plastic pollution from single use plastics.The Government of Canada also recognizes that a more ambitious, strategic and collaborative approach is required to adapt to the impacts of climate change including higher temperatures, variable precipitation patterns, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, severe floods, wildfires, drought, and other extreme weather events. Working with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, Indigenous peoples and other key partners and stakeholders, the federal government is developing Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy. This Strategy will advance a shared vision for climate resilience and provide a blueprint for whole-of-society action to help communities and residents of Canada better adapt to and prepare for the impacts of climate change.These and other historic commitments aim to increase Canada’s climate and environmental ambition, and to help people living in Canada be more resilient to climate impacts. These commitments will benefit all Canadians, in particular those groups that are disproportionately affected by the negative effects of climate change including children, low-income communities, seniors, and Indigenous peoples.  
Canadian Association of Physicians for the EnvironmentCarbon pricingFossil fuelsGreenhouse gasesPlasticsRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 14, 2022441-00704441-00704 (Foreign affairs)SalmaZahidScarborough CentreLiberalONSeptember 26, 2022November 14, 2022May 2, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWHEREAS: The war on the Tigray region of Ethiopia has resulted in a man-made famine; The World Food Program estimates that 83% of people in Tigray need emergency food assistance;Since mid-December 2021, no food aid needed was delivered;The people of Tigray are under a siege imposed by the Ethiopian government; The blockade of food, medical, power, telecommunication, and the internet has contributed to the humanitarian crisis; UNOCHA reports, 3.9 million people in Tigray need immediate health services and intervention; Medical professionals at Ayder hospital confirm that essential medical supplies have been depleted, and WHO was denied access to deliver medical aid to Tigray;Eritrean and Ethiopian forces destroyed Tigray's food sources and continue the ethnic cleansing of Tigrayans in Western and Eastern Tigray; andThe regional government of Tigray sent a letter to the UNSG on December 19, 2021, calling for an unconditional ceasefire.THEREFORE, we, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:
  • Demand unhindered access to the whole of Tigray and provide life-saving food, medical, and humanitarian assistance;
  • Demand the immediate restoration of communication services in Tigray;
  • Demand internationally monitored and verifiable withdrawal of Eritrean forces from Tigray and the restoration of pre-war territorial boundaries;
  • Impose an arms embargo on Eritrea, Ethiopia, and all drone and weapon supplying actors; and
  • Officially recognize the genocide committed on Tigray by Eritrean Defense Forces, Ethiopian National Defense Forces, Amhara Special Forces, and Amhara regional militias.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is deeply concerned by the ongoing conflict in northern Ethiopia and continues to press for a cessation of hostilities, a negotiated political resolution to the conflict, and inclusive national dialogue to address the conflict’s root causes. Canada continues to register its alarm over violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law in northern Ethiopia and calls on all parties to stop the ongoing violations, to support accountability processes, and to ensure justice for victims and survivors.The Government of Canada continues to call upon all parties to the conflict to fulfill their obligation to allow and to facilitate safe rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to those in need throughout the conflict-affected areas. Canada has consistently called for an immediate end to the violations of international humanitarian law and human rights violations and abuses and continues to press parties to uphold their commitments under international human rights and humanitarian law. Canada provides funding for humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia, based on need. To date in 2022, Canada has provided $63.5 million in humanitarian assistance to address the needs of people affected by the crisis across Ethiopia, including in Tigray. This funding to UN agencies, the Red Cross, and NGOs is helping to provide food, treatment for acute malnutrition and other critical healthcare, access to safe water and sanitation, emergency shelter and essential household items, and protection services to populations affected by drought, conflict, and insecurity.The promotion and protection of human rights are an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy. Along with partners in the international community, Canada is shocked and dismayed by the grave violations of human rights law and of international humanitarian law taking place in Ethiopia. The Government of Canada is committed to standing up for human rights and striving for a world where the rights and freedoms of all people are protected and respected. On September 22, 2022, officials of the Government of Canada spoke at the UNHRC and denounced the resumption of hostilities in northern Ethiopia, urged all parties to cease violence immediately, respect human rights and implement accountability measures, and called for the immediate withdrawal of Eritrean Defence Forces.Canada was a major funder, with a contribution of $600,000, to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) joint investigation into the allegations of human rights violations and abuses, and serious violations of international humanitarian law committed by parties to the conflict. Canada continues to urge meaningful action towards the implementation of the OHCHR-EHRC report’s recommendations and to press the Government of Ethiopia to deliver on its commitments in this respect, including credible and transparent investigations to hold perpetrators accountable. Canada also encourages Ethiopia to collaborate with credible and independent international investigations, such as the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia (ICHREE).Canada found the conclusions of ICHREE’s September 19, 2022 report deeply troubling. The report found reasonable grounds to believe that violations of international humanitarian law- including extrajudicial killings, rape, sexual violence, and starvation of the civilian population as a method of warfare – have been committed in Ethiopia since November 2020. Canada expressed its deep concern through a tweet issued by the Global Affairs Canada corporate account on September 22, 2022.Canada is alarmed by the escalation of hostilities which began in August 2022, including the impact on civilians across northern Ethiopia. Canadian officials have conveyed this to the Government of Ethiopia, including in representations to the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Chief Justice, and parliamentarians. On August 26, 2022, the Government of Canada expressed its deep concern about the resumption of hostilities in northern Ethiopia through a tweet issued by the Global Affairs Canada corporate account, and called for parties to enter negotiations in good faith and provide unimpeded humanitarian access. In a statement on Ethiopia to the UNHRC on September 22, 2022, Canada deplored the resumption of hostilities. In its engagement with all parties to the conflict, Canada has reiterated its strong and ongoing commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution to the conflict, including African Union-led negotiations toward a peace agreement.The Government of Canada responded quickly to the conflict in northern Ethiopia by committing over $3.5 million in early 2021, to peace and stabilization programming, that focuses on increasing conflict resolution capacity and supporting conflict-sensitive, inclusive dialogue, with a particular focus on women.Since November 2021, the Prime Minister has spoken six times with Prime Minister Abiy to discuss the developments in northern Ethiopia, the importance of working toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and the need to contribute to a more united, peaceful, and prosperous Ethiopia. This includes an immediate cessation of hostilities, a political resolution, and an inclusive national dialogue process. The Prime Minister has underscored the importance of ensuring unhindered access to, and delivery of, humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict and has raised Canada’s concerns about human rights, including reports of discrimination against, and targeting of, ethnic Tigrayans and other minorities.The Government of Canada has consistently called for Eritrea’s immediate and full withdrawal from Ethiopia, including through public joint statements with likeminded countries. Canada’s former Ambassador to Sudan, who represents Canada to Eritrea, engaged with Eritrean officials in 2021, urging them to withdraw the Eritrean Defense Forces from northern Ethiopia. On September 20, 2022, a tweet issued from the Global Affairs Canada corporate account deplored the movement of Eritrean Defence Forces in northern Ethiopia and condemned the escalation of hostilities.Canada is deeply concerned for civilians and how they are being impacted by the renewed and escalating violence in northern Ethiopia. Sanctions are an important complement to Canada’s foreign policy tools, which include dialogue, capacity building, advocacy, multilateral engagement, and other diplomatic actions. Canada's United Nations Act enables the Canadian government to give effect to decisions passed by the United Nations Security Council. Canada imposed sanctions on Eritrea from April 2010 to July 2020, following a UN Security Council decision to terminate sanctions measures. The United Nations does not currently impose any sanctions against Eritrea or Ethiopia, nor does Canada.Canada is judicious in its approach about when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate. Canada reviews all of its policy options continuously and tailors its responses to the specifics of each unique situation. Canada will continue to work closely with like-minded governments in considering a broad range of response options related to the ongoing situation in northern Ethiopia. Canada continues to deploy diplomatic and political tools aimed at a peaceful resolution to the conflict.There is broad consensus that serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law by all parties took place in Tigray and other conflict-affected areas of Ethiopia, some of which may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, as outlined in the report of the Ethiopia Human Rights Commission and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Canada continues to press the Government of Ethiopia to investigate and prosecute those who have committed these violations and abuses, and we will continue to work through multilateral mechanisms to support accountability measures. The legal determination of whether a situation constitutes genocide must be done by a competent court, bearing in mind that the legal definition of genocide is precise and complex, as outlined in international treaties such as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.
Civil and human rightsEthiopiaForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workers
44th Parliament222Presented to the House of CommonsFebruary 26, 2024441-02201441-02201 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 26, 2024May 2, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 22, 2024441-02131441-02131 (Civil and human rights)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABFebruary 8, 2024March 22, 2024April 28, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary James MaloneyBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members’ Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 3, 2022441-00660441-00660 (Social affairs and equality)RosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterConservativeSKSeptember 20, 2022November 3, 2022March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023441-00842441-00842 (Social affairs and equality)MichaelBarrettLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau LakesConservativeONNovember 4, 2022January 18, 2023March 28, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022441-00688441-00688 (Taxation)AlexandraMendèsBrossard—Saint-LambertLiberalQCSeptember 21, 2022November 4, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The current income tax system for seniors gives couples numerous ways to lower taxes, while singles get none;
  • Senior couples can split their pension income, thereby allowing them to pay less tax and qualify for the Age Amount Tax Credit and the Old Age Security (OAS) with limited or no clawbacks;
  • Senior singles have no such benefits, pay higher taxes, often forfeit the Age Amount Tax Credit, and endure OAS clawbacks;
  • When one partner dies within a couple, their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) and Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) can be rolled into the RRSP, RRIF and TFSA of the remaining partner;
  • A single person's RRSP and RRIF is cashed upon death and declared as income, which results in higher taxes, often 50%;
  • The cost of living for a single person is two-thirds of the cost of living for a couple;
  • Single person households are growing faster than any other type of household in Canada, according to Statistics Canada; and
  • Of the six million seniors in Canada, over one-third are single seniors, many of them women, and this demographic will continue to grow.
We, the undersigned, single seniors and other citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Offer tax benefits to senior singles equal to those now in place for senior couples, which would include: (a) Offering single seniors a reduction of 30% on their income to be taxed (for example, if a single senior has a taxable income of $100,000, reduce the taxable amount by 30% to $70,000); and(b) Allowing, upon death, single seniors with un RRSP, RRIF or TFSA to transfer it to the RRSP, RRIF or TFSA of a beneficiary of their choice.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada understands that, after a lifetime of hard work, Canadians have earned a secure and dignified retirement. In this regard, single seniors may benefit from a number of targeted tax relief measures, such as the Age Credit and Pension Income Credit. Seniors, and those who support them, may also benefit from tax credits such as the Disability Tax Credit, the Medical Expense Tax Credit, and the Home Accessibility Tax Credit.Single seniors may also benefit from general tax relief that the government has recently introduced. For example, the government is increasing the amount of money Canadians can earn before paying federal income tax to $15,000 by 2023 for all but the wealthiest Canadians. When the increases are fully implemented in 2023, 4.3 million seniors will benefit, including 465,000 whose federal income tax will be reduced to zero.This measure builds on the success of key initiatives like the middle-class tax cut, which is benefitting over nine million Canadians. Single individuals who benefit from that measure are seeing an average tax reduction of $330 every year.  The tax relief currently available to seniors and pensioners allows a single senior to earn at least $24,296 (assuming at least $2,000 in income eligible for the Pension Income Credit) before paying federal income tax in 2022.Beyond the tax system, single seniors may also be eligible for targeted support. For example, the government has more than doubled the maximum Guaranteed Income Supplement top-up benefit for low-income single seniors. As well, single seniors age 75 and older are benefiting from the ten percent increase to the Old Age Security Pension that began in July 2022.The Government of Canada will continue to support the needs of single seniors.
Senior citizensTaxationUnattached individuals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 19, 2022441-00355441-00355 (Business and trade)FrankCaputoKamloops—Thompson—CaribooConservativeBCApril 6, 2022May 19, 2022March 24, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • companies based in Canada are contributing to human rights abuse and environmental damage around the world;
  • people who protest these abuses and defend their rights are often harassed, attacked or killed. Indigenous Peoples, women and marginalized groups are especially under threat; and
  • Canada encourages but does not require companies to prevent such harms in their global operations and supply chains.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation that would:
  • require companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains;
  • require companies do their due diligence, including by carefully assessing how they may be contributing to human rights abuse or environmental damage abroad and by providing access to remedy when harms occur;
  • result in meaningful consequences for companies that fail to carry out and report on adequate due diligence; and
  • establish a legal right for people who have been harmed to seek justice in Canadian courts.
Response by the Minister of LabourSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHANThe Government of Canada is committed to upholding human rights, labour and environmental standards and has in place a variety of initiatives to prevent and address exploitation in global supply chains and to promote responsible business practice abroad.Canada is party to a number of conventions aimed at protecting human rights, including conventions addressing situations of child labour and forced labour. The Government continues to negotiate into Canada’s free trade agreements, enforceable obligations to address child and forced labour. Sanctions or penalties could be imposed on free trade partners that do not live up to these obligations.In addition, the Government introduced the prohibition on the importation of goods produced in whole or in part by forced labour, which came into force under the Customs Tariff on July 1, 2020. This implemented an obligation in the Labour Chapter of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and applies to all goods regardless of country of origin.Furthermore, the Government’s National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking enhances Canada’s efforts to combat human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, both domestically and internationally. The National Strategy is a multi-department horizontal initiative centred on prevention, protection, prosecutions, partnerships, and survivors’ empowerment. As part of this National Strategy, the Government aims to encourage industry partners to implement changes in their supply chains to prevent and reduce the risk of forced labour in government procurement supply chains.On the public procurement front, Canada has strengthened its contracting regime to ensure that federal suppliers adhere to the highest ethical standards and treat their workers with dignity. To this end, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has updated its Code of Conduct for Procurement to include expectations for suppliers and their sub-contractors on human and labour rights. In addition, PSPC has implemented new anti-forced labour contract clauses to ensure that it can terminate contracts where there is credible information that goods have been produced in whole or in part by forced labour or human trafficking. The clauses also enable contract termination if goods do not clear customs because of breaches under the forced labour prohibition in the Customs Tariff.In January 2021, Canada announced several trade measures to address human rights abuses, including forced labour involving Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang. These include: a specialized Xinjiang integrity declaration for Canadian companies; a business advisory on Xinjiang-related entities; enhanced advice to Canadian businesses; export controls; enhanced awareness raising for responsible business conduct related to Xinjiang; and a study on forced labour and supply chain risks, which is now published on Global Affairs Canada’s website.The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies operating abroad to abide by all relevant laws, to respect human rights in their operations, and to adopt best practices and internationally respected guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (RBC). The Government of Canada endorses and promotes internationally respected guidelines, principles, and standards on RBC, including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (https://www.oecd.org/corporate/mne/), the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (https://www.unglobalcompact.org/library/2) and the ILO Tripartite Declaration of Principles Concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (https://www.ilo.org/global/lang--en/index.htm).In terms of remedy, the Government of Canada provides two dispute-resolution mechanisms: Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP) for RBC, and the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE).  The NCP offers dispute resolution for companies operating in any sector for a wide range of issues including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues, and bribery both in Canada or abroad. The NCP can also address complaints directed towards the domestic operations of Canadian companies. In addition, the CORE can review complaints for alleged human rights abuse by Canadian companies operating abroad in the mining, oil, gas and garment sectors. The CORE also has the ability to receive complaints and undertake a review at its own initiative.Canada expects that Canadian companies involved in a dispute-resolution process will participate in good faith. If a Canadian company has not acted in good faith during the course of, or follow-up to the review process with either the NCP or the CORE, recommendations can be made to implement trade measures such as the withdrawal of enhanced trade advocacy support and recommending to Export Development Canada that they decline to provide future financial support to the company.The CORE and the NCP work with complainants and companies to find a solution through fact-finding, discussion and mediation. They are an effective and accessible alternative to judicial resolutions without precluding a party from engaging in other fora. While supply chain legislation is a complex endeavour, policy work is underway to examine legislative elements appropriate for the Canadian context, and which can complement initiatives already in place. The Government’s commitment to upholding human rights and addressing exploitation in global supply chains is reflected in the mandate letter commitment to introduce legislation to eradicate forced labour from the supply chains of Canadian businesses and to ensure that Canadian businesses operating abroad do not contribute to human rights abuses. In addition, the Government published a What We Heard Report (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/reports/what-we-heard-forced-labour-global-supply-chain.html), on March 11, 2022, which provides a summary of past consultations on possible measures to address labour exploitation in supply chains. Stakeholders were invited to review the Report and share any additional feedback (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/international-affairs/consultation-supply-chains.html) by April 8, 2022. The Government will continue to consider the results of consultations moving forward as it advances on this mandate commitment and complementary measures to tackle these important issues.
Canadian companiesCivil and human rightsSocial responsibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00495441-00495 (Foreign affairs)KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLiberalMBMay 19, 2022August 17, 2022March 23, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The Russian Federation has launched an unprovoked and an unjust war against the people of Ukraine;
  • The Russian Federation has committed multiple war crimes against the people of Ukraine, including crimes against peace and crimes against humanity;
  • Russian President Putin has threatened all other nations, including Canada, that are assisting the people of Ukraine in their valiant defence of their country;
  • Tens of thousands of children, moms, and others are leaving Ukraine every day to escape the horrors of war;
  • The Russian Federation's aerial attack is devastating Ukraine as President Zelenskyy and others are calling for an international no-fly zone over Ukraine;
  • Russian President Putin has put nuclear deterrent forces on alert, which is an unprecedented and dangerous escalation; and
  • Russian President Putin is posing a great and immediate risk to Ukraine and her allies.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Immediately provide on-going further lethal weapons and supplies to the defence of Ukraine; 2. Take immediate action to enable the fastest way possible for displaced persons from Ukraine to be able to get to Canada;3. Take on-going actions to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine; and4. Immediately urge NATO allies and Ukraine-friendly countries to seriously consider supporting and enforcing an international no-fly zone over Ukraine.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Canada remains steadfast in its support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. On March 17, 2022, as part of the federal response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Government launched the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET). The CUAET is a special, accelerated pathway to help ensure that Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members of any nationality who are fleeing the conflict are able to quickly come to Canada to seek temporary safe haven. This initiative offers options to visit, work, or study during their three-year stay This is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their immediate family members to come to Canada and eliminates many of the normal visa requirements. There is no charge for immigration documents under this pathway, and its benefits also extend to Ukrainians and their immediate family members who were already here in Canada when the initiative launched, but cannot safely go home. Applications under the CUAET are normally processed within 14 days (upon receipt of a complete, non-complex application), and there is no limit to the number of individuals who can apply.As the situation in Ukraine evolves, IRCC is monitoring developments, tracking application processing closely, and bolstering its actions where needed to support Ukrainians and their families.The Department is working in close collaboration with key internal and external stakeholders, including the Ukrainian-Canadian community, to prepare and implement responses to various escalating scenarios in the region. Measures in place since February 24, 2022, include:
  • Facilitating the departure of Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents, and their accompanying immediate family members, by ensuring expedited processing of travel documents;
  • Dedicated service channels that provide means for clients to obtain the most up to date information available;
  • Prioritization of temporary and permanent residence application processing for Ukrainians, and clients residing in Ukraine, as well as grants of citizenship for adoption;
  • A class-based national interest exemption to allow unvaccinated and partially vaccinated Ukrainian nationals who hold a temporary resident visa or permit to enter Canada;
  • An extension to the temporary public policy that allows some visitors in Canada, including Ukrainians, to apply for a work permit from within Canada if they received a valid job offer; and
  • Waiving of fees for travel and immigration documents, such as for Canadian passports, permanent resident travel documents, proofs of citizenship, visitor visas and work and study permits.
Prime Minister Trudeau announced on April 9, 2022 a series of measures to make it easier for Ukrainians fleeing the war to come to Canada including:
  • Targeted charter flights to Canada for Ukrainians (one of which landed in Winnipeg on May 23; others are destined for Montreal on May 29 and Halifax on June 2);
  • Short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met; and
  • Temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks.
These new measures are helping more Ukrainians take advantage of the dedicated Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) program, while also providing relief to European partners who are currently supporting displaced Ukrainians. 
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayAs of June 15, 2022Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the face of unwarranted Russian aggression as they fight to defend their sovereignty, freedom, and independence.Provision of Military FundingIn September 2015, National Defence launched Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training and capacity-building mission in Ukraine. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces trained over 33,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces, and this is the force that is now bravely defending itself against Russian forces today. In the wake of Russia’s recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine, National Defence has been unwavering in its support and will continue to supply Ukraine with the tools and equipment it needs to defend its sovereignty and security and to win this war.Since February 2022, National Defence has committed $274 million in military equipment requested by Ukraine, including armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, body armour, gas masks, helmets, drone cameras, funding for high-resolution satellite imagery, anti-armour weapons systems, rocket launchers, small arms and ammunition, as well as other highly specialized pieces of military equipment. National Defence has also helped bolster Ukraine’s resilience in cyber space, in conjunction with the Communications Security Establishment. Millions of dollars’ worth of our aid has arrived in Ukraine and is making a difference on the ground at this very moment.Moreover, Canada has committed $147.3 million of the $500 million announced in assistance to Ukraine in Budget 2022. From this funding, Canada is donating over 20,000 rounds of 155mm NATO-standard ammunition, which are compatible with the heavy artillery systems that Canada has already delivered. Canada will also provide 10 replacement barrels to enable to sustainment of these systems and to maintain their distance range and accuracy. We are working around the clock to commit military aid with the remainder of these funds.Additionally, approximately 120 Canadian Armed Forces personnel have been deployed to Poland – under Operation REASSURANCE – to provide care and support to Ukrainian refugees fleeing violence and to support our Polish allies.The Minister of National Defence remains in close contact with Ukraine Minister of Defence, Oleksii Reznkiov, to discuss Ukraine’s most pressing security needs and how Canada can best continue to help. Most recently, the Minister had another productive meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart during the third meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, on the margins of NATO’s Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels.National Defence will continue to support Ukraine through strong, comprehensive military aid in collaboration with our Allies and partners. For example, Canada has deployed two tactical aircrafts to Europe to transport military equipment towards Ukraine. This includes equipment from Canada and our allies. These aircraft have delivered nearly 2 million pounds of aid so far, and this work continues every single day.In order to maintain operational security for our personnel and Ukrainian forces, we are not providing detailed information on deliveries. Similarly, National Defence cannot publicise further details regarding future military aid due to operational security considerations. 
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada condemns President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. The war he has started is in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, and it threatens global peace and security. This war of choice is a war on freedom, on democracy, and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future.Canada and its like-minded partners have been united in ensuring that President Putin and his enablers answer for their actions. Countries have been coordinating closely on responsive measures to enhance support for the people and government of Ukraine and to impose costs on the Russian leadership.Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Government of Canada has provided multifaceted assistance to support Ukraine’s security and defence. Canada has committed over $262 million in military aid to Ukraine, including M-777 artillery guns, which Canadian troops are training Ukrainian forces on, 155 mm ammunition, small arms, Carl Gustav anti-tank weapons, anti-tank rocket launchers, drone cameras, Roshel smart armoured vehicles, de-mining equipment and satellite imagery. Canada’s Operation UNIFIER trained nearly 35,000 members of the Ukrainian military and security forces since its establishment in 2015. Canada is committed to providing Ukraine additional resources to help support its defence needs.Through Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilization Operations Program (PSOPs), Canada is supporting Ukraine with more than $10 million per year in peace and security programming, including: support to the country’s defence and broader security sector; advancing the women, peace and security agenda; and building resilience to disinformation. Since Russia’s February 2022 invasion specifically, PSOPs has approved more than $10 million in new stabilization programming with partners to support Ukrainian resistance and resilience. This programming focuses on supporting Ukrainian civil society and human rights organizations, scaling up mine action efforts, and monitoring and documenting human rights violations.Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced $13.4 million over five years to support the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to counter diverse and evolving foreign threats to democracy, including disinformation. In the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the G7 RRM is monitoring the evolving information environment, sharing assessments, and identifying areas for international collaboration. The G7 RRM is also ramping up collective engagement with civil society and social media platforms to tackle Russia’s unprecedented information war.Canada is also taking steps to remove Russian propaganda and false narratives from Canadian airwaves. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission decided that RT (formerly known as Russia Today) can no longer be distributed by Canadian television service providers as its programming is not in the public interest and is not consistent with Canada’s broadcasting standards.The Government of Canada is also acting to hold President Putin and the Russian regime accountable for the invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities being committed there.Since February 2022, Canada has announced several rounds of severe and hard-hitting sanctions against over 1070 individuals and entities under the Special Economic Measures Act. This includes senior members of the Russian government, military, and oligarchs, including President Putin, his daughters, and his inner circle.We have also imposed sanctions on senior officials of the Belarusian regime, military entities and specific industries, as well as Ukrainian disinformation agents responsible for facilitating and enabling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.These measures are being implemented in close coordination with Canada’s trusted partners including the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others. Collective action has been key to putting effective and impactful economic measures in place.Canada has also severely restricted Russia’s access to the global financial system, including sanctioning the Russian Central Bank and major Russian financial institutions, and supporting efforts to remove key Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system. Canada also revoked Russia and Belarus’ Most Favoured Nation status, applying a 35% tariff on all imports from Russia and Belarus.In addition, Canada has imposed broader sanctions, including prohibitions against the purchase of specific Russian petroleum products, closing its airspace to Russian and Belarusian planes, and banning Russian ships from docking in Canada or passing through Canadian waters. Furthermore, Canada has prohibited the export to Russia and Belarus of a broad range of items related to electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors and lasers, navigation and avionics, marine, aerospace, and transportation.Most recently, Canada sanctioned additional individuals and entities in the defence and financial sectors that were directly or indirectly supporting the Russian regime.Canada prohibited the export to Russia of certain luxury goods and goods that could be used in the manufacturing of weapons and the provision of 28 services to the Russian oil, gas and chemical industries. These include technical, management, accounting, and advertising services vital for the operation of these industries, which account for about 50% of Russia’s federal budget revenues. We also prohibited the import of certain luxury goods from Russia.Canada will complement these measures by banning sanctioned Russians from entering Canada. Legislative changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) have been introduced to ensure foreign nationals subject to sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) are inadmissible to Canada.In coordination with allies and partners, Canada will continue to escalate sanctions and close loopholes to maximize pressure against the Russian regime until President Putin stops his war and turns to good-faith diplomacy. These measures are designed to hit at the heart of Russia’s economy and limit its ability to fund the war.As per Canada’s commitments made as a member of the Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO) multilateral taskforce, Canada has proposed legislative amendments that would allow for the seizure and forfeiture of assets belonging to sanctioned individuals and entities. The proceeds generated from the sale of these assets may be used for compensation to victims, the reconstruction of affected states, and the restoration of international peace and security. Canada will be a leader in this sanctions space once these new measures come into force. On the humanitarian assistance front, since January 2022, the Government of Canada has provided $245 million in humanitarian assistance to UN, Red Cross, and NGO partners to respond to the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine and neighbouring countries. This includes support for the World Food Programme in Ukraine to address food security needs, as well as a $30 million matching fund with the Canadian Red Cross, which has raised over $128.5 million in addition to the funds committed by the Government of Canada. Canada also sent 20 cargo flights with more than 377,000 essential relief items and financed the deployment of humanitarian exports to support the UN and Res Cross responses in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, cohosted the “Stand Up for Ukraine” pledging event to rally a broad base of support, which raised over $12.4 billion in pledges. The funds will help to provide emergency health services, protection, and meet other urgent needs including food, water and shelter. The Prime Minister also announced the provision of 345,000 relief supplies from Canada’s National Emergency Stockpiles. These supplies are part of Canada’s efforts to address gaps in the relief pipeline by delivering essential non-food items to Ukraine and the region, and are in addition to the 31,000 supplies already provided from Global Affairs Canada stockpiles.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is complemented by an increase of $35 million in development assistance that is addressing emerging priorities, including supporting the resilience of Ukraine's government institutions and civil society organizations so they are better able to meet the needs of Ukrainians, in particular women and vulnerable groups. In addition, Canada recently allocated $7 million in development assistance to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support those impacted by Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), as well as $2 million for the completion of a dairy plant in western Ukraine, to support food security efforts. Canada has also provided fast flexibility to development partners to allow them to rapidly shift project activities to address immediate needs, protect previous development gains, and mitigate the impact of the invasion on vulnerable populations.Canada has offered up to $620 million in bilateral loans to enhance Ukraine’s economic resilience in the midst of Russian aggression, of which $500 million has already been provided. Furthermore, Canada has offered up to $1.25 billion in additional loan resources to the Ukrainian government through a new Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), so that the government can continue to operate. Canada worked with the government of Ukraine, the IMF, and other IMF member countries to develop this facility and encourage allies and partners to participate.Canada profoundly condemns the appalling atrocities by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other Ukrainian towns. The attacks on civilian infrastructure and murders of civilians and non-combatants constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.Canada referred the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in concert with other ICC member states as a result of numerous allegations of serious international crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Canada will not spare any effort to ensure that violations of international law in Ukraine are investigated, evidence is gathered, and perpetrators are held to account. To support the ICC investigations, Canada deployed an additional seven RCMP officers to the ICC and announced $1 million in funding to augment the court’s ability to investigate and prosecute conflict-related sexual violence and crimes against children. Canada is also supporting the deployment of two experts from the UN Women roster to support the UN Human Rights Council Commission of Inquiry (COI) on issues of sexual violence and gender.Canada coordinated a joint statement, issued on May 20 with 43 signatories, expressing support for Ukraine’s application against Russia at the International Court of Justice. Ukraine’s application seeks to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide. Canada also welcomed the Court’s provisional measures order ordering Russia to cease its military operations in Ukraine, and demanded that President Putin withdraw his forces immediately.Further, Canada, and 44 other participating States, invoked the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Moscow Mechanism to establish a fact-finding mission and a subsequent follow-up mission to Ukraine to report on the human rights and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s illegal invasion. Canada is also supportive of the ongoing work of the independent investigation commission mandated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to investigate violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.The Government of Canada is engaging in intense diplomacy within NATO and the G7, the UN, and with the EU and the broader international community to build support and solidarity for Ukraine. The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and International Development have all heavily engaged in these efforts.Canada co-sponsored and strongly advocated for three UN General Assembly resolutions to condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, to censure the resulting humanitarian consequences, and most recently, to suspend Russia from the HRC. These historic resolutions demonstrated the international community’s strong commitment to defending the UN Charter and the rules-based international system. The April 7 vote on the “Suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the Human Rights Council” passed with the necessary two-thirds majority vote, excluding abstentions and non-votes. Russia’s HRC membership term, which was set to expire in 2023, was therefore suspended. This sent a strong message that the international community will hold Russia accountable for its human rights violations and abuses in Ukraine. As a result, Russia announced its withdrawal from the HRC.Canada also voted in favour of resolutions in support of Ukraine at the Organization of American States, the HRC, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization and l'Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Canada was actively engaged in outreach for the Special Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization on April 8, during which a decision was adopted condemning Russian aggression and its consequences on global food security.Canada continues to explore all available options to hold Russia accountable, including censuring and isolating Russia in international forums in coordination with like-minded partners. Canada will continue to assess and prioritize where and how to act against Russia.To assist Ukrainians fleeing the war and to help ease the burden on Ukraine’s neighbouring countries, the Government of Canada announced two new immigration streams: the temporary Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel, launched on March 17, 2022, and a special permanent residence stream for family reunification (permanent, and in development).On March 11, 2022, the Prime Minister announced that Canada was investing an additional $117 million to implement Canada’s new immigration measures to expedite the processing of applications and to provide support to newcomers once they arrive in Canada. As of June 7, almost 40, 000 Ukrainian citizens and returning Canadian permanent residents of Ukrainian origin have arrived in Canada. Temporary federal support to help Ukrainians settle in their new communities will include language training, services to help access the labour market, as well as information about and orientation to life in Canada. On April 9, 2022, the Prime Minister announced an additional series of measures to make coming to Canada easier, including targeted charter flights for Ukrainians, short-term income support to ensure basic needs are met, and temporary hotel accommodation for up to two weeks. As of June 2, three charter flights from Poland have arrived in Winnipeg, Montreal, and Halifax.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the widespread destruction of cities and civilian infrastructure due to missile and artillery strikes, as well as bombing by Russian airplanes. Only the UN Security Council (UNSC) can make a legally binding decision that all member States must refrain from flight to, from or through the airspace of a specific State or region, pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII. In the current situation, Russia, as a permanent member of the UNSC, would veto any such resolution.Enforcing a no-fly zone is not a passive act; it would require sending aircraft and ground-based air defence systems from NATO Member States to target and possibly shoot down Russian aircraft violating the airspace in question, in order to prevent that aircraft from carrying out offensive operations on the terrain below.This would be a use of force, making the country that conducted the strike a party to the conflict, and it would also mean that NATO Member States would become targets themselves.NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has stated that imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine would “significantly escalate the war”, risking a “full-fledged war in Europe” between NATO and Russia and lead to “much more human suffering, civilian casualties, destruction”. This is why NATO Allies are providing significant support to Ukraine through sanctions, military aid and in multilateral forums, while not directly engaging in the conflict.We will continue to support Ukraine, including by providing them with the military aid they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.All options for future action remain on the table. Together with the international community and working with the Government of Ukraine, Canada will continue to call on President Putin to end his war, withdraw his troops and military assets from Ukraine, and choose diplomacy.Canada is unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine and will continue to support its government and people as they defend their sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence. Together with our allies, we will ensure Russia’s actions do not go unpunished.
Air defenceHumanitarian assistance and workersMilitary weaponsPassports and visasRussiaUkraineWar
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 8, 2023441-01337441-01337 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 25, 2023June 8, 2023February 11, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:Although Canadians Micheal Spavor and Micheal Korvig have recently been released after 1000 days of unjust detention in China, there are at least 115 Canadians still being detained in China including Huseyin Celil who has been detained for over 5000 days; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian Uyghur human rights activist who is detained in China for supporting the political and religious rights of Uyghurs; Huseyin Celil is a Canadian citizen, who escaped China into Uzbekistan after being unjustly jailed for 48 days in 2001 and on recognition from the United Nations as a refugee, migrated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship and gave up his Chinese citizenship; The Chinese government has refused to accept Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship, and denied access to lawyers, family and Canadian officials, while he was coerced into signing a confession and underwent an unlawful and unfair trial;Evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and Canada cannot remain silent in the face of the unjust suffering of a Canadian citizen. Therefore we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions to address the situation: 1. Demand that the Chinese government recognize Huseyin Celil's Canadian citizenship and provide him with consular and legal services in accordance with international law; 2. Formally state that the release of Huseyin Celil from Chinese detainment and his return to Canada is a priority of the Canadian government of equal concern as the unjust detentions of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor; 3. Appoint a special envoy to work on securing Mr. Celil's release; and 4. Seek assistance of the Biden Administration and other allies around the world in obtaining Mr. Celil's release.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe case of Mr. Huseyincan Celil is a priority for Canada, as the Government of Canada continues to be deeply concerned with his detention. Canada has repeatedly raised Mr. Celil’s case with the government of China at the highest levels, and will continue to do so. While privacy considerations prevent the sharing of details, the Government of Canada remains actively engaged in his case. The Government of Canada will continue to seek access to Mr. Celil in order to verify his well-being.The safety and well-being of Canadians abroad remain of utmost importance to Canada.
Canadians in foreign countriesCelil, HuseyincanChinaCivil and human rights
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 6, 2022441-00248441-00248 (Social affairs and equality)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABMarch 23, 2022May 6, 2022February 7, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWHEREAS:The Liberal Party of Canada was elected on a promise to revoke charitable status for pro-life organizations, such as Crisis Pregnancy Centres, which counsel young women and save countless lives every year;Revoking the charitable status of pro-life organizations is a first step towards even more tyrannical measures to eradicate the values and principles of Christian Canadians, meaning churches may be next; andRevoking the charitable status of pro-life organizations will result in an explosion in the number of brutal abortions committed in Canada each year, slaughtering thousands of innocent babies.THEREFORE, be it resolved, that the undersigned do hereby call upon Members of Parliament to do everything in their power to prevent, block, organize against, and vote against any effort by the government to revoke the charitable status of pro-life organizations in Canada.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.
AbortionCharitable organizations
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 20, 2022441-00371441-00371 (Social affairs and equality)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABApril 6, 2022May 20, 2022February 7, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. Registered charities that provide reproductive health services are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter.  
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament229Not certifiedApril 14, 2022e-3836e-3836 (Foreign affairs)MaudeLaplante-DubéAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNDPQCFebruary 11, 2022, at 3:26 p.m. (EDT)April 12, 2022, at 3:26 p.m. (EDT)April 14, 2022Petition to the<Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1"> Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:Global, equitable access to a COVID-19 vaccine is needed to reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;COVID-19 vaccination rates in low-income countries and even in some middle-income countries remain far too low to slow global transmission of the virus;As long as the COVID-19 virus continues to infect large numbers of people worldwide, variants will continue to emerge;Distribution of vaccine doses promised by Canada through COVAX is sluggish; and Legal mechanisms, such as compulsory or voluntary licensing, can be used to decentralize the production of vaccines and make it possible for them to be manufactured by laboratories other than those of the pharmaceutical companies that have commercialized them.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Accelerate the distribution of COVAX vaccine doses;2. Work to decentralize vaccine production by exploring legal mechanisms to do so and supporting one of them; and3. Use its diplomatic weight to act as a global leader to ensure access to vaccines for all, especially in less fortunate countries.COVAXCOVID-19ImmunizationInternational development and aidPandemic44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2024441-02088441-02088 (Social affairs and equality)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABFebruary 6, 2024March 21, 2024April 22, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas: The Liberal Party of Canada has promised in its 2021 platform to deny the charitable status of organizations that have convictions about abortion which the Liberal Party views as "dishonest"; This may jeopardize the charitable status of hospitals, houses of worship, schools, homeless shelters, and other charitable organizations which do not agree with the Liberal Party on this matter for reasons of conscience;Many Canadians depend upon and benefit from the charitable work done by such organizations;The government has previously used a "values test" to discriminate against worthy applicants to the Canada Summer Jobs Program, denying funding to any organization which was not willing to check a box endorsing political positions of the governing party;Charities and other non-profit organizations should not be discriminated against on the basis of their political views or religious values and should not be subject to a politicized "values test"; andAll Canadians have a right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to freedom of expression without discrimination.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Protect and preserve the application of charitable status rules on a politically and ideologically neutral basis, without discrimination on the basis of political or religious values and without the imposition of another "values test"; and 2. Affirm the right of Canadians to freedom of expression.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandCanada's charitable sector is diverse and vibrant. From education to social support services, an estimated 86,000 registered charities engage in public benefit activities that touch almost every aspect of Canadian life. Registered charities are provided important supports under the tax system, including an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive.With these benefits, all registered charities are required to follow rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act and common law, including ensuring the information that they provide is accurate and evidence-based. This includes registered charities that provide reproductive health services, who are required to provide accurate and evidence-based information to women with respect to their rights and options at all stages of their pregnancy. In this regard, the Government of Canada is committed to taking action to ensure that organizations that provide dishonest counselling to pregnant women are ineligible for charitable registration, while respecting Canadians’ right to freedom of expression and freedom of conscience and religion under the Charter. All Canadians should have the information they need to freely make decisions over their own bodies and have access to the medical care and services that are their legal right. 
Charitable organizationsDiscriminationFreedom of conscience and religion
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00518441-00518 (Taxation)AlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordNDPBCJune 6, 2022September 20, 2022April 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The current income tax system for seniors gives couples numerous ways to lower taxes, while singles get none;
  • Senior couples can split their pension income, thereby allowing them to pay less tax and qualify for the Age Amount Tax Credit and the Old Age Security (OAS) with limited or no clawbacks;
  • Senior singles have no such benefits, pay higher taxes, often forfeit the Age Amount Tax Credit, and endure OAS clawbacks;
  • When one partner dies within a couple, their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) and Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) can be rolled into the RRSP, RRIF and TFSA of the remaining partner;
  • A single person's RRSP and RRIF is cashed upon death and declared as income, which results in higher taxes, often 50%;
  • The cost of living for a single person is two-thirds of the cost of living for a couple;
  • Single person households are growing faster than any other type of household in Canada, according to Statistics Canada; and
  • Of the six million seniors in Canada, over one-third are single seniors, many of them women, and this demographic will continue to grow.
We, the undersigned, single seniors and other citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Offer tax benefits to senior singles equal to those now in place for senior couples, which would include: (a) Offering single seniors a reduction of 30% on their income to be taxed (for example, if a single senior has a taxable income of $100,000, reduce the taxable amount by 30% to $70,000); and(b) Allowing, upon death, single seniors with un RRSP, RRIF or TFSA to transfer it to the RRSP, RRIF or TFSA of a beneficiary of their choice.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada understands that, after a lifetime of hard work, Canadians have earned a secure and dignified retirement. In this regard, single seniors, current and future, may have benefitted and continue to benefit from important measures implemented by the government, including:
  • An increase to the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) top-up benefit for low-income single seniors by up to $947 annually, raising benefits for nearly 900,000 low-income seniors.
  • The restoration of the eligibility age for Old Age Security (OAS) and GIS benefits to age 65, reversing a previous government’s plan to raise it to 67. This will put thousands of dollars back in the pockets of Canadians as they become seniors.
  • The introduction of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) enhancement, which began on January 1, 2019 and will raise the maximum CPP retirement benefits by up to 50 percent over time.
  • An enhancement to the GIS earnings exemption to provide a full or partial exemption on up to $15,000 of annual employment and self-employment income for each GIS or Allowance recipient.
  • Changes to proactively enroll CPP contributors who are 70 years of age or older to help ensure that all workers receive the full value of the benefits to which they contributed.
  • A one-time special payment through the Goods and Services Tax credit in April 2020, which provided an average of $375 to single seniors for a total investment of $1.3 billion.
  • Another one-time tax-free payment of $300 for those eligible for an OAS pension with an extra $200 for those eligible for GIS for a total investment of $2.5 billion.
  • Beginning  July 2022, all seniors age 75 and older, including single seniors, have started to benefit from the ten percent increase to the OAS pension. This will provide over $800 in additional benefits to full pensioners in the first year.
Seniors can also avail themselves of a number of targeted tax relief measures, such as the Age Credit and Pension Income Credit. Seniors, and those who support them, may also benefit from tax credits such as the Disability Tax Credit, the Medical Expense Tax Credit, and the Home Accessibility Tax Credit.Single seniors may also benefit from general tax relief that the government has recently introduced. For example, the government is increasing the amount of money Canadians can earn before paying federal income tax to $15,000 by 2023 for all but the wealthiest Canadians, which will save single individuals close to $300 every year. When the increases are fully implemented in 2023, 4.3 million seniors will benefit, including 465,000 whose federal income tax will be reduced to zero.This measure builds on the success of key initiatives like the middle-class tax cut, which is benefitting over nine million Canadians. Single individuals who benefit from that measure are seeing an average tax reduction of $330 every year.  The tax relief currently available to seniors and pensioners allows a single senior to earn at least $24,296 (assuming at least $2,000 in income eligible for the Pension Income Credit) before paying federal income tax in 2022.The Government of Canada will continue to support the needs of single seniors.
Senior citizensTaxationUnattached individuals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 15, 2023441-01403441-01403 (Foreign affairs)TomKmiecCalgary ShepardConservativeABMay 2, 2023June 15, 2023May 2, 2022Petition to the House of CommonsWhereas:
  • Free and fair trials, judicial independence, and the rule of law are all cornerstones to Canada's democracy;
  • Since June 2019, protests for democracy, freedom, universal suffrage, and regional autonomy have been occurring in Hong Kong;
  • On many occasions, peaceful protestors of Hong Kong are charged and convicted of penal offences through a judiciary that is neither impartial, fair, or free;
  • The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c.27), Section 36 renders foreign nationals who have committed or been convicted of a foreign offence outside Canada inadmissible on grounds of criminality and serious criminality; and
  • Hong Kong people who have been arbitrarily charged and convicted with pro-democracy movement related penal offences for political purposes are at risk of being deemed inadmissible to enter Canada.
We, the undersigned, citizens and permanent residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Recognize the politicization of the judiciary in Hong Kong and its impact on the legitimacy and validity of criminal convictions; 2. Affirm its commitment to render all National Security Law charges and convictions irrelevant and invalid in relation to Section 36(1)(c); 3. Create a mechanism by which Hong Kong people with pro-democracy movement related convictions may provide an explanation for such convictions, on the basis of which Government officials can grant exemptions to Hong Kong people who are deemed inadmissible under A36(1)(b), (2)(b), and (2)(c) upon examination of the circumstances and determination that the applicant's criminal record is political in nature; and 4. Work with the United Kingdom, United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other democracies to waive criminal inadmissibility of Hong Kong people convicted for political purposes, who otherwise do not have a criminal record.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Marie-France Lalonde, M.P.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Foreign charges and convictions are examined to see whether they would have been an offence under Canadian laws if they had occurred in Canada.Immigration officers determine if there is an equivalent offence in Canada for the act committed. If there is no equivalent offence, the individual would not be inadmissible for having committed or being convicted for that offence. For example, as there is no equivalent offence in Canada for peaceful protesting, a charge or conviction for having partaken in such activities would not make an individual inadmissible to Canada.Where there are some similarities between the foreign law and Canadian law, a person would only be inadmissible if the underlying action is considered an offence in Canada.Immigration officers review all applications on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific facts presented by the applicant. All inadmissibility decisions are based on evidence, which may consist of police or intelligence reports, statutory declarations or other documents—such as media articles or publicly-available information.Decision-makers are required to follow the rules of procedural fairness throughout the decision-making process. In the event that an immigration officer has concerns over the criminal admissibility of an applicant, the individual is informed and given an opportunity to provide a response to concerns about their application.If an officer determines that an applicant is inadmissible to come to Canada, they may consider, on a case-by-case basis, using relief mechanisms available under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. For example, a temporary resident permit may be issued, when justified in the circumstances, to allow an inadmissible foreign national to enter Canada.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada has a special relationship with Hong Kong that is rooted in a shared history and extensive commercial, institutional and people-to-people ties.(1) The maintenance of Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, as expressed through the One Country, Two Systems framework, is a high priority for the Government of Canada. Under this framework, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is vested with executive, legislative and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. Canada remains committed to supporting Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy within the One Country, Two Systems framework, and to working with international partners to advance the goal of a free, stable and prosperous Hong Kong where human rights and fundamental freedoms under the Basic Law are guaranteed. We will continue to monitor developments in Hong Kong closely, including those relating to the territory’s judicial system, and reserve the right to undertake appropriate action in response to future developments.(4) In advance of the imposition of the National Security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on May 22, 2020, expressing deep concern over proposals to introduce national security legislation in Hong Kong. Another statement was issued with Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States on May 28, 2020, reiterating concerns over the anticipated introduction of the National Security Law. On June 17, 2020, Canada joined its G7 partners to release a joint statement urging China to reconsider its decision.Following the imposition and implementation of the National Security Law, Canada has worked in concert with international partners to support the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Hong Kong residents and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the Basic Law and the One Country, Two Systems framework. Canada also announced new immigration initiatives for Hong Kong and has sought to complement and align these initiatives with measures taken by our likeminded partners.Subsequently, following the adoption by the National People’s Congress of a package of changes to the electoral system in Hong Kong in March 2021, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union, also released a joint statement expressing grave concerns at the Chinese authorities’ decision. The joint statement made it clear such a decision strongly indicates that the authorities in mainland China are determined to eliminate dissenting voices and opinions in Hong Kong, while also stifling political pluralism, contrary to the aim of moving towards universal suffrage as set out in the Basic Law.The wider chilling effects of the National Security Law and the growing restrictions on freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, which are being felt across civil society is deeply concerning. On December 20, 2021 Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as the Foreign Ministers of the G7, noting the outcome of the Legislative Council elections in Hong Kong, issued separate statements expressing grave concern over the erosion of democratic elements of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s electoral system. On February 17, 2022, Canada and 21 other members of the Media Freedom Coalition issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern at the Chinese authorities’ attacks on freedom of the press and their suppression of independent local media in Hong Kong.While Canada and its partners share a common interest in Hong Kong’s prosperity and security, each country has its own legislative framework and is responsible for applying its own sovereign rules and procedures, including those related to immigration and admissibility.Foreign nationals who are charged or convicted for an offence outside Canada are not automatically barred from entering or remaining in Canada. Inadmissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Civil and human rightsCriminal recordsForeign policyHong KongImmigration and immigrants
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 5, 2022441-00775441-00775 (Environment)RichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayNDPBCOctober 21, 2022December 5, 2022April 5, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned Canadians, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • the impacts of climate change are accelerating in Canada and around the world;
  • Canada has endorsed the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 °C in order to avoid the most disastrous effects of climate change, yet greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have failed to decline in Canada;
  • Canada's current GHG reduction targets are not consistent with doing our fair share to meet the global goals agreed upon in Paris to mitigate climate change;
  • our fossil fuel extraction industries are significant contributors to Canada's GHG emissions;
  • subsidizing fossil fuel production, export and expansion, including new pipelines, are not compatible with the stated goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and
  • the government's continued support of the fossil fuel industry, in spite of scientific evidence of the cumulative damage of emissions, puts our future in danger.
THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to take urgent cooperative action to fulfill Canada's obligations under the Paris Agreement, through:
  • a just transition off of fossil fuel that leaves no-one behind;
  • eliminating federal fossil fuel subsidies; and
  • halting the expansion of fossil fuel production in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global clean energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector – one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries while exporting products and technologies around the world.  The Government also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective energy transition must ensure a stronger economy, a cleaner environment and good, sustainable jobs for all Canadians.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the opportunities of the energy transition – by decarbonizing Canada’s energy sector and making thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors such as clean technology and renewable energy. Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, released on March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap for sector-by-sector emission reductions to meet Canada’s targets for the end of this decade and put Canada on the path to net-zero by 2050.As part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and accelerated timelines to do so by 2023. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also demonstrated its support for the Canadian oil and gas sector’s net-zero emissions ambitions by announcing that it will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with Canada’s climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.At COP27, Canada also joined the United States (U.S.) in a shared commitment to reduce emissions from the oil and gas sector. The U.S.-led Joint Declaration from Energy Importers and Exporters on Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Fossil Fuels, focuses on solutions to lower methane emissions across the fossil energy value chain.At the same time, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support Canadian workers and communities in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Public consultations to inform the development of just transition legislation were launched in July 2021 and have included 17 roundtable sessions with a range of stakeholders, including workers and labour organizations, industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, youth, and experts in skills and training as well as diversity and inclusion. The Government is also in discussions with the provinces and territories, and with Indigenous partners, to understand their priorities and perspectives as it seeks to introduce federal legislation early in 2023.In addition, Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. This includes working with Employment and Social Development Canada to advance growth opportunities in the natural resource sectors, as well as ways to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.The 2022 federal budget announced actions that will deliver approximately 500,000 training and job opportunities for Canadians, enabling them to take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy sectors. These investments include the $960 million Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program that will help both workers and employers by supporting solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs.Building on those job-creation efforts, the Government’s Fall Economic Statement on November 3, 2022, included the launch of a Sustainable Jobs Secretariat, which is a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program, and the creation of a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers in key sectors and occupations improve their skills or gain new ones for the net-zero economy.The Fall Economic Statement also proposes a number of important new initiatives to strengthen Canada’s economic competitiveness and attract new investments in clean growth. These include the Investment Tax Credit for Clean Technologies, which would provide a refundable tax credit equal to 30 per cent of the capital cost of investments in clean energy technologies for claimants that meet certain labour conditions (20 per cent rate for those who do not), and the formal unveiling of the Canada Growth Fund, which seeks to attract billions of dollars in private capital to reduce Canada’s emissions, grow the economy and create good jobs.Amid this concerted action, the government is also launching Regional Energy and Resource Tables to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, experts, labour organizations and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to delivering bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTIn 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45 per cent below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Act also holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets, based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada published the first Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target as a concrete milestone that improves transparency and accountability on the way to net-zero. The 2030 ERP includes a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, $9.1 billion in new investments, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Achieving further emissions reductions, in line with Canada’s 2030 and 2050 commitments, will require significant and ongoing effort. The Government of Canada is optimistic that, together, Canadians can achieve real and lasting emission reductions, while sharing and exporting our climate solutions to the world and supporting the workers and communities affected by the global transition towards a low-carbon future.Looking forward, the transition to a cleaner future will bring new, dynamic opportunities across our labour force. To put workers across Canada at the forefront of building a net-zero emissions economy, the Government of Canada is committed to help Canadians have the skills they need to succeed and to enable the economy to have the workers it needs to thrive. Building on Budget 2021 investments in skills development, including through the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program, Skills for Success, and the Apprenticeship Service, the Government is proposing to invest $250 million to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy through the 2022 Fall Economic Statement.In 2009, G20 leaders committed to “rationalize and phase out over the medium term inefficient fossil fuel subsidies while providing targeted support for the poorest”. At the North American Leaders’ Summit on June 29, 2016, Canada, the United States and Mexico publicly committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025. Canada committed to accelerate the timing of this commitment to 2023.Environment and Climate Change Canada and Finance Canada are working together to identify and assess relevant measures in order to fulfill Canada’s G20 commitment. The Government of Canada has made important progress and nine tax measures providing preferential tax treatment to the fossil fuel sector have been, or are in the process of being, rationalized or phased out.In June 2018, the Government of Canada announced that it would undertake a peer review through the G20 process. The peer review process will increase transparency on Canada’s actions to fulfil the G20 commitment and further reaffirm our commitment to climate action.  Canada is developing a report listing federal fossil fuel subsidies including a description of the subsidies, annual costs and analysis of the subsidies. This report will be submitted as part of Canada’s peer review, and will be published once the peer review is finalized.
Environmental protectionFossil fuelsParis Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00571441-00571 (Health)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCJune 14, 2022September 20, 2022May 10, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Statistics Canada cites that approximately 4.8 million Canadians do not have a regular doctor;
  • Despite the number of physicians in Canada growing, the number of Canadians without a regular doctor remains stable;
  • 92 per cent of physicians work in urban centres, while just 8 per cent work in rural areas; and
  • In Victoria and Sidney, B.C., average wait time for a walk-in clinic are 92 and 180 minutes respectively.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Work with all the provinces and territories in Canada to come to a holistic and fair solution to Canada's family doctor shortage.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Adam van KoeverdenPrimary care is the backbone of high-performing health care, serving as Canadians’ first point of contact with the system and playing a critical role in the delivery of health services. We understand that Canadians still struggle to secure timely access to regular primary care provider or team. Approximately 14% of Canadians aged 12 years and older lack a regular primary health care provider, and people living in rural communities can have an even harder time accessing high-quality primary care in a timely manner. The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated these challenges; health care workers bore the brunt of the extreme pressures of the health system, leading to significant vacancies, shortages, stress and burnout.Improving primary care access and working toward a future in which all Canadians and residents have timely access to a primary care provider or team is a key priority for the government. Our government continues to partner with the provinces and territories on this critical issue, building on a foundation of FPT collaboration initiated during the pandemic. In March 2020, the Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) Virtual Care and Digital Health Table was struck, to facilitate collaboration on ways to maintain access to the health system through virtual care. Supported by the strong collaboration of this FPT Table, the government began flowing $240.5M to help Canadian health systems support access to health care services, including primary care, through virtual approaches and digital tools. Of this, $150M is flowing directly to provinces and territories through bilateral agreements to address the challenges of delivering health care during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. As well, by virtue of the strong collaboration of that same FPT Table, Health Canada is also supporting a two-year project, led by the Centre for Digital Health Evaluation, to evaluate the benefits of virtual care and support capacity building within provinces and territories.Like other countries, Canada is facing significant challenges in recruiting and retaining health workers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.  High patient loads, absenteeism due to illness, and fear for personal safety have led to unprecedented levels of burnout, absences, and turnover. This builds on longstanding issues which limit Canada’s ability to recruit, retain and appropriately plan for the health workers we need. These are real issues that require thoughtful discussions. Canadians expect the federal, provincial and territorial governments to work together to make meaningful change and support the health workforce in this country.Our government is working with provincial and territorial to share best practices and identify opportunities to scale and spread promising practices across the country. We have also been engaging with health system partners and stakeholders over recent months to further understand the health workforce gaps and needs, and work collaboratively to identify concrete solutions to address the challenges and to deliver results for Canadians, their families and our health care workers.The Government has taken action to address key concerns voiced by health care providers, including:
  • Amendments to the Criminal Code (under the former Bill C-3), in order to ensure health care workers are safe and free from threats, violence and harassment.
  • Budget 2022 provided $26.2 million in funding to increase the forgivable amount of student loans for doctors and nurses who practise in rural and remote communities. This will mean up to $30,000 in loan forgiveness for nurses and up to $60,000 in loan forgiveness for doctors working in underserved rural or remote communities. It also proposes expanding the list of eligible professionals under the program in order to help bring more health care workers to the communities who need them most.
  • Budget 2022 provided an additional $140 million over two years to the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) portal, which offers free, confidential mental health and substance use tools and services for frontline health care workers. These online services can also be accessed through PocketWell, WTC companion app.
  • Additionally, Budget 2022 provided $115 million over five years, with $30 million ongoing, to expand the Foreign Credential Recognition Program and help up to 11,000 internationally trained health care professionals per year get their credentials recognized and find work in their field. It will also support projects — including standardized national exams, easier access to information, faster timelines, and less red tape — that will reduce barriers to foreign credential recognition for health care professionals.
  • This is in addition to a $2 billion top-up to the Canada Health Transfer, provided to provinces and territories, to reduce backlogs caused by COVID-19. This is helping to support the health and well-being of Canadians and those on the frontlines of our health care system. This investment supplements the Budget 2021 investment of $4 billion through the Canada Health Transfer to help provinces and territories address immediate health care system pressures.
Through these various activities, our government continues to work with provinces and territories to help Canadians have timely access to a regular primary care provider or team, as best suits their respective challenges and contexts. Going forward, we are committed to continuing that record of collaboration to building on progress already made in order to advance Canadians’ priority of better access to primary care.
Family doctorsHealth services accessibility
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 18, 2023441-01509441-01509 (Civil and human rights)WarrenSteinleyRegina—LewvanConservativeSKJune 5, 2023September 18, 2023May 16, 2022Petition to the House of Commons We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: Canadians have the right to be protected against discrimination; Canadians can and do face political discrimination;It is a fundamental Canadian right to be politically active and vocal;It is in the best interest of Canadian democracy to protect public debate and the exchange of differing ideas; and Bill C-257 seeks to add protection against political discrimination to the Canadian Human Rights Act.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:1. Support Bill C-257 which bans discrimination on the basis of political belief or activity; and 2. Defend the rights of Canadians to peacefully express their political opinions.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Arif ViraniBill C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief), proposes to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to add “political belief or activity” to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination.The Government believes that all Canadians are deserving of equal respect, consideration and protection from discrimination. In addition, freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of our democracy and is constitutionally protected in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter). The ability to express one’s opinions breathes life into such rights and democratic values as freedom of political expression and freedom of association. The Government is firmly committed to respecting and upholding the Charter and its protections, including in respect of political expression.The Bill will follow the legislative process and be debated in accordance with rules governing Private Members Bills.
C-257, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)DiscriminationPolitical behaviour
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00594441-00594 (Taxation)LarryBrockBrantford—BrantConservativeONJune 16, 2022September 20, 2022June 7, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWHEREAS:
  • The current income tax system for seniors gives couples numerous ways to lower taxes, while singles get none;
  • Senior couples can split their pension income, thereby allowing them to pay less tax and qualify for the Age Amount Tax Credit and the Old Age Security (OAS) with limited or no clawbacks;
  • Senior singles have no such benefits, pay higher taxes, often forfeit the Age Amount Tax Credit, and endure OAS clawbacks;
  • When one partner dies within a couple, their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) and Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) can be rolled into the RRSP, RRIF and TFSA of the remaining partner;
  • A single person's RRSP and RRIF is cashed upon death and declared as income, which results in higher taxes, often 50%;
  • The cost of living for a single person is two-thirds of the cost of living for a couple;
  • Single person households are growing faster than any other type of household in Canada, according to Statistics Canada; and
  • Of the six million seniors in Canada, over one-third are single seniors, many of them women, and this demographic will continue to grow.
We, the undersigned, single seniors and other citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:Offer tax benefits to senior singles equal to those now in place for senior couples, which would include: (a) Offering single seniors a reduction of 30% on their income to be taxed (for example, if a single senior has a taxable income of $100,000, reduce the taxable amount by 30% to $70,000); and(b) Allowing, upon death, single seniors with un RRSP, RRIF or TFSA to transfer it to the RRSP, RRIF or TFSA of a beneficiary of their choice.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government of Canada understands that, after a lifetime of hard work, Canadians have earned a secure and dignified retirement. In this regard, single seniors may benefit from a number of targeted tax relief measures, such as the Age Credit and Pension Income Credit. Seniors, and those who support them, may also benefit from tax credits such as the Disability Tax Credit, the Medical Expense Tax Credit, and the Home Accessibility Tax Credit.Single seniors may also benefit from general tax relief that the government has recently introduced. For example, the government is increasing the amount of money Canadians can earn before paying federal income tax to $15,000 by 2023 for all but the wealthiest Canadians, which will save single individuals close to $300 every year. When the increases are fully implemented in 2023, 4.3 million seniors will benefit, including 465,000 whose federal income tax will be reduced to zero.This measure builds on the success of key initiatives like the middle-class tax cut, which is benefitting over nine million Canadians. Single individuals who benefit from that measure are seeing an average tax reduction of $330 every year.  The tax relief currently available to seniors and pensioners allows a single senior to earn at least $24,296 (assuming at least $2,000 in income eligible for the Pension Income Credit) before paying federal income tax in 2022.Beyond the tax system, single seniors may also be eligible for targeted support. For example, the government has more than doubled the maximum Guaranteed Income Supplement top-up benefit for low-income single seniors. As well, single seniors age 75 and older stand to benefit from the ten percent increase to the Old Age Security Pension beginning in July 2022.The Government of Canada will continue to support the needs of single seniors.
Senior citizensTaxationUnattached individuals
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 25, 2022441-00170441-00170 (Foreign affairs)DamienKurekBattle River—CrowfootConservativeABFebruary 9, 2022March 25, 2022October 21, 2020Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, a new report published by the Associated Press has revealed that there has been an ongoing campaign of Uyghur birth suppression by the Chinese Communist Party which includes methods such as forced sterilization and abortion; and, Whereas, in addition to the recent news of coordinated Uyghur birth suppression, there is also a body of mounting evidence showing that Uyghurs are being subject to political and anti-religious indoctrination, arbitrary detention, separation of children from families, invasive surveillance, destruction of cultural sites, forced labor, and even forced organ harvesting; moreover, it is estimated that up to three million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities have been detained in what have been described as concentration camps; and, Whereas, evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and, Whereas, Canada cannot remain silent in the face of this ongoing atrocity. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Formally recognize that Uyghurs in China have been and are being subject to genocide. 2. Use the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act ("Magnitsky Act") and sanction those that are responsible for the heinous crimes being committed against the Uyghur people.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and is a priority in the Government of Canada’s engagement with China. The nature and scale of the human rights violations by Chinese authorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), under the pretext of countering extremism, are deeply disturbing. Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities face torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, obligatory patriotic and cultural education, as well as forced labour.Reports detail closures and destruction of Uyghur religious sites, including mosques and shrines important to that community’s religious, ethnic, and cultural identity. There are also reports of mass arbitrary forced separation of children from their parents by authorities. There are credible reports of forced sterilization, systematic rape and gender-based sexual violence. Throughout the region, Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities also face repressive physical and digital surveillance, which includes severe restrictions on movement, the forced collection of biometric data, and coercive police surveillance. The actions by the Chinese government are in violation of international human rights obligations and are inconsistent with the United Nations’ Global Counter Terrorism Strategy.As a result, on December 8, 2021, the Prime Minister confirmed that Canada, in line with its closest allies, would not be sending diplomatic representatives to Beijing for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Canada has worked closely with allies in the preceding months on this important issue, and remains deeply disturbed by the troubling reports of human rights violations in China.Canada has made several statements on the human rights situation in China at the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, including specific statements regarding Uyghurs in the XUAR (March 2018, September 2018, March 2019; September 2020; February 2021). Canada also made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of China’s Universal Periodic Review at the HRC in November 2018. Canada called on China to release Uyghurs and other Muslims who have been detained arbitrarily and without due process because of their ethnicity or religions, and to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Muslims, Christians, Tibetan Buddhists and Falun Gong.Canada also co-sponsored side events addressing human rights in Xinjiang on the margins of the HRC’s 40th session in Geneva (March 2019) and on the margins of the UN General Assembly 74th session in New York (September 2019). At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 6, 2020), Canada co-signed, along with 38 other countries, a joint statement on the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 21, 2021), Canada co-signed a joint statement on the human rights situation Xinjiang, along with 43 other countries. In June 2020, during the 44th session of the HRC, Canada and 27 other countries signed a joint statement on the human rights situations in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. In June 2021, during the 47th session of the HRC, Canada delivered a joint statement, co-signed with 42 other countries on the human rights situation in Xinjiang. As part of joint communications, Canada and other countries have called on China to allow unfettered access to Xinjiang to the UN and the Office of the High Commission for Human Rights.On January 12, 2021, the Government of Canada announced that it is adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing human rights abuses in the XUAR. This included measures to address forced labour, via the prohibition of imports into Canada of goods made in whole or part with forced labour and a business integrity declaration for Canadian exporters. Global Affairs Canada will continue to work closely with Canadian firms doing business in or with China to help them understand and mitigate the risks of doing business with entities possibly implicated in forced labour.The Trade Commissioner Service has updated its guidance for businesses on the risks of doing business in China, including risks related to human rights abuses. Ensuring companies adhere to responsible business practices is essential to manage social, reputational, legal and economic risks. The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies active abroad, in any market or country, to respect human rights, operate lawfully and conduct their activities in a responsible manner consistent with international standards such as the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights, and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. Among other things, the Government of Canada expects Canadian companies to adopt global best practices with respect to supply chain due diligence in order to eliminate the direct or indirect risk of involvement in any forced labour or other human rights abuses.On March 22, 2021, Canada announced sanctions against 4 officials and 1 entity under the Special Economic Measures (People’s Republic of China) Regulations, based on their participation in gross and systematic human rights violations in the XUAR. The Regulations impose a dealings ban on listed persons, which prohibits any person in Canada and any Canadian outside Canada from undertaking a broad range of financial and business transactions with any of the listed individuals or entities. The individuals listed in the schedule to the regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These measures were taken in coordination with the United States and the United Kingdom, and in solidarity with the European Union. These sanctions underscore Canada’s grave concerns with the ongoing human rights violations occurring in the XUAR, affecting Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities.Canada will continue to call on the People’s Republic of China to fulfill its international human rights obligations and to allow for meaningful, unfettered access to the XUAR so that impartial experts can observe and report on the situation first-hand. Canada will work collaboratively with partners to address the human rights situation in Xinjiang. Canada has the responsibility to work with others in the international community to ensure that allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity are investigated by an independent international body of legal experts.The promotion and protection of human rights are core priorities of Canada’s foreign policy. The Government of Canada will continue to raise its concerns regarding the human rights situation in Xinjiang and all of China, and will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsForeign policyGenocideUyghur
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 25, 2022441-00217441-00217 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABMarch 4, 2022April 25, 2022November 4, 2020Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, a new report published by the Associated Press has revealed that there has been an ongoing campaign of Uyghur birth suppression by the Chinese Communist Party which includes methods such as forced sterilization and abortion; and, Whereas, in addition to the recent news of coordinated Uyghur birth suppression, there is also a body of mounting evidence showing that Uyghurs are being subject to political and anti-religious indoctrination, arbitrary detention, separation of children from families, invasive surveillance, destruction of cultural sites, forced labor, and even forced organ harvesting; moreover, it is estimated that up to three million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities have been detained in what have been described as concentration camps; and, Whereas, evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and, Whereas, Canada cannot remain silent in the face of this ongoing atrocity. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Formally recognize that Uyghurs in China have been and are being subject to genocide. 2. Use the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act ("Magnitsky Act") and sanction those that are responsible for the heinous crimes being committed against the Uyghur people.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and is a priority in the Government of Canada’s engagement with China. The nature and scale of the human rights violations by Chinese authorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), under the pretext of countering extremism, are deeply disturbing. Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities face torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, obligatory patriotic and cultural education, as well as forced labour.Reports detail closures and destruction of Uyghur religious sites, including mosques and shrines important to that community’s religious, ethnic, and cultural identity. There are also reports of mass arbitrary forced separation of children from their parents by authorities. There are credible reports of forced sterilization, systematic rape and gender_based sexual violence. Throughout the region, Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities also face repressive physical and digital surveillance, which includes severe restrictions on movement, the forced collection of biometric data, and coercive police surveillance. The actions by the Chinese government are in violation of international human rights obligations and are inconsistent with the United Nations’ Global Counter Terrorism Strategy.As a result, on December 8, 2021, the Prime Minister confirmed that Canada, in line with its closest allies, would not be sending diplomatic representatives to Beijing for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Canada has worked closely with allies in the preceding months on this important issue, and remains deeply disturbed by the troubling reports of human rights violations in China.Canada has made several statements on the human rights situation in China at the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, including specific statements regarding Uyghurs in the XUAR (March 2018, September 2018, March 2019; September 2020; February 2021). Canada also made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of China’s Universal Periodic Review at the HRC in November 2018. Canada called on China to release Uyghurs and other Muslims who have been detained arbitrarily and without due process because of their ethnicity or religions, and to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Muslims, Christians, Tibetan Buddhists and Falun Gong.Canada also co-sponsored side events addressing human rights in Xinjiang on the margins of the HRC’s 40th session in Geneva (March 2019) and on the margins of the UN General Assembly 74th session in New York (September 2019). At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 6, 2020), Canada co-signed, along with 38 other countries, a joint statement on the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 21, 2021), Canada co-signed a joint statement on the human rights situation Xinjiang, along with 43 other countries. In June 2020, during the 44th session of the HRC, Canada and 27 other countries signed a joint statement on the human rights situations in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. In June 2021, during the 47th session of the HRC, Canada delivered a joint statement, co-signed with 42 other countries on the human rights situation in Xinjiang. As part of joint communications, Canada and other countries have called on China to allow unfettered access to Xinjiang to the UN and the Office of the High Commission for Human Rights.On January 12, 2021, the Government of Canada announced that it is adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing human rights abuses in the XUAR. This included measures to address forced labour, via the prohibition of imports into Canada of goods made in whole or part with forced labour and a business integrity declaration for Canadian exporters. Global Affairs Canada will continue to work closely with Canadian firms doing business in or with China to help them understand and mitigate the risks of doing business with entities possibly implicated in forced labour.The Trade Commissioner Service has updated its guidance for businesses on the risks of doing business in China, including risks related to human rights abuses. Ensuring companies adhere to responsible business practices is essential to manage social, reputational, legal and economic risks. The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies active abroad, in any market or country, to respect human rights, operate lawfully and conduct their activities in a responsible manner consistent with international standards such as the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights, and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. Among other things, the Government of Canada expects Canadian companies to adopt global best practices with respect to supply chain due diligence in order to eliminate the direct or indirect risk of involvement in any forced labour or other human rights abuses.On March 22, 2021, Canada announced sanctions against 4 officials and 1 entity under the Special Economic Measures (People’s Republic of China) Regulations, based on their participation in gross and systematic human rights violations in the XUAR. The Regulations impose a dealings ban on listed persons, which prohibits any person in Canada and any Canadian outside Canada from undertaking a broad range of financial and business transactions with any of the listed individuals or entities. The individuals listed in the schedule to the regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These measures were taken in coordination with the United States and the United Kingdom, and in solidarity with the European Union. These sanctions underscore Canada’s grave concerns with the ongoing human rights violations occurring in the XUAR, affecting Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities.Canada will continue to call on the People’s Republic of China to fulfill its international human rights obligations and to allow for meaningful, unfettered access to the XUAR so that impartial experts can observe and report on the situation first-hand. Canada will work collaboratively with partners to address the human rights situation in Xinjiang. Canada has the responsibility to work with others in the international community to ensure that allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity are investigated by an independent international body of legal experts.The promotion and protection of human rights are core priorities of Canada’s foreign policy. The Government of Canada will continue to raise its concerns regarding the human rights situation in Xinjiang and all of China, and will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsForeign policyGenocideUyghur
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 17, 2022441-00607441-00607 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABJune 16, 2022August 17, 2022November 4, 2020Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, a new report published by the Associated Press has revealed that there has been an ongoing campaign of Uyghur birth suppression by the Chinese Communist Party which includes methods such as forced sterilization and abortion; and, Whereas, in addition to the recent news of coordinated Uyghur birth suppression, there is also a body of mounting evidence showing that Uyghurs are being subject to political and anti-religious indoctrination, arbitrary detention, separation of children from families, invasive surveillance, destruction of cultural sites, forced labor, and even forced organ harvesting; moreover, it is estimated that up to three million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities have been detained in what have been described as concentration camps; and, Whereas, evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and, Whereas, Canada cannot remain silent in the face of this ongoing atrocity. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Formally recognize that Uyghurs in China have been and are being subject to genocide. 2. Use the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act ("Magnitsky Act") and sanction those that are responsible for the heinous crimes being committed against the Uyghur people.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and is a priority in the Government of Canada’s engagement with China. The nature and scale of the human rights violations by Chinese authorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), under the pretext of countering extremism, are deeply disturbing. Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities face torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, obligatory patriotic and cultural education, as well as forced labour.Reports detail closures and destruction of Uyghur religious sites, including mosques and shrines important to that community’s religious, ethnic, and cultural identity. There are also reports of mass arbitrary forced separation of children from their parents by authorities. There are credible reports of forced sterilization, systematic rape and gender-based sexual violence. Throughout the region, Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities also face repressive physical and digital surveillance, which includes severe restrictions on movement, the forced collection of biometric data, and coercive police surveillance. The actions by the Chinese government are in violation of international human rights obligations and are inconsistent with the United Nations’ Global Counter Terrorism Strategy.As a result, on December 8, 2021, the Prime Minister confirmed that Canada, in line with its closest allies, would not be sending diplomatic representatives to Beijing for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Canada has worked closely with allies in the preceding months on this important issue, and remains deeply disturbed by the troubling reports of human rights violations in China.Canada has made several statements on the human rights situation in China at the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, including specific statements regarding Uyghurs in the XUAR (March 2018, September 2018, March 2019; September 2020; February 2021). Canada also made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of China’s Universal Periodic Review at the HRC in November 2018. Canada called on China to release Uyghurs and other Muslims who have been detained arbitrarily and without due process because of their ethnicity or religions, and to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Muslims, Christians, Tibetan Buddhists and Falun Gong.Canada also co-sponsored side events addressing human rights in Xinjiang on the margins of the HRC’s 40th session in Geneva (March 2019) and on the margins of the UN General Assembly 74th session in New York (September 2019). At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 6, 2020), Canada co-signed, along with 38 other countries, a joint statement on the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 21, 2021), Canada co-signed a joint statement on the human rights situation Xinjiang, along with 43 other countries. In June 2020, during the 44th session of the HRC, Canada and 27 other countries signed a joint statement on the human rights situations in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. In June 2021, during the 47th session of the HRC, Canada delivered a joint statement, co-signed with 42 other countries on the human rights situation in Xinjiang. As part of joint communications, Canada and other countries have called on China to allow unfettered access to Xinjiang to the UN and the Office of the High Commission for Human Rights.On January 12, 2021, the Government of Canada announced that it is adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing human rights abuses in the XUAR. This included measures to address forced labour, via the prohibition of imports into Canada of goods made in whole or part with forced labour and a business integrity declaration for Canadian exporters. Global Affairs Canada will continue to work closely with Canadian firms doing business in or with China to help them understand and mitigate the risks of doing business with entities possibly implicated in forced labour.The Trade Commissioner Service has updated its guidance for businesses on the risks of doing business in China, including risks related to human rights abuses. Ensuring companies adhere to responsible business practices is essential to manage social, reputational, legal and economic risks. The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies active abroad, in any market or country, to respect human rights, operate lawfully and conduct their activities in a responsible manner consistent with international standards such as the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights, and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. Among other things, the Government of Canada expects Canadian companies to adopt global best practices with respect to supply chain due diligence in order to eliminate the direct or indirect risk of involvement in any forced labour or other human rights abuses.On March 22, 2021, Canada announced sanctions against 4 officials and 1 entity under the Special Economic Measures (People’s Republic of China) Regulations, based on their participation in gross and systematic human rights violations in the XUAR. The Regulations impose a dealings ban on listed persons, which prohibits any person in Canada and any Canadian outside Canada from undertaking a broad range of financial and business transactions with any of the listed individuals or entities. The individuals listed in the schedule to the regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These measures were taken in coordination with the United States and the United Kingdom, and in solidarity with the European Union. These sanctions underscore Canada’s grave concerns with the ongoing human rights violations occurring in the XUAR, affecting Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities.On April 5, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Minister of Foreign Affairs made clear that Canada will continue to defend and promote the values it has always stood up for, including, human rights and the rule of law. She also reiterated Canada’s concerns with ongoing human rights violations in China, including in Xinjiang.On July 8, 2022, the Minister of Foreign Affairs met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the margins of the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting. She once again reiterated Canada’s concerns with human rights in China.Canada will continue to call on the People’s Republic of China to fulfill its international human rights obligations and to allow for meaningful, unfettered access to the XUAR so that impartial experts can observe and report on the situation first-hand. Canada will work collaboratively with partners to address the human rights situation in Xinjiang. Canada has the responsibility to work with others in the international community to ensure that allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity are investigated by an independent international body of legal experts.The promotion and protection of human rights are core priorities of Canada’s foreign policy. The Government of Canada will continue to raise its concerns regarding the human rights situation in Xinjiang and all of China, and will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsForeign policyGenocideUyghur
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 21, 2022441-00130441-00130 (Foreign affairs)ShelbyKramp-NeumanHastings—Lennox and AddingtonConservativeONFebruary 3, 2022March 21, 2022October 21, 2020Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, a new report published by the Associated Press has revealed that there has been an ongoing campaign of Uyghur birth suppression by the Chinese Communist Party which includes methods such as forced sterilization and abortion; and, Whereas, in addition to the recent news of coordinated Uyghur birth suppression, there is also a body of mounting evidence showing that Uyghurs are being subject to political and anti-religious indoctrination, arbitrary detention, separation of children from families, invasive surveillance, destruction of cultural sites, forced labor, and even forced organ harvesting; moreover, it is estimated that up to three million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities have been detained in what have been described as concentration camps; and, Whereas, evidence now makes clear that the Chinese Government's treatment of the Uyghurs meets most, if not all, of the criteria for genocide as outlined in the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; and, Whereas, Canada cannot remain silent in the face of this ongoing atrocity. Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the House of Commons to take the following actions to address the situation:1. Formally recognize that Uyghurs in China have been and are being subject to genocide. 2. Use the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act ("Magnitsky Act") and sanction those that are responsible for the heinous crimes being committed against the Uyghur people.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and is a priority in the Government of Canada’s engagement with China. The nature and scale of the human rights violations by Chinese authorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), under the pretext of countering extremism, are deeply disturbing. Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities face torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, obligatory patriotic and cultural education, as well as forced labour.Reports detail closures and destruction of Uyghur religious sites, including mosques and shrines important to that community’s religious, ethnic, and cultural identity. There are also reports of mass arbitrary forced separation of children from their parents by authorities. There are credible reports of forced sterilization, systematic rape and gender-based sexual violence. Throughout the region, Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities also face repressive physical and digital surveillance, which includes severe restrictions on movement, the forced collection of biometric data, and coercive police surveillance. The actions by the Chinese government are in violation of international human rights obligations and are inconsistent with the United Nations’ Global Counter Terrorism Strategy.As a result, on December 8, 2021, the Prime Minister confirmed that Canada, in line with its closest allies, would not be sending diplomatic representatives to Beijing for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Canada has worked closely with allies in the preceding months on this important issue, and remains deeply disturbed by the troubling reports of human rights violations in China.Canada has made several statements on the human rights situation in China at the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, including specific statements regarding Uyghurs in the XUAR (March 2018, September 2018, March 2019; September 2020; February 2021). Canada also made public recommendations to China on human rights as part of China’s Universal Periodic Review at the HRC in November 2018. Canada called on China to release Uyghurs and other Muslims who have been detained arbitrarily and without due process because of their ethnicity or religions, and to end the prosecution and persecution on the basis of religion or belief, including for Muslims, Christians, Tibetan Buddhists and Falun Gong.Canada also co-sponsored side events addressing human rights in Xinjiang on the margins of the HRC’s 40th session in Geneva (March 2019) and on the margins of the UN General Assembly 74th session in New York (September 2019). At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 6, 2020), Canada co-signed, along with 38 other countries, a joint statement on the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. At the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee (October 21, 2021), Canada co-signed a joint statement on the human rights situation Xinjiang, along with 43 other countries. In June 2020, during the 44th session of the HRC, Canada and 27 other countries signed a joint statement on the human rights situations in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. In June 2021, during the 47th session of the HRC, Canada delivered a joint statement, co-signed with 42 other countries on the human rights situation in Xinjiang. As part of joint communications, Canada and other countries have called on China to allow unfettered access to Xinjiang to the UN and the Office of the High Commission for Human Rights.On January 12, 2021, the Government of Canada announced that it is adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing human rights abuses in the XUAR. This included measures to address forced labour, via the prohibition of imports into Canada of goods made in whole or part with forced labour and a business integrity declaration for Canadian exporters. Global Affairs Canada will continue to work closely with Canadian firms doing business in or with China to help them understand and mitigate the risks of doing business with entities possibly implicated in forced labour.The Trade Commissioner Service has updated its guidance for businesses on the risks of doing business in China, including risks related to human rights abuses. Ensuring companies adhere to responsible business practices is essential to manage social, reputational, legal and economic risks. The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies active abroad, in any market or country, to respect human rights, operate lawfully and conduct their activities in a responsible manner consistent with international standards such as the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights, and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. Among other things, the Government of Canada expects Canadian companies to adopt global best practices with respect to supply chain due diligence in order to eliminate the direct or indirect risk of involvement in any forced labour or other human rights abuses.On March 22, 2021, Canada announced sanctions against 4 officials and 1 entity under the Special Economic Measures (People’s Republic of China) Regulations, based on their participation in gross and systematic human rights violations in the XUAR. The Regulations impose a dealings ban on listed persons, which prohibits any person in Canada and any Canadian outside Canada from undertaking a broad range of financial and business transactions with any of the listed individuals or entities. The individuals listed in the schedule to the regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These measures were taken in coordination with the United States and the United Kingdom, and in solidarity with the European Union. These sanctions underscore Canada’s grave concerns with the ongoing human rights violations occurring in the XUAR, affecting Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities.Canada will continue to call on the People’s Republic of China to fulfill its international human rights obligations and to allow for meaningful, unfettered access to the XUAR so that impartial experts can observe and report on the situation first-hand. Canada will work collaboratively with partners to address the human rights situation in Xinjiang. Canada has the responsibility to work with others in the international community to ensure that allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity are investigated by an independent international body of legal experts.The promotion and protection of human rights are core priorities of Canada’s foreign policy. The Government of Canada will continue to raise its concerns regarding the human rights situation in Xinjiang and all of China, and will continue to call on China to live up to its international obligations.
ChinaEconomic sanctionsForeign policyGenocideUyghur
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00034441-00034 (Foreign affairs)GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanConservativeABDecember 6, 2021January 31, 2022April 19, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, Ethiopia has experienced alarming bouts of unrest and violence in the last year.Whereas, conflict has engulfed the Tigray region of Ethiopia leading to egregious human rights abuses and a humanitarian crisis.Whereas, humanitarian actors and independent journalists and researchers have almost no access to the effected regions.Whereas, Ethiopian and Eritrean federal armed forces, forces affiliated with the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF), and Ethiopian regional and militia forces, have all taken part in the conflict.Whereas, credible reports indicate that war crimes, such as the indiscriminate shelling of civilian towns and villages, extrajudicial killings, at least one largescale massacre, looting, and sexual violence, have all occurred in Tigray.Whereas, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with increasing reports of rising hunger, limited access to food and other life-saving assistance, and a collapsed healthcare system in the Tigray region.Whereas, Ethiopia is one of the largest recipients of Canada's international assistance.Whereas, elections are scheduled to take place in Ethiopia later this year.Therefore we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to take the following actions:1. Immediately call for an end to violence and for restraint from all sides/parties involved in the Tigray conflict.2. Immediately call for humanitarian access to the region and for independent monitoring to be allowed.3. Immediately call for international investigations into credible reports of war crimes and gross violations of human rights law.4. Engage directly and consistently with the Ethiopian and Eritrean Governments on this conflict.5. Promote short, medium, and long-term elections monitoring in Ethiopia.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights, democracy, and fundamental freedoms, as well as the protection of civilians, are all integral elements of Canada’s foreign policy. Canada is committed to standing up for human rights and to striving for a world where the well-being, rights, and freedoms of all people are protected and respected.Canada, along with its G7 partners and other members of the international community, is deeply concerned by the serious human rights violations and abuses as well as violations of international humanitarian law. These violations, including the widespread evidence of sexual violence, have been and continue to be committed by all parties across a number of regions in Ethiopia, including Afar, Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray. Canada unreservedly condemns the killing of civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, indiscriminate shelling, and the forced displacement of civilians.Canada has taken a stand at the United Nations, including at the Human Rights Council, to bring attention to these issues. In 2021, Canada supported two resolutions at the Human Rights Council which called for an end to human rights violations in Ethiopia. Canada was also a major donor, with a contribution of $600,000, to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission joint investigation into the allegations of human rights violations and abuses, and of serious violations of international humanitarian law committed by parties to the conflict. On November 5, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of International Development issued a joint statement on the release of the investigation report by the United Nations and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and expressed Canada’s concerns on the findings. Canada acknowledges the Government of Ethiopia’s decision to create an Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Accountability and Redress of Violations Committed to oversee redress and accountability measures in response to human rights violations committed in the conflict in northern Ethiopia.Canada is also deeply concerned by the alarming trend of mass detentions of individuals from certain groups, such as ethnic Tigrayans, and urged the Government of Ethiopia to allow unhindered and timely access to detainees. Canada expressed these concerns on December 6 through a joint statement with Australia, Denmark, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The statement on detentions in Ethiopia highlighted that the Ethiopian government’s announcement of a state of emergency on November 2 is no justification for the mass detention of individuals from certain ethnic groups.Canada is profoundly alarmed by the devastating impact on the lives and livelihoods of the millions of people affected by the conflict in northern Ethiopia. Canada continues to urge all parties to the conflict to support immediate, unhindered humanitarian access as well as the need for an immediate and sustained ceasefire. Canada is working closely with its humanitarian partners, including United Nations agencies, the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement, and non-governmental organizations, to help address the immediate life saving needs of affected populations, both within Ethiopia and those who have sought safety as refugees in Sudan. In 2021, Canada provided more than $43 million to address humanitarian needs in Ethiopia, including those arising from the conflict.The government is working closely with partners to support a peaceful resolution to the conflict. On November 8, 2021, the Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with President Faki of the African Union Commission to discuss the rapidly deteriorating situation in Ethiopia, in particular, the intensification of the armed conflict, the humanitarian crisis, and human rights abuses as well as to reinforce the key partnership between Canada and the African Union. The Minister of Foreign Affairs also spoke on November 25, with Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Demeke Mekonnen to convey Canada’s concerns regarding the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation and military escalation in the country, and to reiterate Canada’s call for an immediate ceasefire. She has discussed the crisis on several occasions with G7 counterparts and others about this crisis, including with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken.Since November 2021, the Prime Minister has spoken a number of times with Prime Minister Abiy about the developments in northern Ethiopia and the importance of working toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict, including through an immediate cessation of hostilities and inclusive dialogue among all parties. The Prime Minister has reiterated the need to ensure humanitarian access and assistance for those affected by the conflict and has raised Canada’s concerns about human rights. The Prime Minister also held calls regarding the situation in Ethiopia with UN Secretary-General Guterres and with African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa Obasanjo to reinforce Canada’s commitment to supporting efforts to end the conflict peacefully.Canada has repeatedly called for the establishment of a clear inclusive political process that is acceptable to all Ethiopians, including the citizens of Tigray, and which leads to a wider national reconciliation process. On June 25, 2021, Canada, with like-minded partners, issued a statement on the Ethiopian elections, calling on the Government of Ethiopia and all stakeholders to establish a broad-based national dialogue process and to commit to peaceful solutions. Canada funds programs that support the strengthening of Ethiopia’s democratic institutions, with a special focus on ensuring the participation of women, youth, and ethnic groups in the electoral process. In February 2020, the Government of Canada contributed $1 million to help strengthen the capacity of the National Election Board of Ethiopia to conduct credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections. Canada will continue to support democratic and electoral reforms that are beneficial to and inclusive of all Ethiopian citizens. Canada does not provide budgetary support or other development assistance directly to the Government of Ethiopia.Canada is committed to supporting Ethiopians in achieving progress toward their political, social, and economic development goals. Canada remains actively engaged in seeking a durable solution to the political and humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia.
Civil and human rightsElectoral observation missionsEthiopiaForeign policyHumanitarian assistance and workers
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01837441-01837 (Business and trade)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABOctober 26, 2023December 11, 2023June 4, 2021Petition to the House of CommonsWe, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas, the current tax regime greatly favours selling a small business or farm to a family member then a stranger;Whereas, continued family ownership and long-term business stability are weakened by the current taxation rules;Whereas, small businesses are the backbone of our economy and communities;Whereas, the average age of a Canadian farmer in 2016 was 55;Whereas, the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) estimates that $500 billion in farm assets are set to change hands within the next 10 years;Whereas, farmers and small business owners are unfairly penalized by the tax system if they want to sell their business and assets to a family member.Therefore we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Support and quickly pass Bill C-208, (transfer of small businesses or family farm or fishing corporation), which will ensure that farms and businesses can be transferred to the next generation without having to worry about unfair taxes; and 2. Ensure that family owned small businesses and farms are encouraged, supported and red tape is eliminated.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandBill C-208 (An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (transfer of small business or family farm or fishing corporation), 43rd Parliament, 2nd session) received royal assent on June 29, 2021. In Budget 2023, the government announced additional proposed measures to support intergenerational business transfers (see page 16 of Budget 2023 Tax Measures: Supplementary Information under the heading “Strengthening the Intergenerational Business Transfer Framework”).
Family farmsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesTransfer of property
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 16, 2022441-00328441-00328 (Health)ArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservativeABApril 1, 2022May 16, 2022June 4, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWE, THE UNDERSIGNED RESIDENTS OF CANADA, draw the attention of the House to the following:WHEREAS sexually explicit material — including demeaning material and material depicting sexual violence — can be easily accessed on the Internet by young persons; Whereas a significant proportion of the sexually explicit material accessed online is made available on the Internet for commercial purposes and is not protected by any effective age-verification method; WHEREAS the consumption of sexually explicit material by young persons is associated with a range of serious harms, including the development of pornography addiction, the reinforcement of gender stereotypes and the development of attitudes favourable to harassment and violence — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — particularly against women; WHEREAS Parliament recognizes that the harmful effect of the increasing accessibility of sexually explicit material online for young persons is an important public health and public safety concern; WHEREAS online age-verification technology is increasingly sophisticated and can now effectively ascertain the age of users without breaching their privacy rights; WHEREAS anyone making sexually explicit material available on the Internet for commercial purposes has a responsibility to ensure that it is not accessed by young persons; WHEREAS online age-verification was the primary recommendation made by stakeholders during a 2017 study by the Standing Committee on Health.THEREFORE your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to adopt Bill S-203, Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act.
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Chris BittleThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding protecting young persons online – a very important issue. The Government is committed to making the Internet a safer and more inclusive place for Canadians. As you know, the Minister of Canadian Heritage has been mandated to work with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada to develop and introduce legislation as soon as possible to combat serious forms of harmful online content, including child sexual exploitation content and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.The Government is committed to getting this right. From July 29 to September 25, 2021, the Government of Canada held a public consultation on a proposed legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The Government subsequently released a report titled ‘The Government’s Proposed Approach to Address Harmful Content Online’ on February 3, 2022, outlining the key takeaways from the consultation. As a next step following the release of the report, on March 30, 2022, the Government announced the creation of an expert advisory group to generate advice on a revised legislative and regulatory framework for harmful content online. The advisory group’s objective is to provide advice to support the Government in developing legislation on online safety. The group’s discussions include topics raised by the petitioners, including perspectives on child protections online, child sexual exploitation, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.  Engagement with the expert group is done in an open and transparent manner, so that all interested parties can follow along. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/harmful-online-content.htmlAll Canadians should be able to express themselves online without being subject to hateful or threatening attacks. The Government will take some time to further engage with experts, stakeholders and interested parties to develop an effective legislative and regulatory framework to confront harmful content online.
InternetLegal agePornographyYoung people