May 2010 Parliamentary Report

ECONOMY

 

Predictions by the Prime Minister that Canada would emerge from the recession faster and stronger than any other G8 nation have been realized.  Fortunately the Parliamentary Budget Officer's predictions about the deficit have not been realized, and the deficit is much lower than expected.

 

However, unemployment remains unacceptably high and European economic problems are a concern.  The Government continues to steer a prudent course of cost-cutting combined with continued support of unemployment programs such as job-sharing, retraining and youth employment opportunities.

 

AFGHAN DETAINEE DOCUMENTS

 

The Speaker recently directed Parliament to find a way to address both the need for Parliamentary oversight and the need to protect national security and the safety of our soldiers.  At the time of writing, there is optimism that an agreement will be reached.  The alternative would likely be an election, which few Canadians want.

 

MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH INITIATIVE

 

Globally, 24,000 children under age five die every day and 38% of these deaths occur within their first 28 days.  Approximately 1.5 million children die from diarrhea annually.  Our Canadian initiative gives priority to funding adequate nutrition, accessible medical care, including disease prevention and treatment, early HIV diagnosis and treatment, and access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene.  There are more needs than resources.  These are measures where Canadians have recognized expertise.

 

PRIVATE MEMBERS BUSINESS

 

I recently re-introduced Liberal Senator Tommy Banks' Bill regarding the Environmental Sustainability Commission.  It will complete second reading in a few weeks and I expect speedy consideration at Committee.

 

ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE

 

We have begun deliberations on our report on the Oils Sands and Water Resources.  I am working to secure consensus on all recommendations if possible.  Good discussion has occurred.

 

We are completing evidence on the Species at Risk Act and will soon begin drafting our report.

 

Future agenda items include a review of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.

 

JUSTICE COMMITTEE

 

A number of moderate criminal reform bills will pass second reading and arrive at Justice Committee soon.  These include Sebastien's Law (on youth criminal justice), limits to house arrest and a white collar crime bill.

 

P & P OPTICA

 

Recently, I was able to announce an investment of $1.3 million by our Government in this creative Kitchener Centre company.  Their research and development of a point of care blood spectrometer will create dozens of jobs for Kitchener and ultimately reduce health care costs.

 

POVERTY AND VULNERABLE PERSONS

 

In the past several months I have continued my support of the efforts of many grassroots agencies that provide innovative social supports for our community.  These include Nutrition for Learning, the Dream Centre, the Working Centre and Downtown Community Health Centre.  They deserve our support.  I encourage you to offer your help to these and other agencies.  Also, please generously support the Anselma House rebuilding campaign.