What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

Recent debates

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Oral Questions

Indigenous Affairs

A debate about private property rights being threatened by recent court rulings and government agreements related to Indigenous land claims. The Conservatives accused the Liberal government of not adequately defending property rights and creating economic uncertainty. The Liberals argued they do support property rights and are appealing a key court decision. Much back-and-forth sparring but little substance beyond talking points.

Official Hansard ↗

Hon. Rebecca Alty

Liberal
“We think you're wrong. We're fighting your lawsuit. We're going to keep spending your money on lawyers. The courts will sort it out. Stop asking me questions about it here.”
Our translation 66% shorter

Hon. Sean Fraser

Liberal
“We believe in private property. But we also believe in reconciliation. We're definitely committed to both. Don't say we're not. We've been working on this since 2017. We'll protect property rights. But also fix things with indigenous people. We can do two things. I'm saying words but not really saying anything specific.”
Our translation 56% shorter

Hon. Rebecca Alty

Liberal
“I want everyone to think these Musqueam agreements are no big deal. They don't affect private property, so don't worry about it. They're just about a few specific rights and working together with the first nation. It's all good, people should just accept it. And that guy should read the agreements.”
Our translation 49% shorter

Taleeb Noormohamed

Liberal
“I want people to think we're defending property rights. The Prime Minister said so. Pay no attention to what our lawyers actually do. The opposition is fearmongering and we're the good guys. Believe us, not them.”
Our translation 69% shorter