News

Update on Bill C-210, An Act to amend the National Anthem Act (gender)

July 5, 2016

Dear friends,

In an earlier post, I reported on the tabling of my Private Member’s bill C-210, An Act to amend the National Anthem Act (gender), to make a small modification to the English lyrics of our national anthem, changing them from “True patriot love in all thy sons command” to “True patriot love in all of us command.” Just two words — “of us” would replace “thy sons.” These two words would make our national anthem more inclusive and pay tribute to all the women who have helped to shape our society. I believe it is important for our national anthem to finally recognize their contribution.

As many of you will recall, I tabled an identical bill during the previous parliament, and it was defeated in a close vote: 144 to 127. This result did not truly reflect the views of Canadians at large. A survey of 5,000 people that I had conducted in 2015 showed tangible support for the new wording. According to the results, 58% of Canadians then agreed with the change. In May 2016, a similar survey indicated that support had risen to 62%, with only 19% opposed.

This year, my Bill C-210 – An Act to amend the National Anthem Act – has received support from MPs from all parties and citizens of all parts of the country. I introduced it on January 27^th and it was placed in the Order of Precedence. I spoke to it again, during Second Reading, on May 6^th but those opposed to it forced further debate on May 31^st. I owe a debt of gratitude to Linda Lapointe, a Liberal colleague, for giving me her Private Member’s Bill slot to allow for this continuation of debate. A vote on June 1^st sent the Bill to the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage.

This committee reported the Bill, unchanged, back to the House on June 3^rd and I must again express my gratitude to Gabriel Ste-Marie, a Bloc Québecois MP, for allowing me his allocated time to conclude debate on Third Reading on June 10^th. The House finally adopted Bill C-120 on June 15^thby a convincing vote of 225 to 74, and it was sent to the Senate for its consideration.

Senator Nancy Ruth introduced the Bill in the Senate the same day for a First Reading. Debate, on Second Reading, took place on June 21^st. There was no consensus to proceed quickly on the matter so debate will resume when Parliament returns in September. Senator Ruth believes the bill has the numbers to ensure passage, provided those opposed do not engage in procedural tactics to cause unwarranted delay.

I look forward to C-210 becoming law in the Fall.

Mauril

Second reading of Bill C-210, An Act to amend the National Anthem Act

May 13, 2016

Dear friends,

It was a pleasure for me to be in the House of Commons on Friday, May 6th to move second reading of Bill C-210, An Act to amend the National Anthem Act.

My bill proposes a simple change in the English version only of our anthem. It proposes that “True patriot love in all thy sons command” become “True patriot love in all of us command”. Changing only two words, “thy sons” to “of us”, gives Canada an inclusive anthem that respects what we were, and what we have become, as a c…ountry.

I strongly believe that Canadians now are ready for an inclusive national anthem.

The objective of Bill C-210 is to honour the contribution and sacrifice of our Canadian women, in addition to those of our men, in our national anthem. It is to underscore that all of us, regardless of our gender or our origins, contribute to our unique country.

Today, I urged all my colleagues of the House of Commons to support my Bill.

I will keep you updated on the next steps.

Mauril

Mauril Bélanger relaunches his bid to render our national anthem inclusive

January 27, 2016

OTTAWA, January 27^th, 2016 – The Honourable Mauril Bélanger, MP for Ottawa-Vanier, introduced today a bill entitled An Act to amend the National Anthem Act (gender). He was seconded by Ms. Leona Alleslev, MP for Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement.

On September 22^nd, 2014, Mr. Bélanger introduced in the House of Commons Bill C-624, An Act to Amend the National Anthem Act (gender). The Bill advocated a simple change in the English lyrics. It proposed that “True patriot love in all thy sons command” become “True patriot love in all of us command”, therefore replacing only two words, “thy sons” with “of us”. This change would have rendered the Anthem gender-neutral. Mauril Bélanger remains committed in proposing this legislative initiative.

Last year, MP Mauril Bélanger commissioned an opinion poll on the matter.

The results, conducted by Mainstreet Technologies, were positive. The questions and answers by more than 5,000 Canadians. The numbers show solid support for this initiative: 58% of Canadians approve this change and only 19% disapprove. The margin of error is 1.35%; 19 times out of 20.

It is in the interests of fair treatment of both genders that MP Bélanger proposed the Bill.

“Although my bill was defeated in the last Parliament, the drive to make “O Canada” more inclusive has been advanced. Members from all parties supported my bill, in what was the first vote on such an initiative in the House of Commons. Re-lauching this legislative initiative is dear to me and to the numerous Canadians who express continued support following last year’s close vote. With my bill, I want to pay tribute to all the women who have worked and fought to build and shape the Canada we know today”, said Mr. Bélanger.

* * *

“O Canada” officially became Canada’s national anthem on July 1^st, 1980, a century after it was first unofficially sung, on June 24^th, 1880. The French version was written in 1880 and has remained unchanged. The English version of “O Canada” was slower to take root. The English lyrics written by Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir in 1908 became the most widely used. It is interesting to note that the phrase “True patriot love thou dost in us command” were in the lyrics. In 1914, the year the Great War broke out, this wording was replaced by “True patriot love in all thy sons command.”

Information:

Office of the Honourable Mauril Bélanger, MP

613-992-4766

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2015 IN REVIEW

January 5, 2016

A look back at 2015 recalls to mind some significant initiatives. The following is an overview of some accomplishments and issues.

* * *

Redevelopment of the old Rockcliffe air base

Redevelopment of the former Rockcliffe Military Base is one of Ottawa’s most anticipated projects. This 125-hectare plot of land is a very significant urban planning opportunity for our region.

It would be useful at this point to review the status of this major project and the exciting opportunity we have to build a new neighbourhood in the heart of our city. In September of this year (2015), the city has decided on the Rockcliffe Community Design Plan, based on the Draft Preferred Plan put forward by the Canada Lands Company (CLC). Lots should be offered to builders in 2016 and the first block of homes should be ready for occupancy in 2017, just in time for Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations!

My vision for developing this vast tract of land has always been driven by the need for balance, viability and sustainability, by ensuring the creation of over 5,000 jobs within the community. One point I have continued to insist upon, year after year, is the importance of setting aside sufficient land for non-residential use to ensure a community that is balanced and sustainable, both environmentally and economically.

The CLC plan strikes a good balance between nature and residential, public and commercial buildings. It shows intended sites for different types of housing – detached houses, townhouses, stacked townhouses and apartment buildings – as well as two schools. Several green areas—parks, green roofs and gardens—have been included.

A New Government

First, I would like to thank the constituents of Ottawa–Vanier for re-electing me as their representative in the House of Commons. For the eight consecutive term, I am proud to be able to continue my work as a Member of Parliament and address issues that are important to the riding as well as Canada.

During the campaign, I had the opportunity to highlight priorities which are important to us all:

– Ensure public servants are treated fairly and respectfully.

– Make sure the Rockcliffe air base redevelopment is driven by the need for balance, viability and sustainability. This is one of Ottawa’s most anticipated projects and a very significant urban planning opportunity.

– Fight for the continuation of door-to-door mail delivery. A more grounded solution than simple elimination of this service is required, which would ensure financial sustainability of Canada Post while making things less complicated for people.

– Fight for more affordable housing and the right for everyone to have a place one can call “home”.

I will continue to act on those priorities during the 42^nd Parliament.

Canadians from coast to coast to coast have chosen a new and positive Liberal government, one with an ambitious vision for the future and a real plan for a strong middle class.

Advocate for Co-operatives

I would like to provide an update on my work as the Liberal Party of Canada’s Advocate for Co-opératives.

I have been Liberal Advocate for Co-operatives from May 2012 to October 2015 and I fought for consistent legal frameworks across the country to offer support for further expansion of the sector and remain committed to supporting the co-operative model as a means of mitigating the adverse effects of growing economic disparity.

My first initiative was a motion to set up a special committee of the House. It was approved unanimously. The result was positive with most of the committee’s recommendations accepted by the government including the transfer of the responsibility from Agriculture to Industry and allowing housing coops to renew mortgages without having to pay outlandish penalties.

My second initiative last year was to establish a multi-party parliamentary co-operatives caucus. The idea has been well received, and several Members of Parliament have joined the All-Party Caucus on Co-operatives and held nine productive meetings over the last two years. These meetings have granted representatives from Canadian co-operatives the opportunity to introduce challenges faced by co-operatives in this country and serve to improve our understanding of the co-operative sector. This information contributes to our discussion of potential policy in an effective manner. In addition, many of my colleagues are becoming sensitized to the co-operative model as its positive economic and social effects in our communities become clear.

Over the last three years, I have visited numerous co-operatives involved in several economic sectors and communities across Canada. This past fall, I participated in the 2nd International Summit of Cooperatives in Quebec City, which highlighted the innovative role co-operatives can play in our nation.

The co-operative model is a proven structure that greatly empowers each member, resulting in a wonderful combination of business success and social responsibility. All this plays an important role in the economy and in our communities.

My fight against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease

On Friday November 27th, I met with highly respected Ottawa neurologist, Dr. Pierre Bourque. After undergoing a series of tests, he has diagnosed me with ALS. It is presently an incurable disease.

Earlier in November, I sent a letter to all Members of Parliament signaling my intention to seek election as Speaker of the House of Commons. Following this, I have had many wonderful and credible people, including colleagues from all parties, lobby on my behalf. My wife Catherine and I are enormously appreciative of all the efforts deployed for my candidacy.

Some of my colleagues were aware that since the last month of the election campaign, I have had difficulty speaking.

Under the doctor’s advice and following the ALS diagnosis, I announced on Monday November 30th my decision to withdraw my candidacy for Speaker of the House of Commons. I also announced that I will be continuing to serve as the proud Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Vanier.

I wish to thank everyone who had encouraged me and supported my candidacy for Speaker. I will be eternally grateful. Thank you to my election team and the voters of Ottawa-Vanier for the privilege of serving them.

As a Member of Parliament, I intend to raise awareness by sharing this journey with my colleagues and the public so that more Canadians will learn and fight to continue research for a cure to ALS. It is in this spirit that we will continue to take each day as it comes.

Honorary Chair of the House of Commons

It is a profound tribute that has been bestowed upon me on December 9^th, 2015 as honourary occupant of the Speaker’s chair in the House of Commons. I am deeply touched by this gesture and thank all of my colleagues from the bottom of my heart.

Receiving such an honour is highly appreciated. I look forward to serving my day in the Speaker’s Chair and give notice to my colleagues the promise of fairness in my behaviour and to respect the House rules.

Committee Work

During the year 2015, I continued to serve as Vice Chair of the Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations. This committee studies and scrutinizes regulations and other statutory instruments established by the government. Although highly technical, this joint committee (composed of MPs and Senators) is very important. In fact, Canadians should be aware that Parliament is delegating increasing amounts of legislative power to the executive through enabling legislation that allows administrative agencies to develop their own rules and regulations. It is for precisely this reason that the Committee annually scrutinizes hundreds of regulations and statutory instruments to ensure that these agencies continue to be accountable. The criteria applied by the Committee concern the legality and procedural aspects of regulations.

Canada–Africa

In the context of my duties as Co-chair of the Canada–Africa Parliamentary Association (CAPA), I participated in a parliamentary delegation to Lesotho and Malawi, from the 19^th to the 23^rdof January. Two months later, from the 16^th to the 20^th of March, I took part in a second parliamentary delegation, this one to Tanzania and Mauritius Island.

The Association’s mission is to encourage exchanges between African and Canadian parliamentarians, to enhance understanding of the challenges facing the African continent, and to propose initiatives to foster cooperation in all areas of undertaking.

Prime Ministers’ Row

I invite you to join a group of citizens as they work to transform Laurier Avenue into a place that celebrates Canada’s past and shapes Canada’s future. A place we hope will come to be known as Prime Ministers’ Row.

Many people have no idea that Ottawa’s Laurier Avenue and surrounding area, from King Edward to Strathcona Park, has been home to 8 Prime Ministers and 7 Fathers of Confederation. This stretch, which once served as a meeting place for our nation’s leaders, has been all but forgotten. But if residents have their way, it will soon be recreated as an interactive street museum and gathering place. It will be a lively urban space where innovative programming encourages the exchange of ideas on our nation’s future.

In essence, with the sesquicentennial fast approaching, Prime Ministers’ Row will offer the literal and figurative meeting point between those who shaped Canada’s first 150 years and those who will shape Canada’s next 150 years.

National Anthem

On September 22, 2014 I tabled in the House of Commons Bill C-624, An Act to Amend the National Anthem Act (gender). The Bill advocated a simple change in the English lyrics. It proposed that “True patriot love in all thy sons command” become “True patriot love in all of us command”, therefore replacing only two words, “thy sons” with “of us”. This change would have rendered the Anthem gender-neutral. With my bill, I wanted to pay tribute to all the women who have worked and fought to build and shape the Canada that we know today. The sole purpose of my bill was to include Canadian women. I wanted to at long last honour their sacrifices and contributions. Although my bill was defeated at second reading in the House of Commons, the drive to make ‘O Canada’ more inclusive has been advanced. That vote represents real progress; but progress that will now have to be built upon in this new Parliament. I remain committed in proposing this legislative initiative. I intend to table my bill when the House of Commons resume in late January 2016 and can expect to initiate the debate on the bill around April.

Representing constituents

In2015,more than 600 peoplesought help from me and my constituency officestaff for individual files related to the federal government, involving in particular immigration,employment insuranceandpensions. I also held monthlycoffee discussions all overthe ridingtomeet with residents informally and discuss issuesoffederal jurisdiction.

Furthermore, in order to stay in touch with a maximum number of residents in Ottawa–Vanier, I continued my involvement in many community events and local initiatives. I am committed to pursuing that tradition of presence and representation.

50th anniversary of the Canadian flag

On February 15, 1965, the red and white maple leaf flag became the official flag of Canada, which means we celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2015. The Canadian flag was adopted by the House of Commons on December 15, 1964, and raised for the first time on February 15, 1965.
In advance of February 15th, 2015, I took it upon myself to add something extra to Flag Day. Some 14,000 posters were distributed in 39 schools in Ottawa-Vanier across all four public school boards and some private institutions.

In taking the poster to students, I attempted to relay the story that is our Flag. I also came to know more myself about the origins and significance of the maple leaf as the symbol of our great country.

* * *

Some files to watch in 2016

Locally, a few files are likely to dominate; namely the redevelopment of the former Rockcliffe Air Base, the advancement of the Prime Minister’s Row project and getting the heavy trucks out of the downtown core by exploring the possibilities of digging a tunnel.

Happy New Year!

The Honourable Mauril Bélanger, MP

Ottawa–Vanier

MP Bélanger’s Drive for Inclusive ‘O Canada’ Advanced

April 30, 2015

OTTAWA, April 29^th, 2015 – Honourable Mauril Bélanger, MP for Ottawa–Vanier, expressed his gratitude this evening to Parliamentary colleagues who, in large number, supported his ultimately unsuccessful bid to amend the English lyrics of our National Anthem.

“Though we have not been successful numerically, the drive to make ‘O Canada’ more inclusive has been advanced,” said Bélanger.

The Bill advocated a simple change in the English lyrics. It proposed that “True patriot love in all thy sons command” become “True patriot love in all of us command”, therefore replacing only two words, “thy sons” with “of us”. This change would have rendered the Anthem gender-neutral.

On hundred and twenty seven (127) Members of Parliament from all parties supported Bélanger’s Private Member’s Bill C-624 in Second Reading, in what was the first vote on such an initiative in the House of Commons. In nine previous attempts to amend the anthem since its official adoption in 1980, there had never been any luck in getting the measure to a vote on the floor of the House. “The vote this evening represents real progress; but progress that will now have to be built upon in the 42^nd Parliament. I remain committed to an inclusive anthem,” said Bélanger.

“I want to also recognize the contributions to this debate by the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.P. for St. Paul’s. Both in this House and elsewhere, Dr. Bennett has been a true champion for ‘All of Us’ and she is to be commended,” said Bélanger.

Information:

Office of the Hon. Mauril Bélanger, M.P.

613-992-4766

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Mauril Bélanger Releases Results of Survey on Inclusive National Anthem

April 16, 2015

OTTAWA, April 16^th, 2015 – On April 27^th, the second hour of debate on Bill C-624, An Act to amend the National Anthem Act (gender) will occur, a second reading vote following on Wednesday April 29^th. The first hour of debate took place on February 23^rd, 2015.

Due to the response of the government via MP Costas Menegakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, who quoted a 2013 polling exercise, MP Mauril Bélanger decided to commission his own opinion poll.

The results of this latest poll, conducted by Mainstreet Technologies, are very positive. The questions and answers by more than 5,000 Canadians are available in PDF format here and here respectively.

The numbers show solid support for this initiative: 58% of Canadians approve this change and only 19% disapprove. The margin of error is 1.35%; 19 times out of 20.

It is worth noting that the only purpose of Bill C-624 is a simple change in the English version of our National Anthem. It proposes that “True patriot love in all thy sons command” becomes “True patriot love in all of us command”; therefore, changing only two words: “thy sons” with “of us”. It is in the interests of fair treatment of both genders that MP Bélanger proposed the Bill. A copy of Bill C-624 is available via the following link: http://www.parl.gc.ca/content/hoc/Bills/412/Private/C-624/C-624_1/C-624_1.PDF.

The first hour of debate can also be accessed here: http://www.parl.gc.ca/HousePublications/Publication.aspx?Language=E&Mode=1&Parl=41&Ses=2&DocId=7850168

“With this level of support consistent across Canada, Parliament should look favorably on reverting to the original version of the English ‘O Canada’. What was once likely changed to increase patriotic sentiment during a time of conflict and war was appropriate then but is no longer reflective of Canadian society today, or representative of over 50% of the Canadian population”, said Mr. Quito Maggi, President of Mainstreet Technologies.

You may also view the poll results by visiting www.singallofus.ca.

Information:

Office of the Honourable Mauril Bélanger, MP

613-992-4766

2014 IN REVIEW

December 24, 2014

Dear constituents,

A look back at 2014 recalls to mind some significant initiatives. The following is an overview of some accomplishments and issues from the past year, as well as what can be expected in 2015.

Redevelopment of the former Rockcliffe air base

Redevelopment of the former Rockcliffe air base is one of the most important projects in Ottawa–Vanier. This 125-hectare site represents an extraordinary opportunity to create a new neighbourhood in the heart of our region. My vision for the development of this huge piece of land has always been driven by considerations of balance, sustainability and durability, but most of all, economic development. In May of this year, the City approved the Community Design Plan that was based on the draft preferred plan proposed by the Canada Lands Company (CLC). The plan was then submitted to the federal government for ministerial approval. Economic viability was considered in the proposed project, as well as measures to create employment in the community and provide residents with access to retail businesses inside and outside the sector. Discussions are also underway with the Montfort Hospital and the National Research Council. I would also point out that during the summer, La Cité announced details of a future collaboration with CLC.

Construction is expected to begin in 2015 on roads, water and sewer, and land should be made available to builders in 2016 and 2017. The first block of homes should be completed and habitable in 2017, just in time for the celebrations of Canada’s 150th anniversary.

Advocate for Co-operatives

I would like to provide an update on my work in 2014 as the Liberal Party of Canada’s Advocate for Co-operatives. I intend to continue to fight for investments in co-operatives and the renewal of the housing subsidy agreements with housing co-operatives. Moreover, I remain committed to supporting the co‑operative model as a means of mitigating the adverse effects of growing economic disparities.

Over the course of the year, I visited several co-operatives involved in various economic sectors and communities in three Canadian provinces: New Brunswick, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan. I also participated in the 2nd International Summit of Cooperatives, which was held in Quebec City. As Advocate, I have done my best to educate members from all parties about the important role of co‑operatives in our society and in our economy. One of my first initiatives this year was to establish a multi‑party parliamentary co‑operatives caucus. My idea was well received, and approximately 20 members from all parties have joined the caucus, which held five productive meetings over the course of the year.

Co-operatives enable their members to gain independence. They also play an important role in the economy and in enriching our communities.

A few legislative highlights

On Tuesday, February 4th, the Conservative Government introduced Bill C-23, which contains the changes it intends to make to the Elections Act. The government stated that its intention was to enhance democracy. The very next day, the government decided to end deliberations on the bill in the House of Commons. I voted against the bill at second reading for the reasons set out above, and also because of the government’s refusal to give the Commissioner of Canada Elections the power to compel testimony from witnesses involved in its investigations – the most important element requested by Elections Canada – and because the Conservative Government did not bother consulting the Chief Electoral Officer. This typifies the Conservative Government’s attitude toward parliamentary democracy. Indeed, it has limited legislative debate 82 times in the 41st Parliament.

Another point to remember is the Conservative Government’s use of “catch-all” budget bills, commonly known as omnibus bills. How can parliamentarians be expected to do their job when they are presented with a bill containing nearly 500 pages, which they must debate and vote on (by a motion to limit debate) in a very short time? This is another insult to democracy.

Committee work

Since the fall of 2013, I have served as Vice Chair of the Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations. This committee studies and scrutinizes regulations and other statutory instruments established by the government. Although highly technical, this joint committee (composed of MPs and Senators) is very important. In fact, Canadians should be aware that Parliament is delegating increasing amounts of legislative power to the executive through enabling legislation that allows administrative agencies to develop their own rules and regulations.

It is for precisely this reason that the Committee annually scrutinizes hundreds of regulations and statutory instruments to ensure that these agencies continue to be accountable. The criteria applied by the Committee concern the legality and procedural aspects of regulations.

Canada–Africa

In the context of my duties as Co-chair of the Canada–Africa Parliamentary Association (CAPA), I participated in a delegation of five parliamentarians (four MPs and one Senator) to Africa, specifically Madagascar and Mozambique between March 15th and 21st. Later in the year, from October 13th to 17th, I also took part in a bilateral mission to Djibouti and Jordan. The Association’s mission is to encourage exchanges between African and Canadian parliamentarians, to enhance understanding of the challenges facing the African continent, and to propose initiatives to foster cooperation in all areas of undertaking.

CAPA had planned a bilateral visit in August to Sierra Leone and Liberia. In view of the Ebola epidemic, however, our trip had to be postponed. The Ebola epidemic in West Africa, now reaching other parts of the world, has infected more than 18,600 people and killed 7,000, including a large number of health professionals working to provide care and to fight against the spread of the virus (as of December 17th, 2014).

Another important issue related to Africa is the kidnapping of more than 200 girls by the Boko Haram terrorist group. I participated in an emergency debate on this tragedy. Nearly seven months have passed since Nigeria asked Canada for help in finding and rescuing the girls. In early December 2014, I asked in the House of Commons for a status report from the government with regard to efforts to rescue these girls before it’s too late, although unfortunately, it may already be. I am hoping with all my heart for a positive outcome to this tragedy.

Monestime Scholarship

There are many talented young people in the Haitian community, but they often have to forego a university education for financial reasons. Launched in 2012, the University of Ottawa’s Haitian scholarship initiative is helping to reverse this trend. I co-organized the event with Gatineau City Councillor Mireille Apollon. The initial goal was to collect funds for a scholarship that would be available to Canadians of Haitian origin enrolled full-time in undergraduate or graduate programs at the University. In December 2014, we reached our financial target of $100,000.

This summer I visited Mattawa, my hometown, with the Ambassador of Haiti, His Excellency, Mr. Frantz Liautaud, in order to raise funds for the scholarship. In 1964, Mattawa became the first municipality in Canada to elect a black mayor, Dr. Saint-Firmin Monestime, a native of Haiti. To honour him, as well as Mattawa, the scholarship was officially named the “Monestime” scholarship. Graduates of two high schools in the village (F.J. McElligott Secondary School and Élisabeth Bruyère Catholic high school) who intend to pursue their education at the University of Ottawa are now also eligible.

National Anthem

On September 22nd, I tabled in the House of Commons Bill C-624, An Act to Amend the National Anthem Act (gender). The bill seeks to replace the words “thy sons” with “of us” in the English version of the national anthem in order to eliminate any gender distinction.

With my bill, I want to pay tribute to all the women who have worked and fought to build and shape the Canada that we know today. The sole purpose of my bill is to include Canadian women. I want to at long last honour their sacrifices and contributions.

The debate on my bill will likely begin in February 2015. I am hoping for a respectful and non-partisan debate.

The events of October 22nd

It would be impossible to provide an overview of 2014 without mentioning the despicable acts of violence that occurred on October 22nd at the National War Memorial and on Parliament Hill.

We were all deeply shocked and saddened by the death of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, shot down in cold blood as he stood in faithful guard in front of our National War Memorial. Such violence against our democratic institutions is abhorrent. I would like to thank the men and women of the various security services, including Sergeant-at-Arms Kevin Vickers, who so courageously risked their lives that day to protect Canadians.

We cannot and will never allow armed criminals to terrorize our country and our democracy, and we will strive to prevent such events from being repeated in the future.

Michaëlle Jean leads the International Organisation of la Francophonie

I would like to highlight the election of the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean on November 30th as the Secretary-General of the International Organisation of la Francophonie (OIF). A native of Haiti, Ms. Jean was Governor General of Canada from 2005 to 2010, and the UNESCO Special Envoy for Haiti following the earthquake of January 12th, 2010. She has been the Chancellor of the University of Ottawa since February 1st, 2012.

With its 57 member states and governments and 23 observer countries, the OIF represents more than 900 million men, women and children who have the French language in common. I am proud to have actively supported her candidacy throughout the year and I wish her a very successful mandate.

Representing constituents

In 2014, some 650 people sought help from me and my constituency office staff for individual files related to the federal government, involving in particular immigration, employment insurance and pensions. I also held monthly coffee klatches all over the riding to meet with residents informally and discuss issues of federal jurisdiction. Furthermore, in order to stay in touch with a maximum number of residents in Ottawa–Vanier, I continued my involvement in many community events and local initiatives. I am committed to pursuing that tradition of presence and representation.

50th anniversary of the Canadian flag

On February 15th, 1965, the red and white maple leaf flag became the official flag of Canada, which means that we will soon be celebrating its 50th anniversary. The Canadian flag was adopted by the House of Commons on December 15th, 1964, and raised for the first time on February 15th, 1965.

Between December 2014 and February 15th, 2015, I plan to distribute an informative and colourful poster depicting the history of our flag to all students in Ottawa–Vanier schools.

Some files to watch in 2015

Locally, a few files are likely to dominate; the development of the former Rockcliffe air base, the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the raising of the Canadian flag, and the federal election expected in the fall.

Happy New Year!

Honourable Mauril Bélanger, M.P.

Ottawa–Vanier

Mauril Bélanger Marks the 50th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Canadian Flag

December 15, 2014

OTTAWA – Today marks the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Canadian Flag by the House of Commons. In the early hours of December 15th, 1964, Members of Parliament concluded a controversial and sometimes acrimonious debate on the commitment made by then Prime Minister Pearson to adopt a distinctly Canadian pennant.

Those in favour of the new flag were 125 Liberals, 6 Progressive Conservatives, 19 Socreds and 13 New Democrats. Opposing the new banner were 73 Progressive Conservatives, 1 Liberal, 3 Socreds and 1 NDP.

In recognition of this anniversary, the Honourable Mauril Bélanger, Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Vanier, rose in the House of Commons last Friday. He reminded Members and indeed all Canadians of the significance of the flag: “Today, everyone loves our flag. It has become a proud symbol of our Canadian identity, our values and our hopes. I encourage all members of the House and all Canadians to discover the history of our flag in all its splendour”, said Mr. Bélanger.

You may find a video of Mr. Bélanger’s statement in the House of Commons via the following link…http://youtu.be/7_3ChbcDI-0.

As part of MP Bélanger’s activities in recognition of the event, constituents are urged to go to www.mauril.ca for further detail on the history of our flag.

Information:
Office of the Honourable Mauril Bélanger, MP
613-992-4766
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Making the National Anthem Inclusive

October 17, 2014

On September 22, I introduced in the House of Commons Bill C-624, An Act to amend the National Anthem Act (gender). The bill would make the English version of the national anthem gender inclusive by replacing the words “thy sons” with “of us.”

I would like to provide a little background to put my bill in context.

“O Canada” officially became Canada’s national anthem on July 1, 1980. The French version was written in the late 1800s and quickly grew in popularity. The English version of “O Canada” was slower to take root and many drafts appeared between 1880 and 1908. The English lyrics written by Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir became the most widely used. It is interesting to note that the phrase “True patriot love thou dost in us command” appears in Weir’s version.

In 1914, the year the Great War broke out, this wording was replaced by “True patriot love in all thy sons command.”

When “O Canada” was proclaimed Canada’s national anthem in 1980, people began remarking on the sexist nature of the English version. Between 1984 and 2011, nine bills were introduced in Parliament to amend the English wording and make it gender neutral.

In 2013, the Restore Our Anthem campaign was launched online to change the English words from “thy sons” to “of us.” This change would require an amendment to the National Anthem Act.

A number of prominent Canadians, including former prime minister Kim Campbell, writer Margaret Atwood, former senator Vivienne Poy and Senator Nancy Ruth, have lent their support to the campaign.

I tabled the bill to remove any mention of gender in the English version of our national anthem. In doing so, I want to pay tribute to all the women who have fought and worked to make Canada into what it is today. I admit that I received some negative comments after tabling the bill. Some people accused me of trying to rewrite history and not respecting the sacrifice of our soldiers. I have repeatedly said that my only goal is to include Canadian women. I want their sacrifice and contribution to be honoured as well.

I have also received positive feedback and support. As I was participating in a radio talk show, a listener called in to say that it was too bad the anthem taught our children that only one gender really counted. She agreed with me that changing the anthem was a matter of inclusiveness.

Another listener said that language is important and people need to feel included, especially when it comes to something as personal and inspiring as the national anthem.

The Ottawa Citizen publicly supported by bill in its editorial “What’s so scary about an inclusive anthem?”

Here is an excerpt from the editorial:

“It’s a little bizarre that so many people consider the anthem’s current lyrics to be sacrosanct when the very line in question is the result of a change to the lyrics.”

In a similar move, Austrian legislators changed their national anthem in 2011, adding the word “daughters” to make the lyrics inclusive. If Austria can do it, why can’t we?

My bill will likely come up for debate in the House of Commons in February 2015. I look forward to a respectful and non-partisan discussion.

In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to send me your comments and feedback.

Chief Electoral Officer on Bill C-23

March 7, 2014

Dear Constituents:

On March 6, the Chief Electoral Officer, Mr. Marc Mayrand, appeared before the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs on Bill C-23, An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to certain Acts.

You will find below a link to access his remarks before the committee: http://www.elections.ca/content.aspx?lang=e&section=med&document=mar0614&dir=spe

Furthermore, please find below a link to the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs’ website were you will be able to access a transcript of the proceedings in a few days: http://www.parl.gc.ca/CommitteeBusiness/CommitteeHome.aspx?Cmte=PROC&Language=E&Mode=1&Parl=41&Ses=2

Sincerely,

Honourable Mauril Bélanger, M.P.
Ottawa-Vanier