2016 Liberal Policy Resolutions

8/16/2019 2016 Liberal Policy Resolutions

1/86

Policy Resolution Handbook


2/86

2016 Liberal Biennial ConventionWinnipeg, Manitoba May 26th-29th

i

Table of Contents Priority Resolutions ....................................................................................................................................... 2

P-01 Adjacency Principle ........................................................................................................................... 2

P-02 Infrastructure Spending Long Term Planning and Co-ordination ..................................................... 3

P-03 Maritime Immigration ...................................................................................................................... 4

P-04 Constructing a Bridge on the eastside of NCR .................................................................................. 5

P-05 Poverty Reduction: Minimum Income .............................................................................................. 6

P-06 National Water Security Strategy ..................................................................................................... 7

P-07 A National Housing Strategy for Canadians ...................................................................................... 8

P-08 Palliative and Home Care .................................................................................................................. 9

P-09 Gender Parity on Corporate Boards ............................................................................................... 10

P-10 Affordable Housing ......................................................................................................................... 11

P-11 Northern Infrastructure .................................................................................................................. 12

P-12 Public Library Services in Aboriginal Communities ......................................................................... 13

P-13 Protecting LGBTQ2+ Rights & Refugees ......................................................................................... 14

Workshop A: Economic Growth, Innovation, and Agriculture ................................................................... 15

A-01 Fisheries and Aquaculture Sustainability Plan................................................................................ 15

A-02 Marine Safety ................................................................................................................................. 16

A-03 Canadian Corporate Responsibility outside Canada ...................................................................... 17

A-04 Public Hearings on the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) .............................................. 18

A-05 Pension Reform .............................................................................................................................. 19

A-06 Elimination of Interprovincial Trade and Non-Trade Barriers ........................................................ 20

A-07 Agriculture Rail Costing Review ...................................................................................................... 21

A-08 Farming Business Risk Management Programs.............................................................................. 22

A-09 National Farmland Ownership Investigation .................................................................................. 23

A-10 Restore Prairie Farming Programs.................................................................................................. 24

A-11 Special Committee on Grain Transportation .................................................................................. 25

A-12 Supporting New Farmers ................................................................................................................ 26

A-13 Rural Infrastructure Initiative ......................................................................................................... 27

A-14 Addressing the Wage Gap by Legislating Pay Equity ...................................................................... 28

A-15 Small Business Creation for Female Entrepreneurs in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Rural Areas29


3/86


ii

Workshop B: Indigenous Peoples and the North ........................................................................................ 30

B-01 Measure to Improve the Situation of Indigenous People in Canada ............................................. 30

B-02 Canada’s Indigenous Peoples ......................................................................................................... 31

B-03 First Nations’ Housing ..................................................................................................................... 32

B-04 First Nations "Partnerships" ........................................................................................................... 33

B-05 Policy Resolution on Development of the Ring of Fire (RoF) ......................................................... 34

B-06 Governor General Indigenous Inclusion ......................................................................................... 35

B-07 Indigenous Definition Equally Inclusive of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis ..................................... 36

B-08 A Resolution for the Development of a First Nations Governance Law ......................................... 37

B-09 Immediate repeal needed to Bill C-51 ............................................................................................ 38

B-10 Acting on Indigenous Youth Suicide Prevention............................................................................. 39

B-11 Policy on Official Languages ........................................................................................................... 40

B-12 Policy: NIHB – First Nations and Inuit Health Equality ................................................................... 41

B-13 Social Policy for the North .............................................................................................................. 42

B-14 Energy – Northern Initiatives .......................................................................................................... 43

Workshop C: Education, Justice and Democratic Reform .......................................................................... 44

C-01 Improving the Prevention, Reporting, and Prosecuting of Sexual Assault ..................................... 44

C-02 Restoration of Funding to Women’s Advocacy Groups ................................................................. 45

C-03 Promoting a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence ........................................................................... 46C-04 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) ................................................................................................ 47

C-05 Reducing the Voting Age ................................................................................................................ 48

C-06 Improving Access to Justice for all Canadians ................................................................................ 49

C-07 Canada and a Nuclear-Weapon-Free World................................................................................... 50

C-08 Condemning All Forms of Islamophobia......................................................................................... 51

C-09 Early Childhood Development Programs........................................................................................ 52

C-10 Visa-Free Business and Tourism Travel for Ukrainian Citizens ....................................................... 53

C-11 Improving Youth Participation in Democracy ................................................................................. 54

C-12 Expanding Access to Post-Secondary Education ............................................................................ 55

Workshop D: Environment, Energy ............................................................................................................ 56

D-01 Combating Climate Change and Establishing Environmental Rights ............................................. 56

D-02 Improving the Health of the Lake Winnipeg Watershed ............................................................... 57

D-03 A National Sustainable Clean Energy Strategy for Canada ............................................................ 58


4/86


iii

D-04 Developing a Coherent Arctic Strategy .......................................................................................... 59

D-05 Value Added Development of Canada’s Resources ....................................................................... 60

D-06 Ship Source Oil Pollution Fund (SOPF) ........................................................................................... 61

D-07 Registry of Ship Wrecks .................................................................................................................. 62

D-08 Transition to a Global Zero-Emission Vehicle Fleet ........................................................................ 63

D-09 Geothermal Subsidies .................................................................................................................... 64

D-10 Energy Transition Training.............................................................................................................. 65

D-11 Economic Infrastructure for Rural Communities ........................................................................... 66

D-12 Ocean Acidification and CO2 Emissions ......................................................................................... 67

D-13 Off-shoring of Taxable Income ....................................................................................................... 68

D-14 Climate Change .............................................................................................................................. 69

Workshop E: Health .................................................................................................................................... 70

E-01 Health Care Strategy ....................................................................................................................... 70

E-02 Addressing the Poverty Gap ........................................................................................................... 71

E-03 Homelessness ................................................................................................................................. 72

E-04 Medicare Coverage for the Treatment of Autism .......................................................................... 73

E-05 National Framework for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Health ........................................... 74

E-06 Expanding Access to Health Services .............................................................................................. 75

E-07 Mandatory Labelling of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) and Foods ................................. 76E-08 Sugar as a Public Health Concern ................................................................................................... 77

E-09 Pharmacare - To Serve the Public and Save Billions of Dollars for Governments .......................... 78

E-10 Universal Pharmacare ..................................................................................................................... 79

E-11 Long-Term Care Policy .................................................................................................................... 80

E-12 Drugs and Addiction as a Healthcare Issue ..................................................................................... 81

E-13 Reaffirming Women’s Right to Reproductive Health Services ....................................................... 82

E-14 Environmental Impacts on Human Health ..................................................................................... 83


5/86


2

Priority Resolutions

P-01 Adjacency Principle

Whereas coastal communities in Canadian provinces and territories have an intrinsic social andeconomic link to adjacent resources;

Whereas historic attachment and dependence on resources in Canadian coastal communities havewelded a cultural mosaic into the fabric of the people who live there;

Whereas options required for economic survival and sustainability of coast communities inCanada are primarily limited to adjacent resources;

Whereas fish management policies of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans have ignored thetraditional principle of adjacency and have created a disproportion allocation of fishery resourcesin adjacent coastal areas to non-residents, large offshore fishing fleets and foreign interests; and

Whereas the absence of application of the adjacency principle in the allocation of resources havecreated far-reaching social economic consequence in rural coastal communities;

Be it resolved, the Liberal government of Canada establish a “Declaration of Adjacency”, which

shall be defined as the fundamental right of those living in Canada to have the first right of benefit from those resources that are in adjacent proximity to their communities and regions;

Be it further resolved, the “Declaration of Adjacency” shall be the defining principle that formsthe basis of managing the allocation of resources in the coastal areas and regions of Canadian provinces and territories; and

Be it also resolved, current allocations and practices are reviewed against the “Declaration ofAdjacency” and appropriate adjustments made in instances where there is an absence of an

application of the adjacency principle.

(250 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Newfoundland and Labrador)


6/86


3

P-02 Infrastructure Spending Long Term Planning and Co-ordination

Whereas the Federal government has designated $11.9 billion over the next two years and $125 billion over the next ten years for new and renewed infrastructure;

Whereas the Provincial Governments of Ontario and Quebec have recognized the importance ofengaging in long term strategic planning for infrastructure and have passed legislation tofacilitate such embedded scheduling;

Whereas the Province of Ontario has included in its Jobs and Prosperity Act “CommunityBenefit Agreements” which will require contractors on large scale projects to develop

recruitment initiatives for local construction and trade workers including veterans, aboriginals,

women, youth and newcomers to Canada;

Whereas Province of Ontario in passing Bill 91 has budgeted for $130 billion over 10 yearsincluding $31.5 billion for roads, bridges and transit as well as emergency and priorityinfrastructure;

Whereas the Province of Quebec has committed to $88.4 billion for infrastructure projects between 2015 and 2025 under the Quebec Infrastructure Plan;

Whereas the Province of Quebec has mandated Annual Management Plans for PublicInfrastructure Investments;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada ask that the government Federal governmentshow leadership in encouraging all provinces and territories to legislate long term plans forscheduling infrastructure projects in a coordinated fashion with the Federal budgeting process sothat long term infrastructure needs in all provinces and territories can be met and planning for,with regard to cost sharing purposes.

(223 Words) Liberal Party of Prince Edward Island


7/86


4

P-03 Maritime Immigration

Whereas the Nova Scotia population is dwindling, and, as the Ivany Report indicates, one pathway to progress is through immigration; whereas there is a federal cap on the numbers permitted for immigration to Nova Scotia:

Be it resolved that the federal government remove the cap, encourage immigration to NovaScotia and the Maritimes, especially in rural areas, and use temporary foreign workers as a pathway to permanent citizenship in order to help sustain the region and stimulate growth.

(79 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Nova Scotia)


8/86


5

P-04 Constructing a Bridge on the eastside of NCR

Whereas the necessity of an interprovincial link on the Eastside of the National Capital Region isrecognized since 1950;

Whereas the most recent Interprovincial Bridge Crossing Study1 financially supported by theFederal, Ontario, and Quebec government, in conjunction with the city of Ottawa and Gatineau,has identified the urgent need of a new interprovincial link;

Whereas if a new bridge is not constructed, the number of heavy vehicles that crossing the city ofOttawa and the traffic on the Highway 50 will continue to increase, with negative impact on theregional economy and the well-being of its population;

Whereas it is possible to establish measures that will reduce the concerns of the residentsregarding the noise and the security around the new bridge proposed;

Whereas the propositions of the report are based on a rigorous process that includes publichearings.

Be it resolved that the construction of a bridge on the eastside of the National Capital Region be prioritized and that the amount of money necessary for its construction are allocated by theGovernment in order to develop a final plan for the construction with the collaboration of the provincial and municipal governments.

(208 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Québec)

1 (Roche-NCE, « Background », Évaluation environnementale des liaisons interprovinciales,2009-2013),


9/86


6

P-05 Poverty Reduction: Minimum Income

Be it resolved:

That the Liberal Party of Canada, in consultation with the provinces, develop a poverty reductionstrategy aimed at providing a minimum guaranteed income.

Rationale:

The ever growing gap between the wealthy and the poor in Canada will lead to social unrest,increased crime rates and violence. Research indicates that a guaranteed basic income canreduce this gap, and create social security while being cost neutral. Savings in health, justice,education and social welfare as well as the building of self-reliant, taxpaying citizens more thanoffset the investment. Mincome was an experimental basic income project that occurred inDauphin, Manitoba during the 1970s. The project, funded jointly by the Manitoba provincialgovernment and the Canadian federal government, began with a news release on February 22,1974, and was closed down in 1979. The purpose of this experiment was to determine whether aguaranteed, unconditional annual income caused disincentive to work for the recipients, and howgreat such a disincentive would be.

A final report was never issued, but Dr. Evelyn Forget conducted an analysis of the program in2009 which was published in 2011. Forget found that in the period that mincome wasadministered, hospital visits dropped 8.5%, with fewer incidents of work-related injuries, andfewer emergency room visits from car accidents and domestic abuse. Additionally, the periodsaw a reduction in rates of psychiatric hospitalization, and in the number of mental illness-relatedconsultations with health professionals.

(239 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Manitoba)

http://leadersandlegacies.com/2015/05/01/goodbye-welfare-hello-basic-income/web25.uottawa.ca/academic/health/ipph/EvelynForget _phiric.pdf

http://leadersandlegacies.com/2015/05/01/goodbye-welfare-hello-basic-income/http://leadersandlegacies.com/2015/05/01/goodbye-welfare-hello-basic-income/


10/86


7

P-06 National Water Security Strategy

Whereas water is a fundamental requirement for life, liberty and the security of the individual;whereas

Whereas numerous Canadian communities have, or continue to have water shortages and waterquality challenges;

Whereas water security faces increasing risk due to climate change;

Whereas commercial water rights and permits are being sold for much less than fair value toCanadians;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada update and implement the 1987 Federal CanadaWater Policy, with additional attention to:

Access to safe drinking water as a human right,

Establishing priorities for the use of water and regulations for the sale of water,

Mapping, developing and protecting the inventory of Canadian water resources,

Regulating industrial and commercial waste water emissions to the highest standards.

Be it further resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada consult with all the provinces, territories,First Nations, Metis, Inuit, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and all other relevantstakeholders to develop a comprehensive national water policy.

(166 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Saskatchewan)

Co-sponsor: Liberal Party of Canada (Manitoba)


11/86


8

P-07 A National Housing Strategy for Canadians

Whereas federal leadership is required to address a comprehensive and nationwide housingstrategy;

Whereas Canada is the only G8 country not to have a National Housing Strategy;

Whereas the Liberal Party of Canada along with housing advocates and numerous organizationsacross Canada have long requested action on this issue;

Whereas the social and economic costs of not having safe, adequate, and affordable housing have been well documented;

Whereas affordable housing was an important part of the 2015 Liberal election platform(Fairness for the Middle Class) and there is a clear need for a National Housing Strategy to solvethe shortages of subsidized, affordable, and emergency housing.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to prioritize thedevelopment of a comprehensive National Housing Strategy;

Be it further resolved that the cost of developing a National Housing Strategy be covered by the promised social infrastructure funding.

(156 Words) Liberal Party of Canada (Ontario)


12/86


9

P-08 Palliative and Home Care

Whereas thousands of Canadians suffer unnecessarily each year because they have no access to palliative care, which unduly increases the use of emergency healthcare2;

Whereas palliative care improves the quality of life of patients and families;

Whereas publicly funded and administered health care is increasingly under pressure to cutservices3;

Whereas delivery of long-term care, home care, mental health services and comprehensive pharmaceutical and wellness programs is neither universal nor consistent in its quality andsupport across Canada, with only 15% having access to quality palliative care4;

Whereas national Pharmacare, the sale of marijuana, and less demand for acute care will result insavings that can be redirected to home and palliative care;

Be it resolved that the Federal Liberal Government craft new, fully cost accounted legislation toimplement, in cooperation with the Provinces and Territories, national programs in home and palliative care that are universal and accountable and complementary to the Canada Health Act5;

Be it further resolved that the Federal Liberal Government establish, implement and enforcemeasurable Standards of Quality Care though legislation to ensure compliance;

Be it further resolved that such standards include integration of palliative care across all sectorsof the health care continuum not just at end of the patient care; and

Be it further resolved that the Federal Liberal Government make innovation in healthcaredelivery a priority, with consideration given to the successful Canadian cooperatives model andto the most successful European nations6.

(248 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Alberta)

2 Church, E. (2016). Canadians lack proper access to palliative care, study finds. The Globe and Mail. Retrieved from http://www.theglobeandmail. com/news/national/canadians-lack-proper-

access-to-palliative-care-study-finds/article28122378/ ; Blackwell, T. (2015). Last month of life costs healthcare system $14k on average: report. The National Post. Retrieved from

http://news.nationalpost.com/news/canada/last-month-of-life-costs-health-care- system-14k-on-average-report3 Stunden Bower, S. and Campanella, D. (2013). From Bad to Worse: Residential elder care in Alberta. Parkland Institute. Retrieved

http://www.parklandinstitute.ca/from_bad_to_worse_residential_elder_care_in_alberta4 See note 1; Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association Inc. (2012). CLHIA Report On Long-Term Care Policy: Improving The Accessibility, Quality And Sustainability Of Long-Term Care In

Canada Retrieved from https://www.clhia.ca/domino/html/clhia/CLHIA_LP4W_LND_Webstation.nsf/ resources/Content_PDFs/$file/LTC_Policy_Paper.pdf5 Parliamentary Committee on Palliative and Compassionate Care. (2011). Not to be Forgotten: Care of Vulnerable Canadians. Retrieved from http://pcpcc-cpspsc.com/wp-

content/uploads/2011/11/ReportEN.pdf6 Baxter, R. et al. (2014). How is the positive deviance approach applied within healthcare organizations: A systematic review of methods used. BMC Health Services Research. 14 (Supp 2), 7.

Retrieved from http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6963/14/S2/P7; Girard, J. (2014). Better health and social care: How are co-ops and mutual boosting innovation and access worldwide:

An international survey of co-ops and mutual at work in the health and social care sector. Montreal: LPS Productions. Retrieved from http://www.ica-

ap.coop/sites/all/themes/ica_theme/ica_images/International-survey-co_op- and-mutual-Health-and-social-care-CMHSC-14.pdf; Canadian Co-operative Association. (2011). Co-operatives:

Building blocks for an innovative economy. Retrieved from http://www.coopscanada.coop/assets/firefly/files/files/CDI_Renewal_Proposal_FINAL_EN.pdf


13/86


10

P-09 Gender Parity on Corporate Boards

Whereas women comprised 47.3% of the paid labour force in Canada but only 20.8% of boarddirectors of companies on the Canadian Stock Index in 2014, so that Canada ranks 15th amongmajor industrialized countries for women on boards, a decline from ninth in 2011 and sixth in2009;

Whereas many industrialized countries have made significant progress by enacting genderrepresentation laws with minimums set at 40%, a figure adopted in 2012 by the EuropeanCommission and subsequently by the European Parliament;

Whereas there is a positive correlation across most industries between the percentage of womencorporate officers and a company’s financial performance, and there are other advantages such as

greater breadth of perspective and more innovation, which benefits customers, employees, andshareholders;

Whereas in 2009, Quebec amended the Act Respecting the Governance of State-owned Enterprises to require provincial Crown corporations to have equal numbers of men and womenon their boards and to reflect the diversity of Quebec by 2011;

Whereas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been praised around the world for appointing adiverse, gender-balanced Cabinet; and

Whereas in December 2015, Senator Céline Hervieux-Payette introduced Bill S-207 to address

balanced representation on certain boards;

Be it further resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the Government of Canada to enactand implement Bill S-207, An Act to modernize the composition of the boards of directors ofcertain corporations, financial institutions and parent Crown corporations, and in particular to

ensure the balanced representation of women and men on those boards.

(256 Words) National W omen’s Liberal Commission


14/86


11

P-10 Affordable Housing

Whereas the objective of housing policy should be to encourage availability of affordable housing forCanadians and affordable housing is increasingly difficult to find - especially in large cities such asVancouver and Toronto;

Whereas current housing patterns give rise to legitimate concerns about urban sprawl, greenhouse gasemissions, and inefficient land use;

Whereas some observers have raised questions about the influence of trading, speculation, orpurchases by offshore buyers on land values and little reliable data is available to answer questions of

this nature for real estate markets in Canada;

Whereas the government of Canada could consider a wide range of measures to encourage availabilityof affordable housing;

Be it resolved the Liberal Party of Canada make it a priority to have the federal government work

urgently with provincial and municipal governments to encourage housing affordability, especially in

major cities, by making use of appropriate policy levers available to the federal government;

Be it resolved the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to consider measures to:

develop better data on the operation of the housing markets, including on the impact of foreign

investment

increase supply of affordable housing, including rental, by providing financial support or other

incentives, or by creating dis-incentives to leaving housing units vacant

close loopholes in the existing tax regime as it pertains to housing transactions, and tostrengthen compliance with tax provisions

improve energy efficiency in newly built housing

Be it further resolved that a national housing action plan be developed as a matter of urgency thatwill produce affordable safe housing for Canadians at all income levels and implement theinitiatives identified in the 2015 LPC platform.

(277 Words) Liberal Party of Canada (British Columbia)


15/86


12

P-11 Northern Infrastructure

Whereas Investments in infrastructure is critical to the advancement of northern economies;

Whereas the north is a significant contributor to the future of Canada both nationally and on theinternational stage (sovereignty);

Whereas there are unique engineering challenges faced in the north due to climate change, permafrost and cold conditions.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada will recommend to the government that throughgovernment to government relationships, will be a strong partner assisting the territorial andmunicipal governments established in Yukon and Yukon First Nations governments in the

development of appropriate infrastructures trough significant financial contributions especially inthe following areas: housing, 2nd fiber optic cable, road and airport development and upgrades,and energy infrastructure.

(112 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Yukon)


16/86


13

P-12 Public Library Services in Aboriginal Communities

Whereas every Canadian deserves access to a local public library.

Whereas an estimated 85% of Canadian First Nations communities do not have a local publiclibrary.

Whereas most Canadians know that a strong public library provides an opportunity to improveongoing learning skills, literacy skills and social skills.

Whereas most First Nations are dependent on Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada for program funding, and whereas Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada has zero programs tosupport public libraries

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada supports the establishment of public libraryservices in Aboriginal communities.

(102 words) Aboriginal People’s Commission of Canada


17/86


14

P-13 Protecting LGBTQ2+ Rights & Refugees

Whereas LGBTQ2+ refugees fleeing persecution still face a complex array of challenges andthreats at all stages of displacement, including discrimination, prejudice, violence, difficultyaccessing humanitarian services, and barriers to articulating their protection needs during asylum procedures and other interactions with protection and humanitarian workers;

Whereas the Government of Canada has honored international agreements on LGBTQ2+ rightsand refugees, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the InternationalConvention Civil and Political Rights, and the United Nations Convention for Refugees;

Whereas the Minister of Foreign Affairs may authorize export permits for items included onCanada’s Export Control List, including military-grade equipment, unless the exports intendeduse is to commit human rights violations, as per Global Affairs Canada Export Controls;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada encourages the Government to appoint a Ministerof LGBTQ2+ Equity, and establishes a Department ‘LGBTQ2+ Equity Canada’, and to proactively provide refuge to LGBTQ2+ refugees fleeing potential persecution because of theirsexual orientation or gender identity.

Be it further resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada encourages the Government to work withthe United Nations, and national governments to advocate for the establishment of a United Nations Envoy on LGBTQ2+ Rights.

Be it further resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada will encourage the Minister of ForeignAffairs to exercise their responsibility in denying export permits for states determined andidentified by the United Nations to have threaten the safety or security of human life because oftheir sexual orientation or gender identity.

(250 Words) Young Liberals of Canada


18/86


15

Workshop A: Economic Growth, Innovation, and Agriculture

A-01 Fisheries and Aquaculture Sustainability Plan

Whereas the Liberal Party of Canada has committed to investing in creating Cleaner andsustainable jobs in all of Canada’s natural resource sectors including fisheries and aquaculture;

Whereas the Liberal Party of Canada has committed to addressing climate change and its impacton Canada’s environment;

Whereas 80,000 Canadians make their living directly from fishing and fishing related activities;

Whereas Canada exported $4.9 billion in seafood as of 2014 with lobster remaining the top

species in terms of value with 2014 exports of $1.52 billion and keeping in mind that we exportmore than 80% of our caught fish and seafood;

Whereas according to a University of British Columbia study released in January, 2016 theworld’s fishing industries have taken a 50 per cent larger catch from the ocean ecosystem than previous numbers suggest;

Whereas the European Union recently invested in a research project coordinated by Norway’sArctic University to identify and address challenges and opportunities for fisheries andaquaculture management plans to exploit new opportunities, and implement measures to reducenegative measures to reduce the negative effects of climate change;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada commit to establish research centre(s) ofexcellence focused on climate change in relation to fisheries, reversing fish species collapses andevaluating the sustainability of aquaculture and additionally recommit the $40 million that the previous government cut from the federal ocean science and monitoring programs.

(234 Words) Liberal Party of Prince Edward Island


19/86


16

A-02 Marine Safety

Whereas the waters in and around the Cabot Strait, the Northumberland Strati, the Gulf of St.Lawrence, and all areas near the Atlantic Coast are vulnerable to mishaps involving marinevessel traffic, whereas these waterways are challenging ones through which to navigate, in orderto deal with disasters like that of the MV Miner:

Be it resolved that the federal government increase and make stricter regulations to holdnavigators more accountable and monies more available from the ship owners through suchstructures as bonds and/or sureties to protect the Atlantic Provinces from environmental damageand the associated costs of clean-up and remediation.



20/86


17

A-03 Canadian Corporate Responsibility outside Canada

Whereas Canadian companies have been implicated in human rights violations andenvironmentally destructive practices in other countries, in contravention of several of both the business principles of the UN Global Compact, and the Sustainability Goals of the 2030 Agendafor Sustainable Development);

Whereas notwithstanding these practices, Canadian companies operating outside Canada receivesupport from the Government of Canada in many ways, such as:

Financing through Export Development Canada loans and guarantees; Indirect insurance through Canada’s status as a member of the Multilateral Investment

Guarantee Agency; Diplomatic and/or financial support through embassies, including intervention in legal

cases; Technical and financial support of efforts to weaken mining codes in foreign countries

(e.g. Columbia), diminishing their existing environmental and social safeguards; Government support of provisions in regional trade agreements that undermine

legislation protecting the environment and public well-being; Privileged, non-transparent, access during the negotiations of regional trade agreements

such as the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) and EU-Canada Comprehensive Economicand Trade Agreement (CETA);

Inclusion in Canadian trade missions;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the government of Canada to enact

legislation requiring Canadian companies that receive any form of support from the Governmentof Canada; to meet the same human rights, labour and environmental standards in their operations outside

Canada as they are required to meet within Canada, and

to comply with the ten business principles of the UN Global Compact, and the 17 SustainabilityGoals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.



21/86


18

A-04 Public Hearings on the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP)

Whereas the Trans Pacific Partnership [trade] Agreement (TPP), signed but not yet ratified byCanada, sets binding rules for regulating commerce between its 12 member countries in the 21stcentury;

Whereas concerns about the TPP publicly expressed in Canada include the following: climate change is not mentioned in the TPP’s more than 6000 pages, and its provisions

may restrict what the federal and provincial governments can do to meet Canada’s

international obligations to reduce carbon emissions; enforcement of the TPP’s environmental and labour chapters would be virtually

impossible; a Canada – US side deal on eventual mutual standards for dairy products will lead to

bovine growth hormone in our milk, which is banned in the EU, and has never beenallowed in Canada;

the previous government offered compensation packages to the auto and dairy sectors forthe losses they are expected to suffer;

new patent rules will lock in exorbitant prescription drug prices in Canada, and make life-saving medicine unaffordable in other TPP countries;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the government of Canada, working with the provinces and territories, to undertake a pan-Canadian consultation on the Trans PacificPartnership Agreement (TPP) by conducting public hearings across the country before parliamentary consideration of its ratification.



22/86


19

A-05 Pension Reform

Whereas many Canadians save for their retirement through pension plans offered by theiremployers and the employer contribution to the company pension plan represents deferredearnings for the employee, constituting employee savings;

Whereas this participation is a condition of employment so not voluntary;

Whereas the contributions including both employee earnings and deferred earnings are currentlynot protected by law and may not be available to provide retirement income;

Whereas other savings by Canadians are protected by law through the Canadian Deposit InsuranceCorporation, a Crown Corporation, for up to $100,000 at each financial institution;

Whereas if a company becomes insolvent while its pension plan is not fully funded, the pensionersare not treated as secured creditors.

Be it resolved that the Federal Government establish a system to ensure that the contributions toemployer pension plans are fully insured, and that any employer that offers a company pension plan based on employee/employer contributions must meet federal standards for the managementof such pension plans while maintaining the separation of those funds from any other corporateobligations.

Be it further resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the Government of Canada to amend

the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act so that the company’s obligations to the pensioners aretreated as a secured creditor under the Act.

(214 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Ontario)


23/86


20

A-06 Elimination of Interprovincial Trade and Non-Trade Barriers

Whereas an open, free, single domestic market in goods, services and labour is important for thehealth of the Canadian economy, particularly in times of weak export markets;

Whereas the free flow of goods, services and labour can strengthen Canada's economy, unity andequality of opportunity for all Canadians.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada launch national negotiations, with the provincesand territories, to eliminate all interprovincial trade barriers or impediments to the free flow ofgoods, services and labour in Canada, and to maximize mobility of labour across the entire

country, including the fullest portability, compatibility and common standards of all government benefits and other programs, in the interest of equal opportunity for all Canadians.

(117

words) Liberal Party of Canada (Ontario)


24/86


21

A-07 Agriculture Rail Costing Review

Whereas the last rail costing review was completed in 1992;

Whereas there have been numerous cost-saving changes to the grain transportation system since;

Whereas farmers are paying for competition between inland terminals and use of producer cars;

Be it resolved that the federal government initiate a full railway costing review, while keeping in place the maximum revenue entitlement provision (popularly known as the Revenue Cap).



25/86


22

A-08 Farming Business Risk Management Programs

Whereas under the previous government the Business Risk Management under GrowingForward 2 was decimated;

Whereas given the enormous input costs facing farmers, the risks taken in today’s farming

environment are extreme;

Be it resolved that the federal government initiate with the provinces, and in consultation with producers, the process to improve the farm Business Risk Management programs devastatedunder the Conservatives.



26/86


23

A-09 National Farmland Ownership Investigation

Whereas no comprehensive tracking of foreign ownership of farmland is currently undertaken;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada undertake a national investigation commissioninto foreign farmland ownership and;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada consult with the provinces to implement anational strategy based on the outcome of the aforementioned investigation.



27/86


24

A-10 Restore Prairie Farming Programs

Whereas the Prairie Shelterbelt Program provided crucial support for carbon sequestration, biodiversity, soil and water conservation and preservation of wildlife habitat;

Whereas the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration included initiatives to deal with erosion,water access, irrigation and grass management through the Community Pastures Program;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada restore the Prairie Shelterbelt Program and;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada restore the Prairie Farm RehabilitationAdministration and Community Pastures Program.



28/86


25

A-11 Special Committee on Grain Transportation

Whereas railways have failed to provide the shipping capacity required to transport grain products to port;

Whereas many grain farmers have had difficulties selling their products;

Whereas grain processors have previously cut back operations due to a lack of raw product;

Whereas importers of Canadian grain are turning to alternative suppliers;

Be it resolved that we support the establishment of a committee on grain transportationcomprised of representatives of farmers, grain processors, rail companies, and trucking

companies.



29/86


26

A-12 Supporting New Farmers

Whereas the number of farms with revenues in excess of $1 million dollars increased 36 percent between 2006 and 2012;

Whereas these farms constituted 49 percent of Canada’s food production;

Whereas these farms are almost all family owned;

Whereas the average age of farmers in Canada increased from 47.5 to 54 between 1991 and2011;

Whereas the percentage of farmers under 40 has declined from 25 percent of operators to 10

percent of operators;

Whereas the average price per acre of farm land and buildings was $1,526 in 2010;

Be it resolved that we propose that the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act program increase theloan amount for the purchase of land from $500,000 to $750,000 for first time farmland purchasers;

Be it further resolved that the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act expand the list of eligible loan purposes to include employee costs.



30/86


27

A-13 Rural Infrastructure Initiative

Whereas the infrastructure needs of rural Canada are significant;

Whereas the cost to upgrade rural infrastructure should be shared by federal, provincial andmunicipal governments;

Be it resolved that the federal government ensure that rural Canada be included in theinfrastructure development plans by devoting a portion of funding specifically to rural roads andcommunities.



31/86


28

A-14 Addressing the Wage Gap by Legislating Pay Equity

Whereas Canadian women working full-time earn $0.82 to every $1 earned by men, a gap of

18%, a figure which shows only “minor improvement” since 1977 (from 77.2% to 82.4%) and

which is double the global average;

Whereas Canada currently ranks 28th out of 34 OECD countries with respect to the gender pay

gap, and our international ranking has been declining;

Whereas a federal Pay Equity Task Force set up by a previous Liberal government issued a

report in 2004 calling for new legislation;

Whereas in 2005 a report by the Standing Committee on the Status of Women, chaired by

Liberal MP Anita Neville, “Moving Forward on the Pay Equity Task Force Recommendations,”

further recommended that the Government “draft pay equity legislation to implement the

recommendations of the Pay Equity Task Force Report”;

Whereas making meaningful progress on reducing the wage gap between men and women across

Canada is a priority for the Government of Canada, as stated in the Mandate Letter of the Hon.

Patty Hajdu; and

Whereas Minister Hajdu, speaking to that Standing Committee in 2016, said: “[O]ur government

is strongly supportive of the principle of pay equity” and indicated the Government’s willingness

“to move from vision to action”;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada request the Government of Canada, working

collaboratively with its provincial and territorial counterparts, and with advice from the special

committee recently struck to examine the wage gap, develop and implement new, proactive, pay

equity legislation.

(245 Words) National women’s Liberal Commission

Co-sponsored by the National Seniors Liberal Commission


32/86


29

A-15 Small Business Creation for Female Entrepreneurs in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit

Rural Areas

Whereas self-employment among Aboriginal women is just over half that of Aboriginal men(37% and 63% respectively);1

Whereas a minimum of post-secondary education and full-time employment create self-relianceand help to reduce poverty and economic dependency;2

Whereas the Aboriginal Business Development Program Survey reports only 31% of fundingavailable through Aboriginal Business Canada (managed by INA Canada) was extended toAboriginal women business owners;3

Whereas the Mandate Letter of the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs requires the promotion of “economic development and job creation for Indigenous Peoples”;4

Whereas an environment can be created for women entrepreneurs to learn from one another andtheir male peers, to develop sustainable businesses and build mentorship partnerships;5

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada ask the Government of Canada to create a

competitive Women’s Small Business Opportunities Fund that will (i) focus on providing seed

money to Indigenous women entrepreneurs for small business proposals that incorporate

professional business plans and each project full-time, sustainable employment for a minimum offive employees, and (ii) where the committee of judges will include local Economic

Development Corporations and representatives from bands currently demonstrating economic

development success.


Co-sponsored by the National Seniors Liberal Commission


33/86


30

Workshop B: Indigenous Peoples and the North

B-01 Measure to Improve the Situation of Indigenous People in Canada

Whereas it is the responsibility of every Canadian to work towards reconciliation;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada:

push for equitable funding for improving the welfare of Indigenous children in Canada; that the government look towards working with local care providers when delivering health and

welfare services to Indigenous peoples; that the welfare services seek to give special consideration to: Prioritizing the removal of parents rather than children from living arrangements, Placing Indigenous children with other Indigenous households,

Place families in foster care together, rather than separate siblings, Maintaining contact with the communities of foster children, Implementing and utilizing culturally appropriate and sensitive measures when parenting in foster

homes;

that the Liberal Party of Canada champion efforts to repeal the “spanking law” (Criminal Code ofCanada, section 43);

that the “Jordan’s Principle” be implemented; that any discussion regarding constitutional amendments include Indigenous voices from across

the country, and from a variety of nations, not merely as suggestion but as official policy;

that the federal government work with the Premiers to implement a national strategy to increaseIndigenous content and presence in grade school curriculums;

that all Liberal Party Member of Parliaments, candidates and nominees for candidacy receive

training and consultation with the APC regarding Indigenous policy, history, and culture beforereceiving the official party “Green Light”.


Co-Sponsored by the Aboriginal People’s Commission


34/86


31

B-02 Canada’s Indigenous Peoples

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada, in meaningful consultation with the Indigenous

Peoples of Canada, would:

1. Restore and expand the nation-to-nation relationship (including treaties and self-

government) between the federal government and Indigenous Peoples.

2. Enact the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission,

commencing with the:

a. implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous

Peoples,

b. implementation of recommendations 1 through 5 on Child Welfare, and

c. Immediate launching of a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous

women and girls.

3. Develop and implement legislation, programs, and appropriate funding mechanisms

(commencing with education, health, natural resources and infrastructure) that encourage

and support the advancement of sustainable First Nations communities.

4. Develop a national strategy to deal with First Nations land claims and the duty to

consult within a reasonable timeframe.

5. Ensure meaningful First Nations participation in natural resource projects carried out on

First Nations territorial lands.

6. Educate Canadians on the historical and cultural setting of Canada’s Indigenous People.

Rationale:

In a July 7th 2015 speech to the General assembly of AFN, Justin Trudeau stated that “Canadiansrecognize the urgent need for a renewed nation-to-nation relationship between the federalgovernment and Indigenous Peoples – one built on respect, rights and a commitment to end thestatus quo.” He further stated, “A Liberal government will recognize Aboriginal governments as

full partners in the federation, and will work with Indigenous Peoples to create fairness andequality of o pportunity in Canada.”



www.trc.ca/websites/trcinstitution/index.php?p=890

http://www.trc.ca/websites/trcinstitution/index.php?p=890http://www.trc.ca/websites/trcinstitution/index.php?p=890http://www.trc.ca/websites/trcinstitution/index.php?p=890


35/86


32

B-03 First Nations’ Housing

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada:

Work with design and construction experts and First Nations Communities to design and buildhousing suitable for use in First Nations communities.

Rationale:

First Nations must be involved in the development of housing for their communities based onhistoric and current cultural needs. Residents must have a vested interest in owning andmaintaining the property, receive training in how to use resources appropriately, and receivetraining in how to build and maintain the homes. Structures must be developed, situated andmaintained to be sustainable in reoccurring and extreme climate conditions.




36/86


33

B-04 First Nations "Partnerships"

Whereas first Nations have faced serious impacts on their quality of life and ability to determinetheir own futures as a consequence of European in-migration to the territory and social impactsfrom programs such as residential schools;

Whereas many First Nations have reached governance parity with the territorial governmentthanks to the Final Agreements and Self-Government Agreements;

Whereas there remains a culture of intergovernmental relations that still does not respect whatFirst Nations have achieved and the spirit and intent of the Treaties and Self-GoverningAgreements;

Whereas "consultation" has been defined from a "western" perspective, not from the FN worldview;

Whereas implementation processes has been particularly problematic and lack of resources ($sand expertise) have impaired First Nations in achieving their Self-Government goals.

Be it resolved that Canada will implement a true "government to government" relationshipthrough dialogue with First Nations and the community by leading a renewed national dialoguewith all provinces and territories on this critical national partnership.




37/86


34

B-05 Policy Resolution on Development of the Ring of Fire (RoF)

Whereas the RoF is a vast area of traditional lands and treaty territories of First Nations in Northern Ontario;

Whereas the RoF is rich in deposits of chromites, nickel and precious metals;

Whereas mining companies are committed to working in partnership with First Nations to pursueresponsible, sustainable exploration and development;

Whereas the Federal and Provincial governments have responsibilities in ensuring equitablewealth distribution, protecting the environment and defending indigenous and treaty rights;

Whereas the RoF provides opportunities for value added industrial and manufacturingdevelopment throughout Ontario and across Canada.

Be it resolved that the Federal Liberal party acknowledges First Nations traditional land uses asan opportunity for them to share in the exploration, planning, development and ownership ofRoF projects;

Be it further resolved that successful development of the RoF requires cooperative leadership bya federal team working with First Nations, provincial government and mining industry;

Be it further resolved that social license requires environmental studies, assessments and

planning on a broad regional basis, in consultation with and in support of First Nations, includingdownstream communities;

Be it further resolved that provincial and federal infrastructure funds are required fortransportation, communication and sustainable energy, to be delivered in planned development phases;

Be it further resolved that funds and support towards education, housing, health services, potablewater and social programs will prepare the skilled, secure workforce required for development ofthe RoF, tourism and other industries.

(248 words) Aboriginal People’ s Commission of Canada


38/86


35

B-06 Governor General Indigenous Inclusion

Whereas it is acknowledged the appointment of the role of Governor General is appointed by thePrime Minister

Whereas it has also been traditional to rotate the Governor General appointment betweenAnglophone and Francophone

Whereas the Liberal Party of Canada has agreed to implement the United Nations Declaration ofRights of Indigenous Peoples’ including rights to governance

Whereas the Liberal Party of Canada has agreed to implement the Truth and Reconciliation

Commissions’ calls to action

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada will rotate the appointment of the role of theGovernor General between Anglophone, Francophone and Indigenous.



39/86


36

B-07 Indigenous Definition Equally Inclusive of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis

Whereas the Government of Canada has a long history of excluding the Métis people from beingfully recognized and included as one of the Indigenous Peoples of Canada.

Whereas the Métis people advocated, at length, to ensure their inclusion in the Constitution ofCanada under Section 35(2), which reads, “In this Act, ‘aboriginal peoples of Canada’ includes

the Indian, Inuit and Métis peoples of Canada.”

Whereas many Métis people are concerned that any changes in language when referring to the“Aboriginal peoples of Canada”, no matter how well intentioned, may subsequently be used to

once again exclude the Métis from full inclusion as an Aboriginal people.

Be it resolved that any reference to “Indigenous”, “Indigenous people”, or any other suchlanguage employed by the Government of Canada, or the Liberal Party of Canada, to replace orupdate the term “Aboriginal”, or any such subsequent term, shall retain the meaning and intent ofthe definition, as stated in Section 35(2) of the Canadian Constitution, to equally include all theIndian (First Nations), Inuit, and Métis peoples of Canada.



40/86


37

B-08 A Resolution for the Development of a First Nations Governance Law

Whereas the current Indian Act is silent on Conflict of Interest and Code of Ethics for electedFirst Nations Chiefs and Councils as defined in the Indian Act.

Whereas the current Indian Act and the First Nations Finance Transparency Act is weak inaddressing accountability of elected First Nations Chiefs and Councils to their membership.

Whereas the current process of addressing the governance issues on the conduct of First NationsChiefs and Councils is a very costly and timely burden to First Nations as well as to theGovernment of Canada.

Whereas on matters relating to the breach of Conflict of Interest and Code of Ethics membershipare uninformed on each occurrence.

Whereas First Nations Chiefs and Councils are void of holding Annual General Meeting ofmembership to present the Financial Audited Statements and an Annual Program Report.

Whereas the feeling of helplessness among First Nations members compounds the social problems in First Nations communities.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada acknowledges the reaching out for help from First Nations members.

Be it further resolved the Liberal Party of Canada will convene a study within its first term asgovernment that includes Indigenous organizations and members from communities on thedevelopment of a new Governance Law for First Nations.



41/86


38

B-09 Immediate repeal needed to Bill C-51

Whereas the United Nations Human Rights Committee reviewed Canada’s adherence to theInternational Covenant on Civil and Political Rights found that sweeping powers contained in thenew anti-terror bill, C51, may not contain enough legal safeguards to protect people’s rights.

Whereas the United Nations Human Rights Committee explained Canada should refrain fromadopting legislation that imposes undue restrictions on the exercise of rights under the Covenant.

Whereas the United Nations Human Rights Committee explained the Canadian governmentshould ensure legislation complies, impose better safeguards so information-sharing doesn’t leadto human rights abuses and put in place oversight mechanisms for security and intelligence

agencies, including the 5 Eyes Alliance.

Whereas the Liberal Party of Canada has agreed to implement the United Nations Declaration onthe Rights of Indigenous peoples’.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada will immediately repeal C51 to safeguard all peoples’ rights.

Be it further resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada will repeal any data mining in the 5 EyesAlliance that is not in compliance with the United Nations Declaration of Rights of Indigenous peoples’.

(186 words) Aboriginal People’s Commission o f Canada


42/86


39

B-10 Acting on Indigenous Youth Suicide Prevention

Whereas the Liberal Party of Canada has previously committed, through policy resolutions, to pursuing proper and adequate mental health care strategies;

Whereas Canada’s Minister of Health, Jane Philpott, and the Provincial Health Ministers haveagreed to the need to tackle mental health issues, funding, and access, AND WHEREAS mentalhealth issues impact 20% of Canadians during their lifetime,

Whereas suicide is the major cause of death amongst Canadians aged 15-24 and is typicallyinterconnected with mental health issues

Whereas Health Canada research highlights that suicide rates amongst First Nations youth is 5-7

times, and Inuit youth is 11 times, the national average, compared to that of non-Indigenousyouth,

Whereas the community of Pimicikamak Cree Nation, like many other Indigenous communities,have declared a state of emergency; with Pimicikamak Cree Nation dealing with six suicides inthe last two months and over 140 attempts in the last two weeks alone,

Whereas the situations facing Indigenous youth are not only mental health related, but alsoreflective of Canada’s colonial history and dismantling of Indigenous cultures, languages, andway of life,

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada work with Indigenous communities,organizations, and nations on ways to begin healing, reconciling, as well as implementing mentalhealth and suicide prevention strategies

Be it further resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada continue to work with Indigenouscommunities, organizations, and nations to restore and assist with the re-establishment ofIndigenous cultures, languages, and ways of life.



43/86


40

B-11 Policy on Official Languages

Whereas the United Nations recognizes that cultural diversity is as necessary for humankind as biodiversity is for nature and it is generally accepted that language is an integral part of culturalidentity.

Whereas Article 13 of the United Nations’ Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples(UNDRIP) stipulates that States are required to take effective measures to protect the rights ofIndigenous people to use, develop and pass on to future generations their languages. And Article14 that Indigenous people have the right to establish and control their educational systems andinstitutions providing education in their own languages.

Whereas Indigenous treaty rights are entrenched in the Constitution of Canada and Official

Languages Act for Nunavut recognizes the Inuit (Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun), English and Frenchlanguages as the official languages within the territory.

Whereas Indigenous languages are not given the same federal protection as guaranteed otherminority languages by section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights.

Whereas the land and borders that Canada is situated within and upon are the traditionalterritories and homelands of many Indigenous nations whom have formulated treaties with theCrown and Canada that laid the groundwork for Canada’s formation

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party endorse Canada becoming a signatory of UNDRIP.

Be it further resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada will support efforts for Canada to grantofficial-language status to Canada's Aboriginal languages and to provide the necessary fundingfor preservation and revitalization efforts.



44/86


41

B-12 Policy: NIHB – First Nations and Inuit Health Equality

Whereas First Nations have formulated treaties with the Crown and Canada that includedfiduciary responsibilities, such as health care insurance equal to that of Canadians.

Whereas Inuit peoples have concluded a comprehensive land claim, which provides for fullhealth care insurance.

Whereas the health of Indigenous peoples in terms of qualitative and quantitative standards isstatistically much poorer than that of the Canada population.

Whereas the Liberal government has stated the relationship between Canada and Indigenous peoples is of high priority and importance.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada support a review of the process, treatment andaccessibility of Health Care, including non-insured benefits such as dental, optical and pharmaceutical, to assess gaps or inequalities that First Nation and Inuit peoples encounter.

Be it further resolved the Liberal Party of Canada urge the government to provide Non-InsuredHealth Benefits equal to that as provided by private insurance providers.

Be it further resolved the Liberal Party of Canada enacts legislation requiring dentists,optometrists, pharmacists and other health care services to accept the Indian Status Card and NTICard as an upfront way of paying for services rendered.

Be it further resolved the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to provide anadministrative overview of the process of pay for above mentioned services and direct thegovernment to develop a modern system for easy user and business friendly payment.

(240 words ) Aboriginal People’s Commission of Canada


45/86


42

B-13 Social Policy for the North

Whereas the north faces substantial challenges in many areas of society: mental health; earlychildhood development; reductions in programming for youth; affordability of living for many insociety, including seniors and many families; effects of residential schools on Aboriginalfamilies.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the government of Canada to ensure social programs designed for youth, people with disabilities that have been eliminated or reducedduring the previous government need to be reviewed and reinstated in partnership with Yukon inorder to established funding priorities with community inputs.



46/86


43

B-14 Energy – Northern Initiatives

Whereas nowhere more than the north is energy critical to sustain northern communities andindustry.

Whereas there is a very high reliance on hydrocarbon-based fuels to provide energy today.

Whereas the renewable sources of energy for heating and light have reached full capacity.

Whereas Yukon offers opportunities for the establishment of new technologies.

Whereas Yukon's geographical and climatological aspects are conducive to development ofenergy sources like solar.

Whereas pursuing a "greener" lifestyle is both environmentally sound and increases quality oflife.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada will assist Yukon in the development ofappropriate incentives to move our local energy production to adopt effective technology inorder to reduce environmental damage.



47/86


44

Workshop C: Education, Justice and Democratic Reform

C-01 Improving the Prevention, Reporting, and Prosecuting of Sexual Assault

Whereas approximately 460,000 sexual assaults occur in Canada each year;

Whereas out of every 1,000, it is estimated that 997 assailants walk free; 12 see charges laid; sixare prosecuted, and just three lead to conviction;

Whereas the costs are estimated in the billions of dollars: costs to government to meet the needsof victims and offenders through social and criminal justice services; to victims and theirfamilies, who are often faced with loss of earnings and out-of-pocket expenses related to theirhealth and well-being; and to employers for decreased productivity and lost revenue;

Whereas Regina v. Ghomeshi (2016) elicited widespread concern for how survivors may becross-examined without appropriate recognition of post sexual assault trauma, and that “theadversarial model presently in place is "structurally ill-suited to deal with sexual assault cases;

and

Whereas the Mandate Letter of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General includes as priorities to “toughen criminal laws and bail conditions in cases of domestic assault” and

“undertake modernization efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the criminal

justice system;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada call upon the Government of Canada to appoint a panel to consult widely and to recommend how to improve prevention, reporting, and prosecution of sexual assault by considering a range of changes, such as:

improved public, legal, judicial, and police training and education;

better support services for survivors;

new reporting mechanisms;

restorative justice approaches;

a requirement that both the accused and the victim testify; and,

Specialized sexual assault courts.

(263 Words) National Women’s Liberal Commission


48/86


45

C-02 Restoration of Funding to Women’s Advocacy Groups

Whereas the closure of the Canadian Advisory Council on the Status of Women in 1995, and the

demise of the National Action Committee on the Status of Women subsequently, deprived Canada

of two of its premier feminist research organizations;

Whereas the Conservative Government under Prime Minister Stephen Harper cut funding for

advocacy purposes to women's NGO's operating both in Canada and internationally to advance

women's equality and better their living conditions;

Whereas the gap between rich and poor in Canada, and the gender gap between men and women

specifically, have been widening in recent years;

Whereas Canada ranks only 30th on the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report

2015;

Whereas an internal report at Status of Women Canada in February 2015 acknowledged that

Canada is falling behind other countries in the developed world on such matters as poverty rates

for elderly single women, lack of support for childcare, and lack of fair representation of women

in Parliament;

Whereas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has given solid commitments to advancing women’s

equality; and

Whereas leading women’s groups in March 2016 publicly requested support for a new

mechanism to facilitate coordination amongst the hundreds of equality-seeking groups doing

valuable work, including advocacy, across Canada;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the Government of Canada to restore

funding for advocacy to women’s equality-seeking groups across Canada; and, explore a newmechanism for promoting coordination amongst these groups and for funding necessary research

and outreach.



49/86


46

C-03 Promoting a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence

Whereas the Government of Canada has a constitutional responsibi lity for “peace, order andgood government” (British North America Act, 1867, Article 91), making the federalgovernment’s pursuit of peace an obligation, not an option;

Whereas Canada is a member of the United Nations (UN), which was founded “to savesucceeding generations from the scourge of war” (Charter of the United Nations, preamble);

Whereas peace can prevail and endure only if we create institutions dedicated to promoting “a

culture of peace and non-violence” (UNESCO, Manifesto 2000) in a society determined to useforce only as an absolutely last resort; and

Whereas this process of institutionalizing peace could include the establishment of peacecommittees, departments, and programs at all levels of government;

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the Government of Canada to establish aDepartment or Ministry of Peace and Non-Violence, with a mandate that includes the creation ofa permanent Canadian Civilian Service of professionally trained men and women working for (i)the prevention of violent conflict and war, and (ii) the non-violent resolution of conflict, at everylevel of society, both within Canada and overseas, through such means as:

detection of early warning signs structured mediation non-violent intervention citizen diplomacy protection of human rights, and Humanitarian and development assistance.

(214 Words) National Women’s Liberal Commission


50/86


47

C-04 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Whereas the PNP is a collaborative and cooperative effort between the federal government andother provinces of Canada;

Whereas the PNP is conducted against fundamental criteria designed for Canadian immigration;

Whereas the PNP provides for varying degrees of autonomy for provincial engagement inimmigration;

Whereas provinces of Canada can utilize the PNP to facilitate provincial population growth

strategies, quicker access to skilled workers shortages, international graduates who have post-graduate job offers from provincial employers and significant investment from candidates whohave signaled a genuine interest in immigrating to respective areas of Canada;

Whereas the PNP has experienced a significant degree of variance in application among provinces, which has led to underutilization and dysfunctional application; and

Whereas a national generic and streamlined approach can bring vastly improved functionality tothe PNP.

Be it resolved the Liberal governments of Canada take immediate steps to work with all

provinces and territories to streamline and harmonize the PNP; and

Be it further resolved the Liberal government of Canada take proactive steps, in concert with provinces and territories, to prioritize the PNP as a key instrument of national immigration,which is linked to skills gaps, investment strategies and overall population growth strategy acrossall regions of Canada.

(200 words) Liberal Party of Canada (Newfoundland and Labrador)


51/86


48

C-05 Reducing the Voting Age

Whereas early engagement in civic affairs is believed to lead to the establishment of a pattern ofengagement that endures throughout life;

Whereas by the age of 16, Canadian citizens are legally permitted to be employed on a full-time basis, to pay employment insurance and Canada Pension Plan premiums, and to be married withor without parental consent;

Whereas by the age of 16, Canadian citizens are legally permitted to enroll in the CanadianReserves and at age 17 can enlist in the Canadian Armed Forces;

Whereas by the age of 16, Canadian citizens may apply for a license to operate a motor vehicle

on a public highway;

Whereas by the age of 16, Canadian citizens may, if appropriate, be tried as adults for offencesunder the Criminal Code;

Whereas given the foregoing, there is no justifiable reason for the continued exclusion ofCanadian citizens aged 16 or older but less than 18 years from full participation in the electoral process;

Be it resolved that the Cumberland Colchester Federal Liberal Association (the Association)calls upon the Liberal Party of Canada to adopt as a policy that the age for eligibility of a

Canadian citizen to be an elector in future federal elections, beginning in 2019, be lowered fromeighteen (18) years to sixteen (16) years.

Be it further resolved that the age to stand as a candidate remain eighteen (18) years.

Be it further resolved that the Association calls upon the Liberal Party of Canada to promotecompulsory secondary school education in the area of civics and political organization directedat informing future electors of the basic mechanisms by which our parliamentary democracyworks, and in particular addressing such topics as comparative electoral methods, division ofconstitutional powers (ss. 91 and 92 of the Constitution Act 1867 ), the role of parliament, thegovernment and the judiciary.



52/86


49

C-06 Improving Access to Justice for all Canadians

Whereas equal access to the justice system is essential to Canadian democracy;

Whereas a report by the Canadian Bar Association found that middle and lower income Canadians arefinding it increasingly difficult to properly access Canada's justice system due, in part, to the high cost oflegal representation;

Whereas research for the Department of Justice found that the legal difficulties of economically-disadvantaged Canadians often create further socio-economic and health problems for these individuals;

Whereasthe federal government's funding for legal aid has decreased significantly over the past 25 years;

Whereas provincial and territorial justice ministers have unanimously called for increased federal fundingfor legal aid.

Be it resolved that the Liberal Party of Canada ask the Canadian Government to: increase the federal government's contributions to legal aid funding; increase the access of legal aid to the middle class by increasing the financial eligibility; establish a dedicated civil legal aid contribution, in consultation with provinces and territories; take a leadership role in supporting innovative approaches to improving access to justice for

Canadians.



53/86


50

C-07 Canada and a Nuclear-Weapon-Free World

Whereas there are still at least 17,000 nuclear weapons in the world, who’s very existenceconstitutes an unprecedented threat to the continuation of life on Earth as we know it;

Whereas nuclear weapons are the only weapons of mass destruction not yet banned byinternational agreement;

Whereas as a member of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)(1970),Canada has an international treaty obligation “to pursue negotiations” for the total elimination ofnuclear weapons

Documents

2016 Liberal Policy Resolutions