Speech (House debate)

{
    "time": "2008-04-03 10:20:00",
    "attribution": {
        "en": "Mr. Ted Menzies (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance, CPC)",
        "fr": ""
    },
    "content": {
        "en": "<p data-HoCid=\"999828\" data-originallang=\"en\">Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to lead off this second reading debate and speak on behalf of our Conservative government on Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget</a>.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999829\" data-originallang=\"en\">Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> reflects the responsible leadership provided by our Conservative government at home and abroad, leadership that gives Canadians good reason to be confident about the future, despite the economic uncertainty beyond our borders. In fact, we have the strongest fiscal position of any G-7 country.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999830\" data-originallang=\"en\">That position has allowed the government to take important action in support of our long term economic plan entitled, Advantage Canada, a plan that was introduced in 2006 that benefits Canadians today and for the years ahead. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999831\" data-originallang=\"en\">For example, the fall 2007 economic statement took important steps to jump-start the plan by providing broad based tax relief for individuals and business, vitally important measures totalling $60 billion, prudent measures taken at the request of the <a data-HoCid=\"78777\" href=\"/politicians/jim-flaherty/\" title=\"Jim Flaherty\">finance minister</a> and our <a data-HoCid=\"78738\" href=\"/politicians/stephen-harper/\" title=\"Stephen Harper\">Prime Minister</a> in anticipation of impending global economic turbulence. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999832\" data-originallang=\"en\">It is important to recognize the actions taken in the economic statement that have been recognized by a wide range of observers as extremely important in the maintenance of Canada's solid economic fundamentals. Observers, like BMO's economist, Doug Porter, who said:</p>\n<blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999833\" data-originallang=\"en\"> It was brilliantly timed. Just as the economy was running into serious heavy weather we had some serious fiscal stimulus. </p>\n</blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999834\" data-originallang=\"en\">The Conference Board of Canada noted that:</p>\n<blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999835\" data-originallang=\"en\"> The Canadian economy will weather the storm of uncertainty.... </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999836\" data-originallang=\"en\"> ...recent changes, such as tax reductions announced by the federal government...will maintain the momentum. </p>\n</blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999837\" data-originallang=\"en\">A recent <em>Calgary Herald</em> editorial praised the Conservative government for using the economic statement and stated:</p>\n<blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999838\" data-originallang=\"en\"> ...to strengthen consumer demand, notably the one per cent GST reduction.... </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999839\" data-originallang=\"en\"> ...for once a government seems to have been ahead of the curve. </p>\n</blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999840\" data-originallang=\"en\">Additionally, we took further action through the $1 billion community development trust, a program that assists workers and communities experiencing difficulty due to international economic volatility. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999841\" data-originallang=\"en\">Budget 2008 directly builds on that important action. It confirms our commitment to strong fiscal management by reducing the federal debt by $10.2 billion in 2007-08. It reduces taxes to the lowest level measured as a share of the economy since the Diefenbaker government. It invests in the future of Canada.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999842\" data-originallang=\"en\">Budget 2008 will support Canada's economy with a plan that is real and one that is committed to responsible spending. Unlike the reckless Liberal opposition that would plunge Canada into a massive $70 billion deficit, our Conservative government is committed to a balanced budget.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999843\" data-originallang=\"en\">We have also made a commitment to Canadians to reduce taxes and we are proud to say that we are keeping that commitment. We are reducing taxes for all Canadians and we are proud of that.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999844\" data-originallang=\"en\">To date, our Conservative government has taken actions that will provide nearly $200 billion in broad based tax relief and $140 billion of that relief will benefit individuals directly. These are permanent reductions that hard-working Canadians will see each and every time they file their income taxes. Taxes will continue to decline thanks to our government's tax-back guarantee. This represents our commitment to dedicate the effective interest savings from federal debt reduction each year to permanent and sustainable personal income tax reductions.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999845\" data-originallang=\"en\">Moreover, I am privileged to be part of a Conservative government that introduced one of the single most important personal savings vehicles ever introduced, one which the C.D. Howe Institute described as a \u201ctax policy gem\u201d: the tax-free savings account. This groundbreaking, flexible and general purpose account will allow Canadians to watch their savings grow tax free. It is an historical first for Canadians and here is how it works.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999846\" data-originallang=\"en\">First, Canadians can contribute up to $5,000 every year to a registered tax-free savings account, plus carry forward any unused portions to future years.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999847\" data-originallang=\"en\">Second, the investment income, including capital gains earned in the plan, will be exempt from income tax, even when withdrawn.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999848\" data-originallang=\"en\">Third, Canadians can withdraw from the account at any time without restriction. Better yet, there are no restrictions on what they can save for.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999849\" data-originallang=\"en\">Finally, the full amount of withdrawals may be recontributed to their tax-free savings account in the future to ensure no loss in a person's total savings room.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999850\" data-originallang=\"en\">The new tax-free savings account will help Canadians save for whatever is important to them. I would encourage Canadians to visit www.fin.gc.ca to find out more about this innovative new program. There is an on-line calculator that will help them deal with this. This will demonstrate just how Canadians can save by investing in this tax-free savings account.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999851\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Let me share with my colleagues that the savings can be substantial. For example, assuming a modest 5.5% rate of return, a person contributing $200 a month to one of these new accounts for 20 years could enjoy a tax savings of $11,045 compared to saving in an unregistered account.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999852\" data-originallang=\"en\">Of course, not everyone is able to save each and every year. Those who cannot contribute $5,000 in a given year will be able to carry forward their unused contribution room to future years.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999853\" data-originallang=\"en\">Saving can be difficult, especially for some low and modest income earners, which is why an important component of this proposed legislation is that there will be no clawbacks. This means that neither the income nor the capital gains earned in a tax-free savings account, nor the withdrawals from it, will affect eligibility for federal income tested benefits. As a result, the tax-free savings account will be of tremendous benefit to all Canadians.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999854\" data-originallang=\"en\"> The praise for this initiative has been almost universal. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation said:</p>\n<blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999855\" data-originallang=\"en\"> This is an excellent policy proposal. Canada needs to reward people that save because their investments fuel economic growth and job creation. </p>\n</blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999856\" data-originallang=\"en\">The Canadian Federation of Independent Business added that \u201cit was an inspired measure\u201d.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999857\" data-originallang=\"en\">The Canadian Chamber of Commerce heralded the measure, saying it will \u201cencourage savings, a measure which the Chamber has sought for many years\u201d .</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999858\" data-originallang=\"en\">Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> has an important measure to benefit Canada's seniors, measures that build on earlier actions we have taken. Many seniors in Canada are living on a fixed income. This can sometimes make it difficult to make ends meet.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999859\" data-originallang=\"en\">To help those Canadians, our Conservative government has taken action that provides about $5 billion in tax relief each year for seniors and pensioners, including doubling of the pension income amount of $2,000 and increasing the age credit amount by $1,000.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999860\" data-originallang=\"en\">We have also increased the age limit for maturing RPPs and RRSPs and, for the first time ever in Canada, introduced pension income splitting for seniors and pensioners.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999861\" data-originallang=\"en\">We are continuing on that path to supporting seniors in Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> by increasing the guaranteed income supplement exemption to $3,500 from the current maximum of $500. This means that seniors can earn up to $3,500 before having any GIC benefits reduced. This measure will benefit low and modest income seniors who chose to continue working.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999862\" data-originallang=\"en\">The Canadian Association of Retired Persons commends our Conservative government for \u201clistening to many of its recommendations over the years and taking steps in the right direction\u201d.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999863\" data-originallang=\"en\">The Conservative government is also committed to making Canada an even greater place to create and expand a business. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999864\" data-originallang=\"en\">Last fall we set out a long term plan to reduce the federal corporate income tax rate to 15% by 2012. This initiative will give Canada the lowest overall tax rate on new business investment in the G-7 by 2010 and the lowest statutory tax rate in the G-7 by 2012.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999865\" data-originallang=\"en\">As the Canadian Council of Chief Executives declared, and I quote again, \u201cThe federal government clearly has done everything it can to reduce tax rates within the boundaries of prudent fiscal management\u201d.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999866\" data-originallang=\"en\">We are also taking targeted action to assist Canada's manufacturers as they face challenging economic circumstances. For instance, in budget 2007 we brought in a temporary accelerated capital cost allowance. This measure is helping Canadian manufacturers make the investments needed to build modern facilities here at home to take on the world.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999867\" data-originallang=\"en\">Budget 2008 proposes to extend temporary accelerated capital cost allowance treatment for three additional years. This extension will provide the manufacturing and processing sector with an additional $1 billion in tax relief by 2012-13.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999868\" data-originallang=\"en\">Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> contains proposed measures that will provide additional benefits to businesses in Canada. For example, small businesses can face challenges in accessing capital to finance research and development investments. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999869\" data-originallang=\"en\">That is why an enhanced scientific research and experimental development, or SR&amp;ED, with the investment tax credit of 35% will be available to small Canadian controlled private corporations on their first $2 million of qualified expenditures.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999870\" data-originallang=\"en\">During the prebudget consultations many stakeholders noted that access to the enhanced SR&amp;ED investment tax credit is phased out quickly once the taxable capital threshold of $10 million is reached. They suggested that medium-sized businesses should have access to some enhanced benefit. In addition, many suggested that the expenditure limit has not kept pace with technological innovations that have made startup research and development investment more costly.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999871\" data-originallang=\"en\">In response to these concerns, Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> proposes to increase the expenditure limit from $2 million to $3 million and to increase the upper limit for the taxable capital phase-out range from $15 million to $50 million. The upper limit of the taxable income phase-out range will also be increased from $600,000 to $700,000. Increasing these limits will encourage small and medium-sized Canadian controlled private corporations to grow.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999872\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Canadians spoke and this government listened.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999873\" data-originallang=\"en\">Budget 2008 includes new measures to strengthen and ensure the effective implementation of our government's plan to ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for all Canadians.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999874\" data-originallang=\"en\">To that end, Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> proposes to commit $250 million for carbon capture and storage projects. This will allow for harmful emissions to be stored underground rather than released into the atmosphere.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999875\" data-originallang=\"en\">Public transit is one of the keys to achieving a cleaner and healthier environment. That is why our government, under the leadership of this excellent <a data-HoCid=\"105835\" href=\"/politicians/john-baird/\" title=\"John Baird\">environment minister</a> who is here with us today, has made significant investments in public transit infrastructure. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999876\" data-originallang=\"en\">Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> goes even further by proposing an additional $500 million to make further investments in public transit capital infrastructure. These are measures to encourage Canadians to leave their cars at home and assist Canada's municipalities. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999877\" data-originallang=\"en\">The Canadian Urban Transit Association called this support, \u201ca major boost to future access and mobility in Canadian communities\u201d. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities called it, \u201cgood news for cities and communities\u201d.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999878\" data-originallang=\"en\">Canadians want a clean environment in which to live. They also want healthy and safe communities. To help ensure that safety, Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> proposes to build safer communities and put criminals out of business.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999879\" data-originallang=\"en\">Speaking of putting some out of business, I want to take a moment to mention how damaging yesterday's NDP motion would have been had it passed. It would have put legitimate Canadians out of business. We do thank the Liberals for supporting and recognizing that it would have put Canadians out of work, and we do appreciate that support.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999880\" data-originallang=\"en\">Most of all we do appreciate the fact that the Liberals did come and vote last night, but most of all, to support us. I look forward to seeing them in their place when it comes time to vote in favour of Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> as well.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999881\" data-originallang=\"en\">The bill proposes to provide $400 million to hire 2,500 new front line police officers over the next five years. Support recognized an important step in helping \u201caddress the much needed resources for tackling crime\u201d. That was said by the Canadian Police Association, who added that they were also very happy with the commitment that was in budget 2008.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999882\" data-originallang=\"en\">Mr. Speaker, as you are no doubt starting to notice, this is a very comprehensive bill. Time does not permit me to describe all of the details of the measures in Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a>, but I would be remiss if I did not mention certain initiatives in it that would help Canada prepare for the future, our youth.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999883\" data-originallang=\"en\">First, in recognition of the importance of education in our future, the bill proposes a new consolidated Canada student grant program to take effect in the fall of 2009. All federal grants will be integrated into one program, a program which will provide more effective support to more students for more years of study. In doing so, this will assist Canadian families who struggle with the cost of higher education.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999884\" data-originallang=\"en\">Bill <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> proposes an investment of $350 million in 2009-10, rising to $430 million in 2012-13. Additionally, Canadian students and their families also need simple, effective, financial assistance programs. That is why budget 2008 commits $123 million to streamline and modernize the Canada student loans program.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999885\" data-originallang=\"en\">Measures will be put in place to improve service for students in a number of ways, such as: a new service delivery vision that will expand online services; more equitable supports for part time and married students; a new in-study, interest free period for reservists; and an enhanced flexibility for those students experiencing difficulty in debt repayment as well as including those with disabilities.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999886\" data-originallang=\"en\">Canada's students responded enthusiastically to budget 2008. Groups like the College Student Alliance said, \u201cIt showed that the federal government is keeping an eye to the future and our future leaders of tomorrow\u201d, or the Canadian Federation of Students who thanked the government for responding to \u201ca longstanding call by students and their families\u201d, probably a call that has been out there for 13 long years.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999887\" data-originallang=\"en\">In order to ensure a strong and secure future for Canada, our immigration policies need to be closely aligned with our labour market needs. That is why our government is also making important new innovations in immigration, including changing the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. In doing so, we will improve and speed up the application process.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999888\" data-originallang=\"en\">Summing up, this Conservative government has taken care to strengthen Canada's economic fundamentals. The bill is prudent, focused and responsible in order to ensure Canada is well positioned to weather the uncertainty of today's global economy.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999889\" data-originallang=\"en\">The Liberal Party of Canada's continued support for our Conservative government is a clear indication that we are getting the job done. We are on the right track for all Canadians, and on behalf of the government, I thank our Liberal friends for their consistent support of our initiatives, redefining the official opposition, and we congratulate them for that.</p>",
        "fr": "<p data-HoCid=\"999828\" data-originallang=\"en\">Monsieur le Pr\u00e9sident, c'est un honneur pour moi d'amorcer, au nom du gouvernement conservateur, le d\u00e9bat de deuxi\u00e8me lecture sur le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50, Loi portant ex\u00e9cution de certaines dispositions du budget d\u00e9pos\u00e9 au Parlement le 26 f\u00e9vrier 2008 et \u00e9dictant des dispositions visant \u00e0 maintenir le plan financier \u00e9tabli dans ce budget</a>.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999829\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> t\u00e9moigne du leadership responsable que notre gouvernement conservateur exerce tant au pays qu'\u00e0 l'\u00e9tranger, leadership qui donne aux Canadiens de bonnes raisons d'\u00eatre confiants dans l'avenir malgr\u00e9 l'incertitude \u00e9conomique qui plane au-del\u00e0 de nos fronti\u00e8res. En fait, notre situation financi\u00e8re est la plus solide de tous les pays du G7.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999830\" data-originallang=\"en\">Cette situation a permis au gouvernement de prendre d'importantes initiatives dans le cadre de notre plan \u00e9conomique \u00e0 long terme intitul\u00e9 \u00ab Avantage Canada \u00bb, plan qui a \u00e9t\u00e9 pr\u00e9sent\u00e9 en 2006 et qui est avantageux pour les Canadiens, aujourd'hui et dans les ann\u00e9es \u00e0 venir.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999831\" data-originallang=\"en\">Par exemple, l'\u00e9nonc\u00e9 \u00e9conomique de l'automne 2007 annon\u00e7ait d'importantes mesures mettant en oeuvre le plan en offrant des all\u00e9gements fiscaux g\u00e9n\u00e9ralis\u00e9s aux particuliers et aux entreprises. Ces mesures prudentes et d'une importance cruciale, totalisant 60 milliards de dollars, ont \u00e9t\u00e9 prises \u00e0 la demande du <a data-HoCid=\"78777\" href=\"/politicians/jim-flaherty/\" title=\"Jim Flaherty\">ministre des Finances</a> et du <a data-HoCid=\"78738\" href=\"/politicians/stephen-harper/\" title=\"Stephen Harper\">premier ministre</a> anticipant les perturbations \u00e9conomiques mondiales qui s'annoncent. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999832\" data-originallang=\"en\">Il est important de reconna\u00eetre que les mesures pr\u00e9vues dans l'\u00e9nonc\u00e9 \u00e9conomique ont \u00e9t\u00e9 accueillies par de nombreux observateurs comme \u00e9tant extr\u00eamement importantes pour le maintien de la solidit\u00e9 des facteurs \u00e9conomiques fondamentaux du Canada. Des observateurs, comme Doug Porter, \u00e9conomiste de la BMO, qui a dit:</p>\n<blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999833\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Le moment ne pouvait \u00eatre mieux choisi. Juste comme l'\u00e9conomie commen\u00e7ait \u00e0 \u00eatre en difficult\u00e9 [...] on nous annon\u00e7ait des mesures efficaces pour la stimuler. </p>\n</blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999834\" data-originallang=\"en\">Pour sa part, le Conference Board du Canada a dit: </p>\n<blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999835\" data-originallang=\"en\"> L'\u00e9conomie canadienne sortira indemne de l'incertitude [...] </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999836\" data-originallang=\"en\"> [...] de r\u00e9centes annonces, comme celle [...] de r\u00e9ductions d'imp\u00f4t f\u00e9d\u00e9rales, contribueront \u00e0 maintenir cet \u00e9lan. </p>\n</blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999837\" data-originallang=\"en\">Dans un r\u00e9cent \u00e9ditorial du <em>Calgary Herald</em>, on f\u00e9licitait le gouvernement conservateur de son \u00e9nonc\u00e9 \u00e9conomique. On pouvait y lire:</p>\n<blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999838\" data-originallang=\"en\"> [...] pour renforcer la demande de biens de consommation, notamment la r\u00e9duction de la TPS d'un point de pourcentage [...] </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999839\" data-originallang=\"en\"> [...] pour une fois, il semble qu'un gouvernement ait pris les devants. </p>\n</blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999840\" data-originallang=\"en\">De surcro\u00eet, nous avons mis sur pied la fiducie d'un milliard de dollars pour le d\u00e9veloppement communautaire, programme qui viendra en aide aux travailleurs et aux collectivit\u00e9s qui \u00e9prouvent des difficult\u00e9s \u00e0 cause de l'instabilit\u00e9 de l'\u00e9conomie mondiale.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999841\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le budget de 2008 fait fond sur ces mesures importantes. Il confirme notre engagement envers la bonne gestion financi\u00e8re en r\u00e9duisant la dette f\u00e9d\u00e9rale de 10,2 milliards de dollars en 2007-2008. Il r\u00e9duit l'imp\u00f4t \u00e0 son plus faible niveau, en proportion de l'\u00e9conomie, depuis le gouvernement de Diefenbaker. Il investit dans l'avenir du Canada.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999842\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le budget de 2008 appuiera l'\u00e9conomie nationale en proposant des mesures concr\u00e8tes dans le respect des principes des d\u00e9penses responsables. Contrairement \u00e0 l'irresponsable opposition lib\u00e9rale, qui provoquerait un d\u00e9ficit \u00e9norme de 70 milliards de dollars, notre gouvernement conservateur est d\u00e9termin\u00e9 \u00e0 pr\u00e9senter un budget \u00e9quilibr\u00e9.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999843\" data-originallang=\"en\">Nous avons aussi promis aux Canadiens de r\u00e9duire les imp\u00f4ts et c'est avec fiert\u00e9 que nous affirmons avoir respect\u00e9 cette promesse. Nous r\u00e9duisons l'imp\u00f4t de tous les Canadiens, et nous en sommes fiers.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999844\" data-originallang=\"en\">Jusqu'\u00e0 pr\u00e9sent, gr\u00e2ce aux mesures qu'il a pr\u00e9sent\u00e9es, le gouvernement conservateur a accord\u00e9 des r\u00e9ductions d'imp\u00f4t g\u00e9n\u00e9rales de pr\u00e8s de 200 milliards de dollars, dont 140 milliards qui profitent aux particuliers directement. Les Canadiens le constateront chaque fois qu'ils font leur d\u00e9claration d'imp\u00f4ts. Les imp\u00f4ts continueront de diminuer gr\u00e2ce \u00e0 l'all\u00e8gement fiscal garanti de notre gouvernement. Cet all\u00e8gement repr\u00e9sente notre engagement \u00e0 utiliser les int\u00e9r\u00eats \u00e9pargn\u00e9s annuellement gr\u00e2ce \u00e0 la diminution annuelle de la dette f\u00e9d\u00e9rale pour r\u00e9duire l'imp\u00f4t sur le revenu des particuliers de mani\u00e8re permanente et durable.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999845\" data-originallang=\"en\">De surcro\u00eet, j'ai le privil\u00e8ge de faire partie du gouvernement conservateur qui a pr\u00e9sent\u00e9 le m\u00e9canisme d'\u00e9pargne personnel le plus important de l'histoire, que l'Institut C.D. Howe a qualifi\u00e9 de \u00ab bijou de la politique fiscale \u00bb: le compte d'\u00e9pargne libre d'imp\u00f4t. Ce compte r\u00e9volutionnaire, souple et d'usage g\u00e9n\u00e9ral permettra aux Canadiens de faire cro\u00eetre leur \u00e9pargne sans payer d'imp\u00f4t. Ces comptes sont une premi\u00e8re historique, et voici comment ils fonctionnent.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999846\" data-originallang=\"en\">Premi\u00e8rement, les Canadiens pourront verser jusqu'\u00e0 5 000 $ par ann\u00e9e dans un compte enregistr\u00e9 d'\u00e9pargne libre d'imp\u00f4t, et m\u00eame davantage s'ils n'ont pas vers\u00e9 le montant maximum les ann\u00e9es ant\u00e9rieures.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999847\" data-originallang=\"en\">Deuxi\u00e8mement, le revenu de placement de ce r\u00e9gime, y compris les gains en capital, sera libre d'imp\u00f4t, m\u00eame si on le retire du compte.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999848\" data-originallang=\"en\">Troisi\u00e8mement, les Canadiens pourront retirer de l'argent du compte \u00e0 tout moment, sans restriction. Mieux encore, ils pourront utiliser cet argent comme bon leur semble.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999849\" data-originallang=\"en\">Enfin, apr\u00e8s avoir retir\u00e9 de l'argent du compte, ils pourront y remettre plus tard un montant \u00e9gal et ainsi conserver le maximum des cotisations permises.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999850\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le nouveau compte d'\u00e9pargne libre d'imp\u00f4t aidera les Canadiens \u00e0 \u00e9pargner selon leurs objectifs. J'invite les Canadiens \u00e0 visiter le site www.fin.gc.ca pour en apprendre davantage au sujet de ce nouveau programme novateur. Le site comporte une calculatrice qui leur facilitera le travail. On peut y voir comment les Canadiens peuvent \u00e9pargner en investissant dans ce compte d'\u00e9pargne libre d'imp\u00f4t.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999851\" data-originallang=\"en\">Permettez-moi d'expliquer \u00e0 mes coll\u00e8gues \u00e0 quel point les \u00e9conomies peuvent \u00eatre importantes. Par exemple, en supposant un rendement conservateur de 5,5 p. 100, toute personne qui cotise 200 $ par mois durant 20 ans dans l'un de ces nouveaux comptes au lieu de cotiser dans un compte non enregistr\u00e9 pourrait b\u00e9n\u00e9ficier d'une \u00e9conomie d'imp\u00f4t de 11 045 $.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999852\" data-originallang=\"en\">\u00c9videmment, les Canadiens ne sont pas tous en mesure d'\u00e9conomiser chaque ann\u00e9e. Ceux qui ne peuvent cotiser 5 000 $ durant une ann\u00e9e donn\u00e9e pourront reporter leur droit de cotisation inutilis\u00e9 \u00e0 des ann\u00e9es futures.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999853\" data-originallang=\"en\">Il peut \u00eatre difficile d'\u00e9pargner, surtout pour des personnes dont le revenu est faible ou modeste. C'est la raison pour laquelle la mesure l\u00e9gislative propos\u00e9e ne comportera aucune r\u00e9cup\u00e9ration de l'avantage consenti. Autrement dit, ni le revenu, ni les gains en capital d'un compte d'\u00e9pargne libre d'imp\u00f4t, ni les retraits d'un tel compte n'auront d'incidence sur l'admissibilit\u00e9 \u00e0 des prestations f\u00e9d\u00e9rales fond\u00e9es sur le revenu. Par cons\u00e9quent, le compte d'\u00e9pargne libre d'imp\u00f4t sera extr\u00eamement avantageux pour tous les Canadiens.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999854\" data-originallang=\"en\">C'est pratiquement \u00e0 l'unanimit\u00e9 qu'on a acclam\u00e9 cette initiative. Voici ce qu'en a dit la F\u00e9d\u00e9ration canadienne des contribuables:</p>\n<blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999855\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Il s'agit d'une excellente proposition. Le Canada doit r\u00e9compenser les gens qui \u00e9conomisent parce que leurs investissements stimulent la croissance \u00e9conomique et la cr\u00e9ation d'emplois. </p>\n</blockquote><p data-HoCid=\"999856\" data-originallang=\"en\">La F\u00e9d\u00e9ration canadienne de l'entreprise ind\u00e9pendante a pour sa part qualifi\u00e9 la mesure \u00ab d'inspir\u00e9e \u00bb.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999857\" data-originallang=\"en\">Selon la Chambre de commerce du Canada, il s'agit d'une mesure \u00ab qui encourage l'\u00e9pargne, et que la Chambre pr\u00e9conise depuis de nombreuses ann\u00e9es \u00bb.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999858\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> comporte une mesure importante \u00e0 l'avantage des a\u00een\u00e9s, et qui vient donner plus d'ampleur \u00e0 des initiatives que nous avons d\u00e9j\u00e0 prises. Au Canada, de nombreux a\u00een\u00e9s doivent se contenter d'un revenu fixe. Il peut donc parfois leur \u00eatre difficile de joindre les deux bouts.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999859\" data-originallang=\"en\">Pour venir en aide \u00e0 ces Canadiens, le gouvernement conservateur a pris des mesures destin\u00e9es \u00e0 offrir aux a\u00een\u00e9s et aux pensionn\u00e9s des all\u00e9gements fiscaux annuels d'environ 5 milliards de dollars. Il double notamment le montant pour revenu de pension, lequel passe \u00e0 2 000 $, et hausse de 1 000 $ le cr\u00e9dit en raison de l'\u00e2ge.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999860\" data-originallang=\"en\">Nous avons aussi augment\u00e9 l'\u00e2ge limite pour convertir les r\u00e9gimes de pension agr\u00e9\u00e9s et les REER. De plus, pour la premi\u00e8re fois au Canada, les a\u00een\u00e9s et les pensionn\u00e9s peuvent fractionner leur revenu de pension.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999861\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Dans le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a>, dans la foul\u00e9e de nos mesures d'aide aux a\u00een\u00e9s, nous augmentons l\u2019exemption rattach\u00e9e au Suppl\u00e9ment de revenu garanti; le montant maximal actuel de 500 $ passera \u00e0 3 500 $. Ainsi, les a\u00een\u00e9s pourront gagner jusqu'\u00e0 3 500 $ avant de voir leurs prestations du SRG r\u00e9duites. Cette mesure sera avantageuse pour les a\u00een\u00e9s \u00e0 revenu faible ou modeste qui veulent continuer \u00e0 travailler.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999862\" data-originallang=\"en\">L'Association canadienne des individus retrait\u00e9s a f\u00e9licit\u00e9 le gouvernement conservateur d'avoir tenu compte de beaucoup des recommandations qu'elle a faites au fil des ans et d'avoir pris de bonnes mesures.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999863\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le gouvernement conservateur est \u00e9galement r\u00e9solu \u00e0 faire du Canada un endroit encore plus propice \u00e0 la naissance et \u00e0 la croissance d'une entreprise.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999864\" data-originallang=\"en\">L'automne dernier, nous avons \u00e9tabli un plan \u00e0 long terme afin de r\u00e9duire le taux d'imposition f\u00e9d\u00e9ral des soci\u00e9t\u00e9s de sorte qu'il atteigne 15 p. 100 d'ici 2012. Cette initiative fera du Canada, d'ici 2010, le pays du G7 o\u00f9 le taux g\u00e9n\u00e9ral d'imposition des nouveaux investissements des entreprises sera le plus bas et, d'ici 2012, le pays du G7 o\u00f9 le taux de l'imp\u00f4t pr\u00e9vu par la loi sera le moins \u00e9lev\u00e9. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999865\" data-originallang=\"en\">Comme l'a d\u00e9clar\u00e9 r\u00e9cemment le Conseil canadien des chefs d'entreprise \u2014 et je cite: \u00ab Le gouvernement f\u00e9d\u00e9ral a clairement fait tout ce qu\u2019il peut pour r\u00e9duire les taux d\u2019imposition dans les limites d\u2019une gestion fiscale prudente. \u00bb</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999866\" data-originallang=\"en\">Nous prenons aussi des mesures cibl\u00e9es pour aider les fabricants canadiens aux prises avec des difficult\u00e9s \u00e9conomiques. Par exemple, dans le budget de 2007, nous avions propos\u00e9 une d\u00e9duction pour amortissement acc\u00e9l\u00e9r\u00e9 temporaire. Cette mesure aide les fabricants du Canada \u00e0 r\u00e9aliser les investissements n\u00e9cessaires pour construire des installations modernes ici au pays afin qu'ils puissent se lancer \u00e0 la conqu\u00eate du monde.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999867\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le budget de 2008 propose de prolonger cette d\u00e9duction temporaire pendant trois autres ann\u00e9es. Cette prolongation se traduira par un all\u00e9gement fiscal suppl\u00e9mentaire de 1 milliard de dollars d'ici 2012-2013 pour le secteur de la fabrication et de la transformation.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999868\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> contient d'autres mesures avantageuses pour les entreprises canadiennes. Entre autres, les petites entreprises pourront faire face aux difficult\u00e9s en acc\u00e9dant \u00e0 des capitaux pour financer la recherche et le d\u00e9veloppement.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999869\" data-originallang=\"en\">Au titre de notre programme am\u00e9lior\u00e9 de recherche scientifique et de d\u00e9veloppement exp\u00e9rimental, ou RS&amp;DE, les soci\u00e9t\u00e9s priv\u00e9es sous contr\u00f4le canadien peuvent obtenir un cr\u00e9dit d'imp\u00f4t \u00e0 l'investissement de 35 p. 100 pour leurs d\u00e9penses admissibles, jusqu'\u00e0 un maximum de 2 millions de dollars.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999870\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Au cours des consultations pr\u00e9budg\u00e9taires, de nombreux intervenants ont mentionn\u00e9 que la possibilit\u00e9 de se pr\u00e9valoir du cr\u00e9dit d\u2019imp\u00f4t \u00e0 l\u2019investissement pour la recherche scientifique et le d\u00e9veloppement exp\u00e9rimental diminue rapidement, une fois franchie la limite de 10 millions de dollars de capital imposable. Ils ont sugg\u00e9r\u00e9 que les entreprises de taille moyenne aient droit \u00e0 une certaine majoration de l\u2019aide accord\u00e9e. Beaucoup ont \u00e9galement laiss\u00e9 entendre que la limite des d\u00e9penses n\u2019a pas \u00e9volu\u00e9 au m\u00eame rythme que les innovations technologiques, qui rendent maintenant plus co\u00fbteux les investissements initiaux en recherche et d\u00e9veloppement.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999871\" data-originallang=\"en\"> En r\u00e9ponse \u00e0 ces pr\u00e9occupations, le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> propose de porter de 2 millions \u00e0 3 millions de dollars la limite des d\u00e9penses et de faire passer de 15 millions \u00e0 50 millions de dollars le plafond de la fourchette d\u2019\u00e9limination progressive du capital imposable. De plus, le plafond de la fourchette d\u2019\u00e9limination progressive du revenu imposable passera de 600 000 $ \u00e0 700 000 $. L\u2019augmentation de ces limites favorisera la croissance des petites et moyennes soci\u00e9t\u00e9s priv\u00e9es sous contr\u00f4le canadien. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999872\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Les Canadiens ont parl\u00e9 et notre gouvernement les a \u00e9cout\u00e9s.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999873\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Le budget de 2008 inclut de nouvelles mesures pour raffermir et garantir la mise en oeuvre efficace du plan du gouvernement visant \u00e0 assurer un environnement plus propre et plus sain \u00e0 tous les Canadiens.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999874\" data-originallang=\"en\"> \u00c0 cette fin, le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> propose d\u2019investir 250 millions de dollars dans les projets de capture et de stockage du dioxyde de carbone. Cela permettra de stocker sous terre les \u00e9missions nocives plut\u00f4t que de les lib\u00e9rer dans l\u2019atmosph\u00e8re.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999875\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Le transport en commun est une des solutions pour assurer un environnement plus propre et plus sain. C\u2019est pourquoi notre gouvernement, sous la direction de l\u2019excellent <a data-HoCid=\"105835\" href=\"/politicians/john-baird/\" title=\"John Baird\">ministre de l\u2019Environnement</a>, qui est avec nous aujourd\u2019hui, a fait d\u2019importants investissements dans les infrastructures de transport en commun. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999876\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> va plus loin et propose un montant additionnel de 500 millions de dollars pour des investissements en immobilisations dans les infrastructures de transport en commun. Ce sont l\u00e0 des mesures qui vont encourager les Canadiens \u00e0 laisser leur voiture \u00e0 la maison et qui vont aider les municipalit\u00e9s du Canada.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999877\" data-originallang=\"en\"> L\u2019Association canadienne du transport urbain a d\u00e9clar\u00e9 que cette aide allait \u00ab stimuler grandement l\u2019acc\u00e8s et la mobilit\u00e9 dans les collectivit\u00e9s canadiennes \u00bb. La F\u00e9d\u00e9ration canadienne des municipalit\u00e9s a dit que c\u2019\u00e9tait l\u00e0 de \u00ab bonnes nouvelles pour les villes et les collectivit\u00e9s \u00bb.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999878\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Les Canadiens veulent vivre dans un environnement propre. Ils veulent aussi des collectivit\u00e9s vigoureuses et s\u00fbres. Pour garantir cette s\u00e9curit\u00e9, le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> propose de b\u00e2tir des collectivit\u00e9s plus s\u00fbres et de forcer les criminels \u00e0 cesser leurs activit\u00e9s. </p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999879\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Incidemment, je veux prendre un moment pour signaler le tort qu\u2019aurait pu faire la motion propos\u00e9e hier par le NPD, si elle avait \u00e9t\u00e9 adopt\u00e9e. Elle aurait forc\u00e9 d\u2019honn\u00eates Canadiens \u00e0 cesser leurs activit\u00e9s. Nous savons gr\u00e9 aux lib\u00e9raux de leur appui et nous les f\u00e9licitons d\u2019avoir bien vu que la motion risquait de faire perdre leur travail \u00e0 des Canadiens. Nous avons appr\u00e9ci\u00e9 leur appui.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999880\" data-originallang=\"en\"> La plupart d\u2019entre nous appr\u00e9cions le fait que les lib\u00e9raux se soient pr\u00e9sent\u00e9s pour voter hier soir, mais surtout, pour nous appuyer. J\u2019esp\u00e8re bien les voir \u00e0 leurs banquettes quand viendra le temps de voter en faveur du projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a>.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999881\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Le projet de loi propose d\u2019affecter 400 millions de dollars au recrutement de 2 500 nouveaux policiers de premi\u00e8re ligne au cours des cinq prochaines ann\u00e9es. Cette aide est vue comme un pas important pour \u00ab combler le grand manque de ressources pour s\u2019attaquer au crime \u00bb. C\u2019est ce qu\u2019a affirm\u00e9 l\u2019Association canadienne des policiers, qui a dit aussi \u00eatre tr\u00e8s satisfaite de voir cet engagement inscrit dans le budget de 2008.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999882\" data-originallang=\"en\"> Monsieur le Pr\u00e9sident, comme vous le constatez s\u00fbrement, ce projet de loi est exhaustif. Le temps me manque pour parler en d\u00e9tail des mesures pr\u00e9vues dans le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a>, mais je m\u2019en voudrais de passer sous silence certaines initiatives qu\u2019il renferme et qui aideraient les Canadiens \u00e0 se pr\u00e9parer pour l\u2019avenir, qui aideraient nos jeunes.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999883\" data-originallang=\"en\">Premi\u00e8rement, compte tenu de l'importance de l'\u00e9ducation pour notre avenir, le projet de loi propose un nouveau programme int\u00e9gr\u00e9 de subventions aux \u00e9tudiants qui entrera en vigueur \u00e0 l'automne 2009. Toutes les subventions f\u00e9d\u00e9rales seront int\u00e9gr\u00e9es dans un programme qui offrira un meilleur soutien \u00e0 un plus grand nombre d'\u00e9tudiants pendant davantage d'ann\u00e9es d'\u00e9tudes. Ainsi, le programme aidera les familles canadiennes qui doivent faire face \u00e0 la hausse du co\u00fbt des \u00e9tudes postsecondaires.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999884\" data-originallang=\"en\">Le projet de loi <a data-HoCid=\"3354384\" href=\"/bills/39-2/C-50/\" title=\"An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 26, 2008 and to enact provisions to preserve the fiscal plan set out in that budget\">C-50</a> propose un investissement de 350 millions de dollars pour l'exercice 2009-2010 et de 430 millions de dollars pour 2012-2013. De plus, les \u00e9tudiants canadiens et leur famille ont \u00e9galement besoin de programmes d'aide financi\u00e8re simples et efficaces. Voil\u00e0 pourquoi le budget 2008 pr\u00e9voit 123 millions de dollars pour rationaliser et moderniser le Programme canadien de pr\u00eats aux \u00e9tudiants.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999885\" data-originallang=\"en\">Des mesures seront mises en place pour am\u00e9liorer les services aux \u00e9tudiants de diverses fa\u00e7ons, notamment une nouvelle vision de la prestation des services ax\u00e9e sur l'\u00e9largissement des services en ligne; un appui plus \u00e9quitable aux \u00e9tudiants \u00e0 temps partiel et aux \u00e9tudiants mari\u00e9s; une nouvelle p\u00e9riode d\u2019\u00e9tudes libre d\u2019int\u00e9r\u00eat \u00e0 l\u2019intention des r\u00e9servistes ainsi qu\u2019un assouplissement des r\u00e8gles pour les personnes ayant de la difficult\u00e9 \u00e0 rembourser leur dette d'\u00e9tudes et pour les personnes handicap\u00e9es.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999886\" data-originallang=\"en\">Les \u00e9tudiants canadiens ont r\u00e9pondu de fa\u00e7on tr\u00e8s enthousiaste au budget de 2008. Certains groupes ont exprim\u00e9 leur satisfaction. La College Student Alliance a d\u00e9clar\u00e9 que le budget de 2008 \u00ab [...] montre que le gouvernement f\u00e9d\u00e9ral se pr\u00e9occupe de notre avenir et de nos dirigeants de demain [...] \u00bb et la F\u00e9d\u00e9ration canadienne des \u00e9tudiantes et \u00e9tudiants a remerci\u00e9 le gouvernement d'avoir \u00ab [...] r\u00e9pondu \u00e0 l'appel que lui lan\u00e7aient depuis longtemps les \u00e9tudiants et leur famille [...] \u00bb; cet appel a probablement \u00e9t\u00e9 lanc\u00e9 pendant 13 longues ann\u00e9es.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999887\" data-originallang=\"en\">Pour assurer au Canada un avenir solide et s\u00fbr, nos politiques en mati\u00e8re d'immigration doivent \u00eatre \u00e9troitement align\u00e9es sur les besoins du march\u00e9 du travail. Voil\u00e0 pourquoi notre gouvernement fait \u00e9galement des innovations importantes dans le secteur de l'immigration, notamment en modifiant la Loi sur l'immigration et la protection des r\u00e9fugi\u00e9s. Cette modification am\u00e9liorera et acc\u00e9l\u00e9rera le traitement des demandes.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999888\" data-originallang=\"en\">En bref, l'actuel gouvernement conservateur a pris soin de renforcer les facteurs \u00e9conomiques fondamentaux. Le projet de loi se veut prudent, cibl\u00e9 et responsable, pour que le Canada soit en mesure de faire face \u00e0 l'incertitude \u00e9conomique qui pr\u00e9vaut dans le monde \u00e0 l'heure actuelle.</p>\n<p data-HoCid=\"999889\" data-originallang=\"en\">L'appui soutenu du Parti lib\u00e9ral du Canada \u00e0 l'\u00e9gard des mesures prises par le gouvernement conservateur indique clairement que nous obtenons des r\u00e9sultats. Nous sommes sur la bonne voie pour l'ensemble des Canadiens et, au nom du gouvernement, je remercie nos amis lib\u00e9raux d'appuyer constamment nos initiatives; ils red\u00e9finissent le r\u00f4le de l'opposition officielle et nous les en f\u00e9licitons.</p>"
    },
    "url": "/debates/2008/4/3/ted-menzies-1/",
    "politician_url": "/politicians/ted-menzies/",
    "politician_membership_url": "/politicians/memberships/1254/",
    "procedural": false,
    "source_id": "2394052",
    "h1": {
        "en": "Government Orders",
        "fr": ""
    },
    "h2": {
        "en": "Budget Implementation Act, 2008",
        "fr": ""
    },
    "document_url": "/debates/2008/4/3/",
    "related": {
        "document_speeches_url": "/speeches/?document=%2Fdebates%2F2008%2F4%2F3%2F"
    }
}