Report From Parliament Hill

Eric Melillo, MP, Kenora—Kiiwetinoong

Dear Constituents

Over the past year, Conservatives have been clear about one thing: Canada desperately needs to take back control of its future. In the face of unjust tariffs, global uncertainty and economic hardship at home, Canadians deserve a government that will secure our economic sovereignty. This is why we supported Bill C-5 which gave the government the power to quickly approve major projects. It’s also why we’ve been pushing for a Canadian Sovereignty Act – legislation that is designed to protect Canadian economic independence, strengthen and defend our industries, and keep money in the wallets of Canadians coast-to-coast.
Sovereignty isn’t only about a strong border or national pride. It’s also about Canada having the ability to build, produce and manufacture crucial goods here at home. We’re ready to work with the Prime Minister and the Liberal government to make this a reality and the Canadian Sovereignty Act would begin by repealing the industrial carbon tax, rewarding investment, and removing unnecessary bureaucracy.
We are also calling for the prioritization of construction on a permanent road to the Ring of Fire. The Ring of Fire has untapped potential for northern Ontario and all of Canada and this project has been talked about for years— with no action. We must develop our critical minerals both for economic growth and our own sovereignty. We must also unlock our oil by fast-tracking a pipeline to tidewater, which will open Canada to a more diverse trade market. Right now, Bills C-69 and C-48 essentially make it impossible to build pipelines and mines, which is why the removal of these anti-development laws are included in our proposal.
Further, my colleagues and I will continue to push for the removal of interprovincial trade barriers. According to a recent IMF study, Canada’s economy could grow by a whopping 7% - $210 billion in real GDP - over time by fully and completely removing internal trade barriers. These barriers amount to roughly a 9% tariff – and in times like these, we could use as few tariffs as possible. Conservatives will offer a “Free Trade Bonus” to provinces who open their markets to other provinces and tear down these barriers that hurt Canadians.
Despite the Prime Minister’s rhetoric about wanting to support our economy, the Liberals voted against our Sovereignty Act motion. This is a disappointing setback for our economic resilience. Conservatives are hopeful the government will choose to work with us to protect Canadian sovereignty.  
Working for You
If you’re visiting Ottawa and would like to take a tour of Parliament, please get in touch. My office would be happy to help you reserve tour tickets.
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please call me at 807-223-2182 (Dryden) or 807-468-2170 (Kenora) or email me at [email protected].

Sincerely, 
Eric Melillo 
Member of Parliament 
Kenora—Kiiwetinoong