What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

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Oral Questions

Canadian Identity and Culture

A debate on culture funding, where the Bloc accused the Liberals of capitulating to U.S. demands by letting streaming platforms like Netflix avoid paying into Canadian culture funds. The Bloc called this a betrayal of Quebec culture. The Liberals defended their record, citing hundreds of millions in new arts spending. There was partisan sniping but the core issue was a serious one about protecting Canadian culture from being overrun by foreign media giants who don't fund it.

Official Hansard ↗

Hon. Steven MacKinnon

Liberal
“Don't listen to the Bloc. They don't care about culture. Look at the economy instead! Lots of jobs for young people in Quebec. Good job everyone.”
Our translation 75% shorter

Madeleine Chenette

Liberal
“Unlike the Bloc, we Liberals really do care about culture. Look, we spent $600 million on it! And another $95 million to promote it in 120 markets! That means we're good for Quebec culture.”
Our translation 65% shorter

David Myles

Liberal
“I want you to be happy about a $600 million government spending announcement. Don't question whether it fixes the real problem. Focus on the big number and be grateful.”
Our translation 45% shorter