What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

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The House debated the impact on private property of the legal uncertainty created by the Cowichan Tribes v Canada court decision. Conservatives accused the Liberals of failing to swiftly and robustly appeal the ruling, contributing to public anxiety and economic disruption in B.C. Liberals argued they have taken appropriate steps to defend private property rights and accused Conservatives of sowing misinformation. Much of this debate was taken up by efforts to clarify and distinguish the positions of the two main parties on the issue, rather than concretely advancing the topic.

Official Hansard ↗

Parm Bains

Liberal
“Those people weren't perfect either. They sat around and didn't tell anyone. Now they try to make it an issue. They say things that don't match. This is all to make them look bad for bringing it up.”
Our translation 71% shorter

Parm Bains

Liberal
“I already said the federal government went to court in 2017 to notify residents. The Prime Minister answered a question to take responsibility and say the federal government won't negotiate private property rights.”
Our translation 52% shorter

Hon. Kevin Lamoureux

Liberal
“I'm quoting the Prime Minister talking about federal agreements. He said they protect private property rights and indigenous rights. The Prime Minister was clear, so I'm asking you to agree with that quote.”
Our translation 51% shorter

Parm Bains

Liberal
“I want voters to think the Prime Minister will protect them. I'm saying this is on the provinces.”
Our translation 75% shorter

Wade Grant

Liberal
“I don't like that you blamed us for failing to negotiate a treaty with the Cowichan Tribes. I want to shift the blame to the previous Conservative government in 2014 instead. I'm changing the topic to avoid your point that we are causing uncertainty by failing to protect property rights.”
Our translation 55% shorter