Linked statement

“It is too hard for young people in Canada to have children today. Housing and jobs cost too much, and the rules for parental leave are too rigid. I want life to be more affordable so more people can start families.”

“Mr. Speaker, the last few times my wife and I have announced that we were expecting, we got a lot of congratulations, but there were always a few people who said it must be nice. They are happy for us but sad about the fact that their own family goals have not been realized. These comments reflect how Canada is becoming a more and more challenging place to start and grow a family. My wife and I started our careers and bought our first home before 2015. It was a different time. Today, homes and jobs are out of reach for too many young people. A rigid parental leave system makes it more difficult to integrate work and family life, and this contributes to the fact that fewer Canadians are reaching their family goals. While I would like to encourage young couples to just go for it, I understand that many see their family formation aspirations blocked at every turn. As my wife and I prepare to welcome our seventh child, we are committed to continuing this fight for the next generation of families so that life is affordable, leave is flexible and the sublime joy of parenthood is available to all.”