Debate on Medical Assistance in Dying (Bill C-14)

Speaking on Medical Assistance in Dying (Bill C-14) on behalf of Cloverdale - Langley City - May 2, 2016

My statement on Medical Assistance in Dying (Bill C-14)

"Mr. Speaker,

I rise in the House today in support of Bill C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendements to other Acts, also known as Medical Assistance in Dying or MAID. In January, I was appointed to the Special Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted Dying and I was excited for the opportunity to be a part of the change that many Canadians have been waiting for.

Over the span of a couple of months, my fellow committee members and I spent a lot of time working to understand the complex issue of Medical Assistance in Dying. We discussed, we debated, and we even disagreed on a few issues, but in the end, we drafted a report that I felt was the best possible solution for this complex social and legal issue.

Drafting any legislation can be difficult, but it becomes especially difficult when the title includes “death or dying”. It is a topic that most of us are sensitive towards, and many have difficulty confronting.

Within the Special Joint Committee, we dealt head on with a number of difficult issues, and were immersed in them for 6 weeks. We reviewed reports by the Provincial-Territorial Expert Advisory Group on Physician-Assisted Dying, Healthcare regulatory bodies throughout Canada, and the federal External Panel on Options for a Legislative Response to Carter v. Canada, to name a few.

We had the challenging task of grappling with a few major issues touched on by Bill C-14, which included the availability of Medical Assistance in Dying for mature minors, patients with mental illness, advance consent, conscientious objection and inevitably, ensuring that adequate safeguards were in place to protect the vulnerable.

On February 25th, the Special Joint Committee reported back to Parliament, where the Ministers of Justice and Health took the report into consideration, and began drafting Bill C-14, which is what I am here to discuss today.

Bill C-14 reflects a number of recommendations made by the Special Joint Committee, which include:

1. allowing both Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide

2. being permanent residents of Canada, so as not to encourage, what some have coined as, “suicide or death tourism”

3. requiring a written request for medical assistance in dying

4. requiring 2 witnesses during the time of request

5. requiring confirmation from 2 doctors or nurse practitioners that the person making the request meets all of the criteria for MAID; and

6. requiring a mandatory statutory review

The key message I have taken from this very difficult discussion that I was part of, and that Canadians are now joining, is that this has to be a patient-centered discussion. I encourage all parliamentarians to set aside personal values and beliefs and focus on what is in the best interest of patients. Medical assistance in dying is, and should only be, about the patient.

Upon reflection of our committee work, I now realize that the committee managed to develop a higher level of comfort with this difficult topic than is held by most Canadians at this point in the public discourse on MAID. So I am glad to see that the Government took the overarching perspective of Canadians into consideration and is willing to use this legislation as a stepping stone for further studies and future re-visitation.

In the past few months I have hosted and co-hosted medical assistance in dying townhalls. I have spoken directly to my constituents. I have listened to the concerns of my constituents and of many Canadians around the country, and just last week, there was a demonstration for Bill C-14 held at my Constituency Office. I’ve heard the positive, the negative, the concerns, and the support, and although I fully support this legislation, I believe there are a few voids that have yet to be filled.

Firstly, during the demonstration last week, an important criteria, or better yet lack of criteria, of the bill was brought into question. How does one maintain safeguards when dealing with non-medical personnel? Bill C-14 ensures protections are met for non-medical personnel who participate in Medical Assistance in Dying, including those who aid a person, at that person’s explicit request, to self-administer a substance prescribed as part of the provision of MAID, by amending sections 241 of the Criminal Code, and introducing section 227 to allow MAID if the appropriate conditions are met.

But, what is being done to ensure that non-medical personnel are in fact following the guidelines required by MAID? For instance, right before the time of administering the lethal prescription, a patient must be asked whether they would like to continue with MAID, but how do we know that these independent individuals are in fact asking this question, among others? How do we know that the individual will not take advantage of the situation or the vulnerable position that the patient is in? These are questions my constituents would like to see addressed.

Secondly, I recently spoke to someone who was heavily involved in the Carter V. Canada case, who was wondering whether Kay Carter herself would have qualified for Medical Assistance in Dying given the legislation being discussed today. I’ve read articles stating that she would have been, because she met the criteria for eligibility. But would health-care practitioners consistently agree that Kay Carter would indeed have qualified under this legislation?

The part that I am finding difficult to grasp, for Kay Carter, and many others, is the ambiguity of the criterion for imminent death. How do we know that individuals will not be turned away from the service of MAID, because of the vague nature of this criterion. Who is responsible for deciding the criteria for imminent death? Will there be inconsistencies in the definition of imminent death? How will we, as society, address these?

Lastly, the hard timeline between the date of request and the day on which medical assistance in dying would be provided was yet another point of concern. Many constituents have expressed concerns that this may lead to the hastening of death, because the timeline was simply too short. The Special Joint Committee had recommended a flexible waiting period, which would depend on the nature of the illness, as opposed to just an “imminent death.” It would be suggested that imminence and competence not be the only factors in determining the timeline, but much rather “the rapidity of progression and nature of the patient’s medical condition” be used when determining the reflection period.

These are a few pieces of the proposed legislation that my constituents and I feel need to be clarified and tightened before the final legislation is created for June 6, 2016.

However, I also want to acknowledge that the legislation has done a great job of addressing a number of concerns that have been conveyed by my constituents and many others. For instance, the first misconception that I would like to clear up is that Bill C-14 does not address the conscientious objections of medical personnel. It does.

There is nothing in the proposed legislation that would compel a healthcare provider to provide medical assistance in dying or refer a patient to another medical practitioner. Balancing the rights of medical providers and those of patients is generally a matter of provincial and territorial responsibility and we need to respect that. However, that being said, the federal government has committed to work with provinces and territories to support access to medical assistance in dying, while respecting the personal convictions of health care providers.”

Bill C-14 also “recognizes the autonomy of persons who have a grievous and irremediable medical condition that causes them enduring and intolerable suffering and who wish to seek medical assistance in dying,” while recognizing the importance of protecting the vulnerable and ensuring adequate safeguards are in place.

In addition to the Government’s commitment on medical assistance in dying, as suggested in Bill C-14, the government is committed to improving end of life-care services; “The Government of Canada has made a commitment to develop non-legislative measures that would support the improvement of a full range of options for end-of-life care.” It has also committed to providing $3 billion over the next 4 years to improve home care, which includes palliative care. While this may not be enough to cover the deficiencies across the country, it is definitely the beginning of a long-term approach to ensuring access to palliative care for increased numbers of Canadians.

Over the past 4 months I have encountered a wide variety of perspectives about this complex and difficult issue. Some have been extremely restrictive, while others have been extremely permissive. Some believe that the legislation goes too far, while others believe it does not go far enough.

I believe that Bill C-14 is an important first step in Canada. It is a cautious, even conservative piece of legislation but it provides a necessary first response to the Carter decision, along with a commitment to continue studying the effects and revisiting important issues of MAID in the future.

A local paper - The Langley Times did a piece on the demonstration that took place at my Cloverdale-Langley City riding office last week and stated that “Despite the contentious nature of the issue, discussions appear to have been largely respectful and constructive leading up to new federal legislation on [Medical Assistance in Dying].” So to all of my constituents who have emailed, called, attended townhalls, and everyone who has voiced their opinion on Medical Assistance in Dying in a respectful manner, thank you. I appreciate and encourage the feedback. Our government will continue to ask for your input on this and other issues.

Dr. Cindy Forbes, of the Canadian Medical Association has indicated support for Bill C-14, which she made evident in her statement on April 14th, when she said that the “…commitment to exploring mechanisms to support patient access and respect the personal convictions of health care providers will be critical to the pan-Canadian framework on medical assistance in dying. We applaud the federal government for making this commitment.”

Ultimately, when it comes to Bill C-14, I would like to see the voids found within the legislation to be addressed prior to June 6th and I intend on supporting Bill C-14. Like Dr. Forbes, I encourage my colleagues, on both sides of the House, to support the rights of Canadians, and to put patients first, by supporting Bill C-14.

Thank you Mr. Speaker."

Recognizing Cloverdale - Langley City Volunteers

Recognizing Cloverdale - Langley City volunteers in the House of Commons - May 2, 2016

My statement in the House of Commons recognizing Cloverdale - Langley City volunteers

"Mr. Speaker:

I recently met 2 amazing volunteers in Langley City.

The first is Pauline Knight, who turned 100 in February. Pauline volunteers at the Langley Seniors` Resource Centre in Langley City as she has done for 24 years.

The second is Rob Ross. Children have always been important to Mr. Ross. As a retired teacher and principal, along with being a father to his own family, Mr. Ross became a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley 40 years ago. In that time he has made the difference in the lives of an astounding 14 ``littles``, many of whom still play important parts in Rob`s life.

Speaking of volunteers - Mr. Speaker, I invite you, my colleagues and all Canadians to enjoy our community - Cloverdale style. The 70th annual Cloverdale Rodeo - the second largest community rodeo in Canada - and 128th Country Fair, run from May 20 – 23. With all the components of a great community celebration supported by countless volunteers, there are activities for all ages and interests.

Thank you."

Proposed Medical Assistance in Dying Legislation

Proposed federal approach respects personal choice while protecting vulnerable persons

April 14, 2016 – Ottawa, Ontario

Medical assistance in dying is a difficult and deeply personal issue for all Canadians. It is important to defend people's choices and freedoms in a way that protects the most vulnerable, and also supports the personal convictions of health care providers.

Today, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Jody Wilson-Raybould, together with the Minister of Health, Jane Philpott, announced that proposed legislation has been introduced that would give dying patients, who are suffering intolerably from a serious medical condition, the choice of a medically-assisted death.

The proposed legislation has been developed following the Supreme Court of Canada's unanimous decision in Carter v. Canada to strike down the criminal laws against physician-assisted dying. It is the result of extensive consultations with individuals, groups and experts, at home and abroad, and takes into account a range of interests, including personal autonomy and safeguards to protect the vulnerable. This is a compassionate approach that considers all these interests.

John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City was appointed to the Special Joint Committee on Physician Assisted Dying. The Committee worked diligently to respond as requested, and on time, by making recommendations that are in the interest of the people of Canada. The Committee’s recommendations were based in part on the thought-provoking submissions the Committee received through more than 20 hours of witness testimony as well as in written briefs.

"I'm pleased that our government tabled this important legislation in the House of Commons today. The Supreme Court of Canada ruled that medical assistance in dying is now legal in Canada. As legislators, we must now move this bill through the legislative process to meet the Court-imposed deadline of June 6. The bill is cautious in its approach to this sensitive topic, which reflects the position that many Canadians have taken on this issue. I will be holding a town hall meeting to provide an update on the legislation that was tabled and invite comment from the residents of Cloverdale - Langley City” said Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City and a member of the Special Joint Committee on Physician Assisted Dying “I encourage the constituents to reach out to me if they have questions or concerns at 604-595-6595 or at john.aldag@parl.gc.ca”

The proposed legislation was developed in line with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. It would ensure a consistent approach to medical assistance in dying across Canada while recognizing the jurisdiction of provinces and territories over the delivery of health care services.

The proposed measures would revise the Criminal Code to exempt health care practitioners who provide, or help to provide, medical assistance in dying, from otherwise applicable criminal offences.

Moving forward, the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Health will appoint one or more independent bodies to study how medical assistance in dying could apply to the issue of advance requests, mature minors, and individuals with mental illnesses.

"Medical assistance in dying is a sensitive, complex issue and many Canadians have deeply-held views on the subject. Recognizing the inherent dignity and equality of all Canadians, we are proposing the choice of a peaceful death for patients with a serious medical condition who are irreversibly declining and suffering intolerably. After the Supreme Court of Canada's (SCC) unanimous decision in Carter, it was no longer a question of whether we would have medical assistance in dying in Canada, but how it would be made available. Based on the current evidence, we believe this is the best approach to ensure that dying patients who are suffering unbearable pain have the choice of a peaceful death and that the vulnerable are protected."

- The Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

"Every Canadian deserves access to timely and high-quality health care, including at the end of life. The Government of Canada is grateful for the work of the Special Joint Committee, and will engage with the provinces and territories to support consistency in the delivery of medical assistance in dying, as well as to develop a pan- Canadian monitoring system to collect and analyze data, monitor trends and publicly report on the new regime. To implement our commitment to support a full range of end-of-life care options, we will continue to work with provinces and territories to improve palliative care as part of discussions on a new Health Accord. We will also explore options to support access to medical assistance in dying, while supporting the personal convictions of health care providers."

- The Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Health

For more information:

Gunraj Gill
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
778-389-6353
john.aldag.a1@parl.gc.ca

Proposed Federal Approach Respects Personal Choice while Protecting Vulnerable Persons

April 14, 2016 - Ottawa, Ontario

Medical assistance in dying is a difficult and deeply personal issue for all Canadians. It is important to defend people's choices and freedoms in a way that protects the most vulnerable, and also supports the personal convictions of health care providers.

Today, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Jody Wilson-Raybould, together with the Minister of Health, Jane Philpott, announced that proposed legislation has been introduced that would give dying patients, who are suffering intolerably from a serious medical condition, the choice of a medically-assisted death.

The proposed legislation has been developed following the Supreme Court of Canada's unanimous decision in Carter v. Canada to strike down the criminal laws against physician-assisted dying. It is the result of extensive consultations with individuals, groups and experts, at home and abroad, and takes into account a range of interests, including personal autonomy and safeguards to protect the vulnerable. This is a compassionate approach that considers all these interests.

John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City was appointed to the Special Joint Committee on Physician Assisted Dying. The Committee worked diligently to respond as requested, and on time, by making recommendations that are in the interest of the people of Canada. The Committee’s recommendations were based in part on the thought-provoking submissions the Committee received through more than 20 hours of witness testimony as well as in written briefs.

“Quote on the specifics of the legislation – i.e eligibility, safeguards etc.”

- John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City and Member of the Special Joint Committee on Physician Assisted Dying

The proposed legislation was developed in line with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. It would ensure a consistent approach to medical assistance in dying across Canada while recognizing the jurisdiction of provinces and territories over the delivery of health care services.

The proposed measures would revise the Criminal Code to exempt health care practitioners who provide, or help to provide, medical assistance in dying, from otherwise applicable criminal offences.

Moving forward, the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Health will appoint one or more independent bodies to study how medical assistance in dying could apply to the issue of advance requests, mature minors, and individuals with mental illnesses.

Quick Facts

"Medical assistance in dying is a sensitive, complex issue and many Canadians have deeply-held views on the subject. Recognizing the inherent dignity and equality of all Canadians, we are proposing the choice of a peaceful death for patients with a serious medical condition who are irreversibly declining and suffering intolerably. After the Supreme Court of Canada's (SCC) unanimous decision in Carter, it was no longer a question of whether we would have medical assistance in dying in Canada, but how it would be made available. Based on the current evidence, we believe this is the best approach to ensure that dying patients who are suffering unbearable pain have the choice of a peaceful death and that the vulnerable are protected."

- The Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

"Every Canadian deserves access to timely and high-quality health care, including at the end of life. The Government of Canada is grateful for the work of the Special Joint Committee, and will engage with the provinces and territories to support consistency in the delivery of medical assistance in dying, as well as to develop a pan-Canadian monitoring system to collect and analyze data, monitor trends and publicly report on the new regime. To implement our commitment to support a full range of end-of-life care options, we will continue to work with provinces and territories to improve palliative care as part of discussions on a new Health Accord. We will also explore options to support access to medical assistance in dying, while supporting the personal convictions of health care providers."

- The Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of HealthFor more information:

For more information:

Gunraj Gill
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
778-389-6353
john.aldag.a1@parl.gc.ca

Cloverdale-Langley City opens Constituency Office

March 31, 2016 – Surrey, BC

John Aldag, Member of Parliament for the new riding of Cloverdale-Langley City hosted an inauguration event today to announce the official opening of his Constituency Office.

The office will be located at Suite 5, 19211 Fraser Highway in Surrey and will be open from 9 am – 6 pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and from 12 pm – 8 pm on Thursdays.

"We’ve been busy serving constituents since October 19 from our cars, in borrowed meeting spaces and at coffee shops and we’re finally ready to welcome the community to our permanent constituency office. We chose to not keep the traditional 9 to 5 office hours because we understand that our constituents come from different backgrounds and have varying schedules so we want to ensure that we are always accessible".

- John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City

Office Address:
Suite 5, 19211 Fraser Highway
Surrey, BC V3S 7C9
P: 604-575-6595
E: John.Aldag@parl.gc.ca

For more information:

Gunraj Gill
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
778-389-6353
john.aldag.a1@parl.gc.ca

Government of Canada Invests in Clean Technology

March 11, 2016 – Victoria, B.C - Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Member of Parliament John Aldag, today celebrated a $1,626,138 investment in local clean technology in the Victoria area.

John Aldag welcomed this news following a national announcement made in Edmonton by the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, of investments totalling over $206 million to support 36 cleantech projects in five provinces across Canada.

The projects are being supported by Government of Canada’s investment in SDTC’s SD Tech Fund and SDTC’s NextGen Biofuels Fund.

SDTC’s mandate is to support Canadian cleantech at a critical point in the innovation spectrum, allowing companies to develop and demonstrate their technologies prior to market entry. The companies behind these projects are using their forward-thinking innovations to drive economic and environmental benefits, to create jobs and help strengthen Canada’s middle class.

“Canadians understand that a strong economy and a clean environment go hand-in-hand. Now is the
time for Canadian companies to capture their share of the emerging global market for clean technology.
From waste management, to biofuels, to greener solutions for the oil and gas industry, the Canadian
companies being supported today are leading the world in intelligent, environmentally responsible and
economically sound solutions across a number of key economic sectors.”

- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development

“British Columbians are well known for our strong connection to a clean environment and are leaders
on environmental issues. Today's announcement supports Syscor Controls and Automation's work
toward the advancement of clean technology in Canada, and continues the innovative environmental
work coming out of British Columbia”

- John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City

Quick facts

• $1,626,138 investment in Syscor Controls & Automation to develop a leak detection sensor cable for pipelines.
• Total value of the project is $4,878,413
• Highly sensitive and easy to install, the technology will enable early and accurate detection of leaks, allowing operators to respond quickly.
• Sustainable Development Technology Canada is an arm’s-length foundation created by the Government of Canada to support projects that develop and demonstrate new technologies to address issues related to climate change, air quality, and clean water and soil.
• SDTC has funded 316 cleantech projects since it was established.
• SDTC invests in Canadian companies that help create quality jobs, drive economic growth, and protect the environment.

Associated links

• https://www.sdtc.ca/en/portfolio/projects/pipeline-leak-detection-technology
• Follow the Minister on Twitter: @MinisterISED

For further information, please contact:
Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca

Debate for More Inclusive Canadian Citizenship (Bill C-6)

Debating in the House of Commons in favour of more inclusive Canadian citizenship - March 10, 2016

"Mr. Speaker,

I rise today in support of Bill C6, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act.

During the time leading up to the election on October 19th I heard many concerns from residents of Cloverdale-Langley City about the changes that the previous government made to the Citizenship Act.

Since this government was elected on October 19th, with part of our election platform being to make changes to the Citizenship Act. I’ve heard from constituents enquiring when these changes will occur. 

This Bill represents an important reminder of this government’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive Canada. It recognizes the contribution that new Canadians make to this great country every single day.

The changes proposed in Bill C6 will provide greater flexibility for applicants trying to meet the requirements for citizenship. It will help immigrants obtain citizenship faster. And it will repeal provisions of the Citizenship Act that allow citizenship to be revoked from citizens who engage in certain acts against the national interest.  

And I can tell you, Mr. Speaker, that citizenship is an issue of critical importance to my constituents in Cloverdale-Langley City, many of whom are immigrants who have achieved citizenship, and are exceedingly proud of their status as Canadians. They are proud of what being a Canadian means for them and their families. 

Mr. Speaker I have heard from recent immigrants about their fears of losing their Canadian citizenship. They saw how the rules of citizenship could be changed by the stroke of the government’s pen. Members of diverse communities were horrified – and terrified – that they could be targeted for deportation by their own government. 

In May 2015, under the previous government’s Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act, legislative changes were created to allow citizenships to be revoked from dual citizens. The legislative changes allowed citizenship to be taken away for certain acts against the national interest of Canada. Convictions of terrorism, high treason, treason, spying offences, or for membership in an organized group engaged in armed conflict with Canada, were grounds for revocation. Citizens felt threatened and under attack by these changes.

I also heard from Canadians who have been Canadians for decades but still hold citizenship from other countries and passed this dual citizenship to their children. They were horrified – and terrified – that not only they, but their children could be targeted for deportation by their own government, under the rules set by the previous government, a Conservative government.

Bill C6 repeals these grounds for deportation. This government believes that the Canadian Justice System is fully capable of administering justice, protecting the public interest, and holding individuals accountable for their actions. 

However, the value, the strength, and the iconic symbolism of Canadian citizenship remains intact under Bill C-6. The bill continues to provide the ability to revoke citizenship when it was wrongfully obtained. False representation, fraud or by knowingly concealing material circumstances remain as grounds for revocation. 

Bill C6 also contains provisions to repeal the current intent to reside requirement for citizenship. The previous government’s legislation required adult applicants to formally declare that they intend to continue to reside in Canada after being granted citizenship. This has created great concern among some new Canadians. They fear that their citizenship could be revoked if they move outside of Canada, regardless of the rationale for moving. In light of today’s global economy, we require flexibility in the movement of our citizens around the globe without the threat of losing the highly desired Canadian citizenship that we all cherish.

This government respects this right to move outside Canada, which is guaranteed under section 6 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and is something that all Canadians should be allowed to do, without fear or repercussion.  

Another proposed change in this Bill is a provision to help immigrants achieve citizenship more quickly. Currently, the Citizenship Act requires applicants to be physically present in Canada for four of the six years immediately prior to applying for citizenship. 

Our government is proposing to reduce this time. Prior to submitting an application for citizenship, an applicant would be required to be physically present for three out of the preceding five years. Essentially, applicants can apply one year sooner than they can now. This offers more flexibility for immigrants who may need to travel outside of Canada for personal or work reasons.  

Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, since the first Citizenship Act of 1947, citizenship applicants have been required to have a reasonable knowledge of English or French, and an understanding of the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. But the previous government’s changes to the Citizenship Act expanded the age range of applicants who must meet the language and knowledge requirements from those aged 18 to 54 to those aged 14 to 64. This added an additional 14 years to the age range affected by this language requirement.

Our government is proposing to reinstate the former age requirement, eliminating a potential barrier to citizenship. For younger applicants, learning English or French and having an adequate knowledge about Canada can be achieved through schooling. For those in the older age group, language skills and information about Canada are offered through a wide range of integration and community services. 

And all applicants between the ages of 18 and 54 would still be required to provide evidence of their ability to understand and converse in English or French. Similarly, they will continue to be required to pass a knowledge test about Canada, which requires applicants to have a firm understanding of the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship, with a slightly lesser focus on the War of 1812 than currently exists.

Mr. Speaker, I heard from immigrants who arrived in the 1970s and 1980s. I heard over and over again that they don’t consider themselves hyphenated Canadians. They consider themselves as Canadians, as do I. They were horrified – and terrified – that they could be targeted for deportation by their own government. This government wants that to change. A Canadian is a Canadian and will always be a Canadian under the changes proposed in this bill.

Mr. Speaker, our government is proposing to make it easier for immigrants to build successful lives in Canada; reunite families; and help strengthen the economic foundation to the benefit of all Canadians. 

Bill C-6 will credit time spent as a non-permanent resident towards the new 3 year physical presence requirement for citizenship, for up to 1 year. This proposed change will allow any person authorized to be in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person to count a day spent in Canada as a half-day towards meeting their physical presence requirement for citizenship. 

Last week I spoke with an immigrant about the anticipated changes to the Citizenship Act. This woman has been in Canada for 4 years – 2 years as a student and 2 years on a work permit. She is committed to Canada and becoming Canadian. She was happy to know that some of her time spent in Canada will count towards her citizenship requirements.

As in the case of this woman, the time credit will encourage skilled individuals to come to Canada to study or work, and benefits groups like protected persons and parents and grandparents on visitors’ visas.

Mr. Speaker, I can also confirm that the changes proposed by Bill C-6 will not compromise the security of Canadians.  In fact, there are several provisions in this Bill that strengthen the fair application of the right to become a Canadian citizen, and provide protection against abuse of the process to do so. 

For instance, the Citizenship Act currently prohibits a person under a probation order, on parole, or incarcerated from being granted citizenship or from counting that time towards meeting the physical presence requirements for citizenship.  However, these current prohibitions do not include conditional sentences served in Canada – that is, sentences served in the community with conditions. As a result, an applicant who is sentenced to a conditional sentence order could conceivably be granted citizenship, or could count that time towards meeting the physical presence requirements for citizenship. 

The amendments in this bill would change that, for both new applications and those still being processed.

Another provision relates to the requirement to maintain the conditions for citizenship until taking the oath, which I might digress, will respect the court’s decision on appropriate attire. 

Under provisions of the previous government’s Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act, applicants were not permitted to take the oath of citizenship if, in between the time the decision to grant citizenship and the time to take the oath – a period that is typically two to three months – they no longer met the requirements for citizenship. 

However, that rule only applies to applications received after June 11, 2015 – when the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act came into force – and not to applications received before that date.  The proposed changes included in our government’s Bill C-6 will require ALL applicants to continue to meet the requirements of citizenship until they take the oath, regardless of when their application was received. 

And, Mr. Speaker, let me provide one last case: at present, citizenship officers do not have the authority to seize fraudulent documents. Bill C-6 will change that. Citizenship officers will have the authority to seize fraudulent documents provided during the administration of the Act, which includes during in-person interviews and hearings. This change enhances the ability for citizenship officers to conduct investigations, and prevents the use of false documents.  

Bill C-6 also protects the integrity of the citizenship application process, The proposed change helps ensure that those who might do harm to Canada cannot secure citizenship through misconduct or deceit.   

In fact, Mr. Speaker, while this government encourages all immigrants to chart a path toward becoming a full and permanent member of Canadian society, we also remains steadfastly committed to protecting the safety and security of Canadians. This government will remain vigilant in countering any and all threats to Canada, its citizens and its interests around the world.

Mr. Speaker, I remind this House that one of the most effective tools for achieving successful integration into Canadian life for new Canadians is by achieving Canadian citizenship. This Bill ensures that any and all who become Canadian citizens are treated equally under the law, whether they were born in Canada, naturalized in Canada or hold a dual citizenship. 

But this bill also embodies the notion that Canadian citizenship is of great value, equally attainable for those who choose to meet its duties and obligations. Citizenship will be beyond the reach of those who would use it for any purpose other than to help build a strong and prosperous Canada for generations to come.    

I believe that Bill C-6 serves as a clear, tangible and powerful reminder that Canadian citizenship is a valued and permanent legacy for those seeking a place to make a difference in the world. It helps improve us all, and makes Canada a better place.

For these reasons, I encourage all members of this House to support Bill C-6, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act.

Thank you."

Media Invitation on Government of Canada Investment in Clean Technology

March 10, 2016 – Victoria, B.C

Members of the media are invited to join John Aldag, MP for Cloverdale-Langley City, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development for an announcement on Friday, March 11, 2016.

Syscor Controls & Automation Inc.
201-60 Bastion Sq.
Victoria, BC
V8W1J2

For further information, please contact:
Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca

Medical Assistance in Dying: A Patient-Centred Approach

February 25, 2016 - Ottawa, Ontario

Cloverdale-Langley City MP John Aldag is a member of The Special Joint Parliamentary Committee on Physician-Assisted Dying (PDAM). The committee tabled its report, Medical Assistance in Dying: A Patient-Centred Approach, in the Senate today and also presented the report in the House of Commons.

In February 2015, the Supreme Court of Canada concluded in Carter v. Canada (Attorney General) that in certain circumstances, the provisions of the Criminal Code that prohibit medical assistance in dying violate the rights of individuals that are protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

On December 11, 2015, the Senate and the House of Commons passed motions to establish a special joint committee whose mandate was to:

Review the report of the External Panel on Options for a Legislative Response to Carter v. Canada and other recent relevant consultation activities and studies, to consult with Canadians, experts and stakeholders, and make recommendations on the framework of a federal response on physician-assisted dying that respects the Constitution, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the priorities of Canadians.

Guided by the Court’s decision, the Committee worked diligently to respond as requested, and on time, by making recommendations that are in the interest of the people of Canada.
Senators and Members of Parliament worked collaboratively and constructively to grapple with serious issues in a thoughtful and reflective manner.

“The work of the Special Joint Committee, of which I was a part, gathered evidence from diverse interests on this important topic. We must now move forward and ensure that the legislation to come respects the rights and views of Canadians and the Carter decision” stated John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City. “I encourage everyone to read the full report and get engaged in the process of crafting a framework on Medical Aid in Dying.”

The Committee’s recommendations are based in part on the thought-provoking submissions the Committee received through more than 20 hours of witness testimony as well as in written briefs. 

The Committee’s deliberations were also informed by all of the Canadian research and consultations that have taken place on this complex and sensitive issue. The Committee commends the work done by the External Panel on Options for a Legislative Response to Carter v. Canada, the Provincial-Territorial Expert Advisory Group on Physician-Assisted Dying, the Canadian Medical Association, and the provincial colleges of physicians of surgeons.

In its report, the Committee makes 21 recommendations, including:

• “That medical assistance in dying be available to individuals with terminal and non-terminal grievous and irremediable medical conditions that cause enduring suffering that is intolerable to the individual in the circumstances of his or her condition”;
• “That the capacity of a person requesting medical assistance in dying to provide informed consent should be assessed using existing medical practices, emphasizing the need to pay particular attention to vulnerabilities in end-of-life circumstances”; “That the permission to use advance requests for medical assistance in dying be allowed any time after one is diagnosed with a condition that is reasonably likely to cause loss of competence or after a diagnosis of a grievous or irremediable condition but before the suffering becomes intolerable”; and
• “That physicians, nurse practitioners and registered nurses working under the direction of a physician to provide medical assistance in dying be exempted from sections 14 and section 241(b) of the Criminal Code.
• Pharmacists and other health care practitioners, who provide services relating to medical assistance in dying, should also be exempted from sections 14 and section 241(b) of the Criminal Code.”

For More Information:

Gunraj Gill
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
778-389-6353
John.Aldag.A1@parl.gc.ca

New Bill will remove Two-Tiered Citizenship

February 25, 2016

Mr. John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City applauds the Government of Canada and the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, John McCallum, who today introduced legislation that will provide greater flexibility for applicants trying to meet the requirements for citizenship, and help immigrants obtain citizenship faster.

With this legislation, changes will be made to the provisions of the Citizenship Act that created two tier citizenship. This will ensure that all Canadians – including dual citizens – are treated equally because we believe that a Canadian is a Canadian is a Canadian.

The amendments will also reduce the time permanent residents must be physically present in Canada before qualifying for citizenship by a full year. The proposed legislation recognizes that immigrants often build an attachment to Canada before becoming permanent residents, and will credit applicants for the time spent in Canada as temporary residents or protected persons.

The proposed legislation will also change the age range of those required to pass a knowledge test and meet French or English language requirements to qualify for citizenship from ages 14-64 back to ages 18-54. These proposed changes support the Government’s goal to help immigrants build successful lives in Canada.

“Canada must remain a country whose greatness is reflected by our diversity. These
changes fulfill the promise in our platform to reduce the barriers and hardships faced by many
hardworking immigrants in Surrey and Langley who are seeking to fully join the Canadian family in citizenship.”

- John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale-Langley City

Quick Facts

• Under the proposed changes, revocation of citizenship could still occur if citizenship was obtained by false representation, by fraud or by knowingly concealing material circumstances.
• The Government plans to repeal the requirement that new citizenship applicants have an intent to reside in Canada after becoming Canadian citizens.
• A series of changes to further enhance program integrity are also proposed.
• Canada is a land of immigrants, made up of over 200 ethnic origins, with thirteen of those ethnic groups having Canadian populations over one million. More than one in five Canadians were born outside Canada. This is our strength and a source of great pride.

For more information:

Gunraj Gill
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
778-389-6353
john.aldag.a1@parl.gc.ca