Speaker: The Honourable Francis Scarpaleggia
October 23, 2026
Canada’s National Strategy on Flood and Drought Forecasting Act bill is moving to a vote after Third Reading in Parliament.
OFFICIAL REPORT (HANSARD)
“Tatiana Auguste (Terrebonne, Lib.):
Madam Speaker, I would like to thank all my colleagues who took part in the debate on this bill at each reading and in committee. When we introduce a bill in the House, we do it because we have an idea, a belief and, above all, a desire to make things better. However, as the parliamentary process unfolds, we learn something fundamental: No legislative initiative moves forward on its own. Every bill involves discussions, research, evidence, sometimes difficult questions and, most importantly, people who choose to put their expertise to work for the common good. That is precisely what I saw as Bill C-241 made its way through the legislative process.
As that process comes to an end today, I want to take a moment to recognize the work that has been done and the contributions that have helped to move this initiative forward. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Professor John Pomeroy of the University of Saskatchewan. His expertise and contributions helped inform our thinking and improved our understanding of the opportunities available to Canada to strengthen its forecasting capabilities. His involvement underscores the importance of dialogue between the scientific community and public decision-makers, because scientific knowledge is especially valuable when it can help inform decisions that directly affect Canadians’ lives …. Bill C-241 … encourages us to look at how we can capitalize on existing knowledge, skills and resources to improve flood and drought forecasting in Canada. It also encourages us to consider how all of the provinces and territories could work together and truly put each one’s knowledge to good use. It proposes an approach based on assessing needs, consulting with relevant partners and improving coordination. Most importantly, it reminds us that the decisions we make today must also take into account the needs of tomorrow. As I see it, Bill C‑241, is not the end of the road, but the beginning of a journey.”