DATE: December 29, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Delay of passport requirements to enter US

On December 26, President Bush signed a Bill that will delay the implementation of passport requirements for travel by land and sea, under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) until June 1, 2009. This delay only applies to Canadians traveling by land and sea. Canadians traveling by air to, or through, the United States must present a valid Canadian passport or a valid NEXUS card at a NEXUS kiosk in participating airports.

Stockwell Day, Minister For Public Safety, will continue to work with Secretary Chertoff to confirm that alternative secure documents, such as enhanced drivers’ licences, might be accepted to enter the USA across the land border instead of passports.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “I am very pleased that the US government has decided to delay the implementation of the WHTI for travel by land and sea. However I am still concerned about the impact the US WHTI will have on the economy and border communities of both countries.

“While our government’s efforts have produced some results in this matter, it is still important for all Canadians to get a passport if they plan to travel to the United States.”

DATE: December 17, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Food and Consumer safety action plan

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the Food and Consumer Safety Action Plan, a comprehensive set of new measures that will make Canadians safer by legislating tougher federal government regulation of food, health, and consumer products.

Our Government is proposing a sweeping new Action Plan to enhance the confidence of Canadians in the safety and reliability of our consumer, food, and health products.
It responds to the concerns of Canadians underlined by recent incidents including high levels of lead in children's toys and food and drug recalls.

This plan will shift the emphasis from reacting to problems once they've been discovered to preventing them in the first place. Under the plan, the Government would provide better safety information to consumers and guidance to industries on building safety throughout their supply chains - all to encourage vigilance and prevent as many problems as possible.

While the vast majority of Canada's processors, importers, manufacturers and suppliers provide safe products, we need to modernize our system to better protect Canadians against the very few who act irresponsibly.

Under the current model, Canada’s Food and Drug Act's highest penalty when it comes to health products is only $5,000. The government will raise them to current international standards.

The Government will engage the full range of partners on this plan to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “The plan also seeks to equip government with the tools needed to respond more rapidly to problems as soon as they're discovered. This would include gaining the power to pull unsafe consumer and health products from store shelves. It will also improve our ability to oversee food recalls. If accidents occur, the plan will help the Government move quickly to protect and inform the public.”

DATE: December 12, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: EcoAUTO Rebate Program

Today Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, released the list of 2008 model year vehicles eligible for the ecoAUTO Rebate Program. Minister Cannon said, “The ecoAUTO Rebate Program is one example of how this government is encouraging Canadians to make more environmentally friendly transportation choices. It also saves them money and protects their health and the environment.”

The ecoAUTO Rebate Program offers rebates from $1,000 to $2,000 to Canadians who purchase or lease (12-months or more) a new fuel-efficient vehicle.
Canadians have been offered rebates since March 20, 2007. Model year 2006, 2007, and 2008 vehicles qualifying for the rebate include some hybrid electric vehicles and highly energy efficient vehicles. The list of eligible vehicles is available on the Transport Canada webside and includes:

• New passenger cars with a combined city-highway fuel consumption of 6.5 litres (L/100 km) or less;
• New minivans, sport utility vehicles, and other light trucks with a combined city-highway fuel consumption of 8.3 L/100 km or less;
• New flex fuel vehicles (vehicles equipped by manufacturers to operate on gasoline or a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline) with a combined city-highway E85 fuel consumption rating of 13.0 / 100 km or less.

The application form is available on the internet at www.ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoauto, at vehicle dealers, by calling the ecoAUTO toll free number at 1-800-506-6804 or by visiting any Service Canada Centre to download and print the form.

A cheque will be sent if the application meets all eligibility requirements.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “Reducing our eco-footprint on our planet will ensure our children and grandchildren a healthy quality of life in the years to come. It’s up to all of us to take steps to make the air we breath as free of chemicals as possible. By buying a Made-in-North America fuel efficient vehicle we can help clean up our air, save money on transportation costs, and protect our health and our environment at the same time.”

DATE: December 3, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Retroactive raises for all Canadian Forces personnel

In a continuing effort to provide reasonable and predictable compensation and benefits to all Canadian Forces (CF) personnel, the Department of National Defence has announced annual adjustments to CF pay and changes affecting post-living differential (PLD).

Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, said, “We came to office promising to rebuild the CF, to treat our CF personnel with respect, and to give them the tools they need to get the job done. Our forces do tremendous work every day, under the toughest of conditions. Our sailors, soldiers, air men and women, deserve a fair compensation and benefits package throughout the course of their careers, wherever they may be posted.

“We are standing up for our troops by adding more than $100 Million to the DND payroll in order to provide pay raises across the board. The raises are retroactive to April 1st of this year.”

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “We watch our men and women in uniform coming and going from CFB Trenton and realize the dedication they have to our country. It is only fair that we compensate them for the exceptional efforts they make daily for each one of us.”

DATE: November 26, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Global initiative to save a Million lives

Prime Minister Stephen Harper, from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, announced today that Canada, in partnership with UNICEF, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank, and other donor countries is leading an ambitious initiative to improve healthcare for impoverished mothers and children in Africa and Asia.

The Initiative to Save a Million Lives will strengthen health systems by training frontline health workers and delivering affordable healthcare services directly to local communities.

“The Canadian led Initiative to Save a Million Lives will deliver basic, cost-effective, and lifesaving health services to mothers and children in countries where the needs are greatest,” said Prime Minister Harper. “Once fully implemented, the Initiative will save over 500 children’s lives every day.

“Canada is on track to double its aid to Africa by 2008-09.

“These actions are getting real results, including lower rates of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, increased peace and security, stronger economic growth, and better governance.”

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West, added from Ottawa, “Canada has always been known as a caring nation and this Initiative proves our commitment at home and to the rest of the world. Canada’s contribution of $105 Million over five years to the Initiative will train over 40,000 health workers and provide much needed treatment for diseases such as malaria, measles, and malnutrition. These efforts alone can be expected to save 200,000 lives in Africa. I’m proud to be part of a government that listens and cares.”

DATE: November 21, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Health Canada confirms no panic needed in Port Hope uranium study

A study recently released by the Port Hope Community Health Concerns Committee (PHCHCC), a self-appointed community watchdog organization, has brought needless, negative attention to the community of Port Hope. The PHCHCC commissioned the Uranium Medical Research Centre to conduct a study of uranium levels in the bodies of nine local residents.

After receiving the summary of the study, Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West, forwarded the information to the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health, and asked him to have Health Canada review the findings of the study.

“After review, Health Canada officials have made it very clear that every human being has natural levels of uranium in their body,” Mr. Norlock said. “Through the eating of rooted vegetables, drinking water, and through the very air we breathe, each one of us comes daily into contact with natural, safe levels of uranium.

“Dr. Jack Cornett, PhD, Director Radiation Protection Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, at Health Canada, indicated that in review, the levels that were suggested by the PHCHCC study are well within the range of expected, naturally occurring, uranium levels, typically found in human beings in every city in Canada and other countries around the world.

“Health Canada has confirmed what residents of Port Hope have always known: their community is healthy and vibrant,” Mr. Norlock concluded. “I hope that in the future all citizens and groups will make responsible statements about our communities, with due consideration to the consequences of their actions. Port Hope is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Let’s not jeopardize that for a few sensational headlines that in the end hurt us all.”

DATE: November 21, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Mandatory prison sentences for producers and traffickers of illegal drugs

On Tuesday, Nov 20th, Justice Minister Rob Nicholson introduced a Bill to get tough on people who commit the serious crimes of producing and selling illegal drugs. When he introduced the Bill, Minister Nicholson said, “This government continues to deliver what is important to Canadians – the safety and security of their families and communities. Drug producers and dealers who threaten the safety of our communities must face tougher penalties. This is why your government is moving to impose mandatory jail time for serious drug offences that involve organized crime, violence, or youth.”

The new legislation proposes mandatory sentences when, for example:

• the offence of trafficking is carried out for organized crime purposes, or a weapon, or violence is involved.
• the drug is sold to youth or the trafficking offence takes place near a school, or an area normally frequented by young people, and
• the production of the illegal drug constitutes a potential security, health, or safety hazard to children or a residential community.

As well the maximum sentences for drug production are also increased from seven to 14 years.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West, said, “Mandatory prison sentences send a clear message to potential offenders: grow-ops, and drug labs located in residential neighbourhoods, that selling drugs to youth or trafficking near schools will not be tolerated.”

DATE: November 16, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Kraft Foods Inc to close Cobourg facility

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today, “I was very disappointed to learn that Kraft Foods will close its Cobourg manufacturing facility by October 2008. This means that 380 employees and their families are facing difficult times until they can find suitable replacement employment.”

Mr. Norlock added that he has already been in touch with the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development to inform him of this unfortunate closing and to begin the process of delivering all services that are available through Service Canada to those who will be losing their jobs. A team of Service Canada representatives will be assigned to assist Kraft Foods Human Resources.

Mr. Norlock added, “I regret deeply the decision made by Kraft Foods to close this plant but I am working with Mayor Peter Delanty of Cobourg, and other federal, provincial, and municipal leaders to bring all possible aid to these employees facing unemployment next year.

“We are also working with all parties to seek out potential purchasers for the plant and how we can attract other industries, knowing we have highly skilled people in the Agri-food industry ready to work at a moments notice.”

Mr. Norlock also said he will be meeting soon with Ministers Prentice and Flaherty to see how best to address the manufacturing situation in Northumberland Quinte West as well as Eastern Ontario.

DATE: November 12, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Canada protests unfair US agricultural subsidies

Late last week David Emerson, Minister of International Trade, and Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced that Canada has asked for the establishment of a World Trade Organizations (WTO) dispute settlement panel on the issue of US trade-distorting domestic agricultural subsidies.

This WTO dispute settlement action reinforces Canada’s efforts in the WTO to reduce US agricultural subsidies that are reflected in unfair competition to Canadian agricultural producers. Brazil also announced today that it is asking for a similar WTO dispute settlement panel. Canada and Brazil have been working together to coordinate their challenges. Given their similarities it is expected their cases will be heard by a single panel.

It is Canada’s view that when trade-distorting domestic support is properly accounted for under the WTO agreement on Agriculture, the US has exceeded its WTO commitment in 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “We expect the United States to live up to its WTO commitments. That’s why Canada is trying to level the playing field for Canadian farmers, including farmers here in Northumberland Quinte West, who have to compete against these large distorting US subsidies on a daily basis. Canada is taking steps to protect the incomes of all farmers across the country.”

DATE: November 5, 2007

FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: New Horizons for Seniors

Canada’s government recognizes the role seniors play in building strong communities. It is for that reason Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and Secretary of State Marjory LeBreton announced a call for applications for the new components to the New Horizons for Seniors Program.

In total $10 Million in funding is available to support projects by community organizations to combat elder abuse and fraud, and better deliver activities and programs for seniors.

The New Horizons for Seniors Program supports local projects across Canada that encourage seniors to contribute to their communities through social participation and active living.

Applications for funding must be received before December 14, 2007.

For applications and for more information on New Horizons for Seniors visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/community_partnerships/seniors/index.shtml

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West, said, “Canada’s government has invested $10 Million in this program to combat elder abuse and repair and upgrade community buildings that deliver senior’s programs. Those who work with seniors in Northumberland Quinte West should look carefully at the web site and see how they can take part in this important program.”

Today Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Minister of the Environment John Baird announced the creation of Canada’s newest National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA). Mr. Harper noted, “This is an outstanding example of Federal, Provincial, and First Nations cooperation. The Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area will be the largest, protected, fresh water marine area in the world!”

National marine conservation areas are part of Parks Canada’s growing number of national heritage sites. These areas protect the natural ecology of a region and create opportunities for visitors to experience these exceptional places and meet the Canadians who call them home.

Marine Conservation Areas protect the environment while preserving the livelihoods of local residents who work in marine industries such as commercial fishing, sport fishing, and shipping.

Dumping, mining, oil and gas exploration and extraction are prohibited throughout these areas.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “The creation of the Lake Superior national marine protection area will be of benefit to the local economy through an added boost to tourism which will create new jobs in the area. Our government is taking action to preserve and protect Canada’s environment, including Lake Superior’s north shore, for future generations of Canadians.”

Today the government of Canada announced that Health Canada is enhancing its current consumer product recall web site. This enhancement will expand the database beyond the current juvenile product information to include other types of consumer products and will incorporate an enhanced search function.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said that, “Unlike the previous government, we are taking consumer protection seriously and are taking action to protect Canadians. The previous government took no action to respond to the product safety concerns of Canadians resulting from globalization and increased world trade.

“This website focuses on food and children’s products and is just one way our government is working to help Canadians have confidence in the products they buy.”
For the first time data bases from different government departments are being combined to allow people to easily search out the information they need on recalled food and childrens’ products, giving families easy access to the most recent recall information which will be posted within hours, not days.

Consumers can search the new website by manufacturer, product name, and date. It goes back to 1995 so families can check on products they may already have in their homes, in addition to recently purchased products.

Mr. Norlock added, “The safety of Canadians is paramount. We are determined to give everyone a stronger, safer, better Canada.” [New web site here]

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West rose in the House of Commons on Monday, October 21, during question period to ask the Minister of Public Safety, The Honourable Stockwell Day the following question:

 “Mr. Speaker, earlier this year the Supreme Court confirmed the use of security certificates and recognized that one of the most fundamental responsibilities of a government is to ensure the security of its citizens. The Court did however ask the government to bring forth legislation to strengthen this important public tool. Can the Minister of Public Safety update the House on when legislation will be introduced?”

 Stockwell Day replied, “Mr. Speaker, the Supreme Court did uphold the principle of the security certificate process. We will be tabling that legislation today, and that is the provision of a special advocate to defend the interests of the persons accused and also to have regular appeal processes that are in place.”

As promised, later that day, Mr. Day tabled Bill C-3 – Amendments to the security certificate process under the Immigration Refugee and Protection Act (IRPA).

The security certificate process is all about the protection of Canadians against threats to their safety and security. Certificates are issued against permanent residents and foreign nationals who are inadmissible to Canada on grounds of security, violating human or international rights, serious criminality or organized criminality. Those subject to security certificates are often in Canada illegally and, even under the authority of a security certificate, they are free to leave Canada at any time and return to their country of origin. Since 1991 there have been 28 security certificates issued, six in the last six years.

The legislation introduced will strengthen the process by introducing security-cleared lawyers (special advocates) who are mandated to represent the accused in court and making other changes to improve the process, such as allowing for appeals of court decisions in certain circumstances.

Mr. Day concluded, “This legislation in an essential public safety tool.”

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today, “I would like to extend my congratulations and appreciation to the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping, the Canadian Forces, the RCMP, and other veterans groups for organizing a special event to honour peacekeepers.

“Yesterday, October 21, a special ceremony was held at the National Peacekeeping Monument in Ottawa to pay tribute to Canadian Peacekeepers, past and present. Mr. Royal Galipeau attended the ceremony on behalf of Minister McKay and the Canadian government.

“United Nations Day is October 24,” Mr. Norlock said. “Peace support operations, whether directly for the UN, or under a UN mandate, as in Afghanistan, continue to define Canada as a nation, and our contribution to the world stage.

 “Canada’s role in peace support operations continues to evolve: from observing cease-fires, to diplomatic negotiations, to coordinating humanitarian projects. Canada remains committed to bringing peace, security, and stability to those who need it around the world.”

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today, “Yesterday, your government introduced the Tackling Violent Crimes Act (Bill C-2). This is legislation that will ensure key reforms to Canada’s criminal justice move swiftly through the legislative process and finally become law. This legislation introduces again significant crime Bills that were extensively debated by Parliament during the last session, but never became law due to the stalling of the Opposition.

“Canadians made it clear to us that they want to see action – they want Parliament to move quickly and decisively to tackle crime and make our communities safer.”

Due to Opposition’s delay tactics:

• C-10 (MANDATORY MINIMUM PENALTIES FOR FIREARMS OFFENCES)was stalled in committee for 252 days and the Bill died after a total of 414 days before Parliament.
• C-22 (AGE OF PROTECTION) was stalled in committee 175 days and the Bill died after a total of 365 days before Parliament.
• C-27 (DANGEROUS OFFENDERS) was stalled in committee for 105 days and the Bill died after a total of 246 days before Parliament.
• C-35 (REVERSE ONUS ON BAIL FOR FIREARM OFFENCES) was stalled in committee for 64 days and the Bill died after 211 days before Parliament.
• C-32 (DRUG IMPAIRED DRIVING) was stalled in committee 149 days and the Bill died after a total of 210 days before Parliament.

“I believe, along with most Canadians, that this is totally unacceptable,” Mr. Norlock continued, “we expect prompt passage of these crucial measures.”

Bill C-2 includes measures on: imposing mandatory jail time for serious gun crimes; enforcing tougher bail rules when a gun is used to commit a crime; increasing the age of consent for sexual activity from 14 to 16 years; cracking down on drug impaired drivers; and ensuring that high-risk and dangerous offenders face tougher consequences when they are sentenced and are kept better track of to prevent them from offending again and again.

“If the Liberal Opposition allows our Throne speech to pass, they cannot obstruct our core priorities… which include this Bill,” Mr. Norlock concluded.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today, “A mini-mandate Speech from the Throne provides an opportunity to frame the next phase of the Government’s policy agenda while highlighting accomplishments to date.

“In the latest Throne Speech your government continues to focus on what Canadians have asked, they ask for a government that:

• is accountable and spends taxpayers money wisely
• delivers real benefits to ordinary working people and their families
• works cooperatively with the provinces and territories
• defends and advances Canada’s interests and values around the world.”

• Through the realization of our strong Arctic vision
• Through a responsible, effective path forward in Afghanistan

2. Strengthening the Federation and our democratic institutions

• Through measures including formal limits on federal spending power
• Through long overdue reform of the Senate

3. Providing effective economic leadership

• By aggressively moving forward with broad tax relief that includes a further promised reduction to the GST.

4. Tackling crime and strengthening the security of Canadians

• By introducing important crime legislation with the new Tackling Violent Crime Act.
• By turning a strong focus to safe communities and youth and property crime.

5. Improving the environment and health of Canadians

• By continuing to deliver realistic and achievable results in areas such as: Environmental enforcement, and product food and safety.
  

Mr. Norlock concluded, “The Conservative Government that Canadians elected to improve life for themselves and their families continues to deliver. Under the strong leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper we are building a stronger, better, safer Canada.”

The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, announced today that Canada’s government has fulfilled its promise to better the needs of veterans by appointing Colonel Patrick B. Stogran as Canada’s first Veterans Ombudsman.

“Our veterans have always been willing to stand up for Canada and we are proud to stand by them now by appointing a Veterans Ombudsman,” said Minister Thompson.
During the 2006 election campaign, Conservatives promised to treat our veterans with the respect and honour they deserve, and we have delivered:

• A New Veterans Charter — to make sure the veterans of today and the veterans of tomorrow get the services and care they need;
• A Veterans Bill of Rights — to ensure veterans are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect; and
• An Office of the Veterans Ombudsman — to address the needs and concerns of Canada’s Veterans.

The Veterans Ombudsman will review and suggest ways to resolve issues related to Veterans Affairs programs, and provide information to veterans regarding access to programs and services. As an advocate for veterans, the Ombudsman will ensure veterans are treated with the dignity, fairness and respect they’ve earned and deserve.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today, “By getting things done for veterans, Canada’s government is building a stronger, safer, better Canada.”

            Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, with Minister Jim Flaherty and Donald A. Wright, Via Rail’s Chairman, today announced a new funding package for Via Rail Canada Inc., a crown corporation, to revitalize inter-city passenger rail service in Canada.

            The package of more than $690 Million over five years is the largest capital program in Via Rail’s history and will allow for the renewal of Via Rail’s fleet, the upgrading of the existing network, and will support a stronger economy, a cleaner environment, and a safer Canada.

            Of the total funding package $516 Million will be allocated over five years for infrastructure improvements and equipment refurbishing beginning in 2007. This investment will be targeted towards: Fleet renewal: through refurbishment of the F40 locomotives and light, rapid, and comfortable passenger cars; strategic infrastructure improvements to eliminate bottlenecks in the Quebec City/Windsor corridor and station improvements.

            Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today,  “The corridor between Quebec City and Windsor has the largest passenger volumes in the country and will benefit from the planned improvements that will make the entire passenger service more efficient and accessible for all Canadians.

            “This investment of more than $690 Million over five years further demonstrates our government’s commitment to improving Canada’s national transportation infrastructure.”