Canada-US Tariffs
Leader of the opposition, Andrew Scheer (Regina-Qu’Appelle, SK) stated that the Conservatives supported the government’s decision to retaliate to the American tariffs made against Canadian Aluminum and Steel workers, however did not understand why tariffs would only come into effect on July 1st, 2018 while American tariffs came into effect immediately.
Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau (Papineau, QC) responded by stating that before enforcing these tariffs it was important to consult with Canadians to ensure that the government was doing the right thing for Canadians.
US asylum seekers entering Canada
MP Pierre Paul-Hus (Charlesboug – Haute-Saint-Charles, QC) affirmed that there here been mass illegal immigration that is occurring at our borders. He further stated that The Safe Third Party Act has been enforced since 2004 but is no longer suitable for what is occurring in reality. The MP called upon the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship for leadership on this issue.
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration Serge Comier (Acadie – Bathurst, NB), acknowledged that having irregular migrants placed pressure on the provinces in regards to finding accommodation for the asylum seekers. He continued to state that the government was investing $50 million in Quebec, Ontario, and Manitoba, which are the three provinces most affected by accommodation costs.
Israeli illegal settlement expansion
MP Hélène Laverdière (Laurier – Sainte-Marie, QC) brought attention to the fact that the Israeli supreme court approved the demolishment of a Palestinian Bedouin village, Khal al-Ahmar and that they would build illegal settlements thereupon. She stated that several European allies had spoken out against this and asked where Canada’s voice was in regards to this.
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Matt DeCourcey (Fredericton, NB) responded to these questions by stating that the Canadian government was an ally of Israel and a friend of the Palestinians. He continued to say that over successive governments, they have stated that settlements provide for a serious obstacle to peace and that the government will continue to work towards that.