2016 conservative policy resolutions

8/16/2019 2016 Conservative Policy Resolutions

1/32

National Policy CommitteeConvention Package


2/32

Role of Government, Environment and Economic Development

Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 01 – 299EDA(s) – St. Albert - EdmontonSection C - Democratic Reform #10 Electoral Reform (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes the discussion of possible changes to the electoral system is valuable in ahealthy democracy.

In reviewing options for electoral reform, we believe the government should not endorse any new electoralsystem that will weaken the link between Members of Parliament and their constituents, that will createunmanageably large ridings, or that will strengthen the control of the party machinery over individual Membersof Parliament.

A national referendum must be held prior to implementing any future electoral reform proposal.

The publicly-funded annual payment to federal political parties of $1.95 per vote received in the previousfederal election should be cancelled immediately and. There should be no additional public funding of federal

political parties beyond that contained in the Elections Canada Act.Conservative Convention 2016 Congrès Conservateur

Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 02 – 301EDA(s) – St. Albert - EdmontonSection E - Fiscal #19 Debt Repayment (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes the government should continue to pay down the national debt, thus reducingthe interest payment which is the single largest federal budgetary commitment.

We support the introduction of a debt repayment plan with the main part of budget surplus being allocated todebt repayment, in order to have a debt-to-GDP ratio well under 20% as soon as possible, thus having greaterexibility to deal with the scal pressure coming from the aging of the Canadian population in order to achieve

a declining debt-to-GDP ratio.

Conservative Convention 2016 Congrès Conservateur

Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 03 – 736EDA(s) – Vancouver CentreSection H – Transportation - Increasing Airline Choice For Canadians (NEW)

In close partnership with provincial/territorial governments, airport authorities across the country, andindustry partners, the Conservative Party will both introduce & actively promote a new framework forincreased domestic & foreign airline competition in Canada, including experimentation with cabotage on a trialbasis on select routes.



3/32

Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 04 – 306EDA(s) – Calgary CentreSection – G - TRADE #43 INTER-PROVINCIAL TRADE (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes that the government must take the lead with its provincial partners toeliminate inter-provincial trade barriers in transportation, commerce, labour, and capital mobility. We recognizeand support that professional certi cation obtained through a recognized certi cation process in one provinceor territory shall entitle that person to work in their profession in any other province or territory. Further

the Conservative Party of Canada supports and encourages cooperation between provinces toward thestandardization of certi cation processes.

The Conservative Par ty of Canada believes that the inef ciency and economic constraints posed byinterprovincial trade barriers should be eliminated to as full extent as possible. We believe that free tradeprinciples should apply to all sectors of the economy.

We believe the government should take the lead with its provincial partners, especially to modernize andeliminate inter-provincial trade barriers in transportation, commerce, labour, and capital mobility.

The Conservative Party of Canada supports and encourages cooperation between provinces toward thestandardization of certi cation processes. If interprovincial harmonization is not possible, we recognize andsupport that professional certi cation obtained through a recognized certi cation process in one province orterritory shall entitle that person to work in their profession in any other province or territory.

We believe that the federal government should work with the provinces and territories to modernize theAgreement on Internal Trade in accordance with international trade agreements, including a national disputeresolution process.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 05 – 636EDA(s) – Parkdale – High Park, Fort McMurray – Cold LakeSection – E – FISCAL - #22 Tax Reform (NEW)

*Proposed new section, this policy does not replace the existing section 22.

We believe that the Canadian economy will bene t from a thorough review of the federal tax structure.Prominent Canadian economists have noted that the current tax structure — with its high emphasis on directtaxes such as the personal and corporate income taxes — distorts the market reality and may limit real GDPgrowth. Modifying the tax structure will spur growth and economic dynamism, and better enable Canada tocompete in the global marketplace.

The Conservative Party believes that it should consult with Canadians and leading Canadian economists todetermine the optimal balance of taxation. The resulting modi cation to the tax structure should be subject tothe following principles:

1. Reduces the tax burden on low-income Canadians and supports social mobility. 2. Places a clear emphasis on economic prosperity by minimizing market distortions.

3. Does not increase the total federal tax burden on Canadians.


4/32

Adhering to these principles ensures that a future tax structure will better serve the needs of every-dayCanadians while improving market competition.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 06 – 721EDA(s) - GranvilleSection - C – Democratic Reform #13 Property Rights (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes the government should seek the agreement of the provinces to amend theConstitution to include this right, as well as guarantee that no person shall be deprived of their just rightwithout the due process of law and full, just, and timely compensation.

We believe the government should enact legislation to ensure that full, just and timely compensation will bepaid to all persons who are deprived of personal or private property as a result of any federal governmentinitiative, policy, process, regulation or legislation such action being hereinafter called a “Taking”.

We believe that the government should enact legislation that ensures that any proposed federal regulation,legislation or other action that affects or may affect the use or value of private property (“Action”) shouldbe subject to a Takings analysis. This analysis must identify any alternatives to reduce the impact on privateproperty and a statement whether the Action poses a risk of nancial exposure for the federal government fora Taking, this risk must be quanti ed as a dollar estimate.”


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 07 – 309EDA(s) – Edmonton WestSection – I - Environment #47 Environmental Principles (MODIFICATION)

In order to have a strong economy and maintain good health, Canada must have strong, coordinated andachievable environmental policies. The Conservative Party believes that responsible exploration, development,conservation and renewal of our environment are vital to our continued well-being as a nation and asindividuals.

We believe that it is the responsibility of government to ensure that the sometimes competing values ofpreserving the environment and creating jobs are maintained in proper balance.

We believe that all environment and energy initiatives should be reviewed.

We believe that an effective international emissions reduction regime on climate change must be truly global

and must include binding targets for all the world’s major emitters, including China and the United States.

We believe that Canada should create a program to heighten public awareness to the economic bene ts ofenvironmental solutions which minimize the waste of resources.We believe that Canada should establish a program of tax credits to promote environmental solutions in theareas of transportation and entrepreneurial innovation, among others.

We believe that the federal and territorial governments should make joint investments to study and addressclimate change adaptation in the North.


5/32

We believe in the principles of conservation and stewardship of renewable resources.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 08 – 495EDA(s) – Renfrew – Nipissing - PembrokeSection - I - ENVIRONMENT #48. Clean Air and Greenhouse Gas Smog Reductions (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports legislated emissions caps to ght reduce smog-causing air pollutants such asnitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide, volatile organic compounds, ground level ozone and particulate matter. , andsupports the initiative to cut air pollution from industry in half by 2015.

We support the mandatory renewable fuel content in gasoline requirement and support more stringentautomobile vehicle fuel ef ciency and exhaust emission standards.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 09 – 551EDA(s) – Cowichan – Malahat - LangfordSection - I – Environment #47 - Environmental Principles (MODIFICATION)




We believe that an effective international emissions reduction regime on climate change must be truly globaland must include binding targets for all the world’s major emitters, including China and the United States.

We believe that Canada should create a program to heighten public awareness to the economic bene ts ofenvironmental solutions which minimize the waste of resources.

We believe that Canada should establish a program of tax credits to promote environmental solutions in theareas of transportation and entrepreneurial innovation, among others.


We believe that Canada should not be unfairly disadvantaged in any future environmental agreements.



6/32

Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 10 – 565EDA(s) – St. Johns South – Mount PearlSection - S-Fisheries - Vessel Safety (NEW)

Fishing vessels should be built with safety as priority and regulated on capacity rather than boat length.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 11 – 567EDA(s) – St. Johns South – Mount PearlSection - S-Fisheries - Fisheries Aquaculture (NEW)

The Conservative Party encourages the government to work cooperatively with the provinces and territoriesin all regions of the country to develop an Aquaculture Development Framework for sustainable managementwhich provides an alternative to the reliance on shing wild stocks and growing species which can beprocessed locally into value added product.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 12 – 656EDA(s) – Selkirk – Interlake - EastmanSection – E – Fiscal #21 Tax Relief (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports both immediate and long-term broad based tax relief. Reducing personalincome taxes is a priority for the Conservative Party because it increases the take home pay and raises theliving standard of all Canadians. We encourage the government to continue the process of reducing businesstaxes. Reducing business taxes encourages both foreign and domestic businesses to invest in Canada, meaningmore and better jobs for Canadian workers. Lower business taxes mean more jobs as well as greater returnsfor pension plan members and those who own RRSPs, mutual funds and common shares. We believe thatgovernment should reduce capital gains tax and eliminate tax and eliminate tax on capital gains that arereinvested. Lower capital gains taxes encourage saving and investment which means more capital for Canadianbusinesses more jobs for Canadian workers and bigger returns for Canadian investors. Therefore, we supportnew measures in which the lifetime capital gains exemption for small business owners, farmers, wood lotoperators and shermen were increased. We believe that payroll taxes should not exceed the amountnecessary to properly fund Employment Insurance because unnecessarily high payroll taxes are a tax on jobcreation. Lower payroll taxes encourage hiring and business expansion. Canada s tax system must be builton a foundation of fairness. In this regard, we encourage the government to continue to close loopholes suchas the use of offshore tax havens which erode the Canadian tax base and allow companies to avoid payingCanadian taxes. The Conservative Party supports the concept that all taxation must be fair and be reasonable.The government should work to eliminate instances of taxation on taxation. We encourage the Conservative

Party to move to a less progressive tax system by reducing the number of personal income tax brackets.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 13 – 694EDA(s) – Selkirk – Interlake - EastmanSection – Rural Canada #113 Rural Principles

Rural Canada plays an essential role in Canada’s economic and social fabric, contributing approximately 15%


7/32

of Canada’s GDP and 40% of our exports. The Conservative Party supports believes that agriculture, agri-food, sheries, mining, tourism, and forestry - the sectors that sustain Canada’s rural communities - must be apriority for the federal government.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 14 – 790EDA(s) – Lac-Saint-LouisSection – E – Fiscal #21 Tax Relief (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports both immediate and long-term broad-based tax relief. Reducing personalincome taxes is a priority for the Conservative Party because it increases the take-home pay and raises theliving standard of all Canadians.

We encourage the government to continue the process of reducing business taxes. Reducing business taxesencourages both foreign and domestic businesses to invest in Canada, meaning more and better jobs forCanadian workers. Lower business taxes mean more jobs as well as greater returns for pension plan membersand those who own RRSPs, mutual funds and common shares.

We believe that government should reduce capital gains tax and eliminate tax on capital gains that arereinvested. Lower capital gains taxes encourage saving and investment which means more capital for Canadianbusinesses, more jobs for Canadian workers and bigger returns for Canadian investors. Therefore, we supportnew measures in which the lifetime capital gains exemption for small business owners, farmers, wood-lotoperators, and shermen were increased.

We believe that payroll taxes should not exceed the amount necessary to properly fund EmploymentInsurance because unnecessarily high payroll taxes are a tax on job creation. Lower payroll taxes encouragehiring and business expansion.

Canada’s tax system must be built on a foundation of fairness. In this regard, we encourage the governmentto continue to close loopholes such as the use of offshore tax havens which erode the Canadian tax base andallow companies to avoid paying Canadian taxes. The Conservative Party supports the concept that all taxationmust be fair and be reasonable. The government should work to eliminate instances of taxation on taxation.

We encourage the Conservative Party to move to a less progressive tax system by reducing the number ofpersonal income tax brackets.

The Conservative Party recognizes the dif culties that young workers and entrepreneurs face in an increasinglycompetitive labour market and will support them with measures potentially including but not limited todeferred taxation mechanisms, the option of a cumulative basic personal exemption that may be used in the

rst years of work and an RRSP withdrawal to invest in a rst new small business along the same lines as therst time home buyer’s plan.



8/32

Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 15 – 846EDA(s) – South Shore – St. MargaretsSection – F –Economic Development #40 - Long-Term Energy Framework (NEW)

We believe the government should support and encourage the private development of the Energy Eastpipeline. In 2013, Canada was forced to import 634,000+ barrels of oil every single day, or 42.8% of the oilCanadians used. This was imported from foreign countries at world prices, while we exported oil producedin Canada to the USA at discounted prices. The Energy East pipeline will replace our dependence on foreign

crude with Canadian crude to be re ned in Canadian re neries. The $26 billion Canada spent purchasingforeign crude in 2013 would remain in Canada to create jobs for Canadians, taxes and royalties to fundhealthcare, education, and prosperity for all Canadians.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 16 – 867EDA(s) – Battlefords - Lloydminster Section -I - Environment #47 Environmental Principles (NEW)




We believe that an effective international emissions reduction regime on climate change must be truly global

and must include binding targets for all the world’s major emitters, including China and the United States.

We believe that Canada should create a program to heighten public awareness to the economic bene ts ofenvironmental solutions which minimize the waste of resources.

We believe that Canada should establish a program of tax credits to promote environmental solutions in theareas of transportation and entrepreneurial innovation, among others.


We believe in providing Canadians with the best air quality, water quality and food quality in the world.

We believe in encouraging municipal drinking water to be free of heavy metals, organic matterand pharmaceuticals.

We believe in encouraging municipal sewage to be free of heavy metals, organic matter and pharmaceuticalsbefore being released into the environment.



9/32

Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 17 – 718EDA(s) – Selkirk – Interlake - EastmanSection – E – Fiscal #18 Balanced Budget Legislation (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes supports the government should enact balanced budgets and balanced budgetlegislation which includes overrides for declared national emergencies or other de ned, and presumably rare,circumstances.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 18 – 987EDA(s) – South Shore – St. MargaretsSection – H - Transportation #46. Ground Transportation (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes the government should work with the provinces and utilize revenues fromthe federal fuel excise tax as a source of funding to achieve a truly ‘National Highway System’ which includesprovision of strategic inter-provincial road-ferry links.

We believe the government should work in partnership with the provinces and territories to achieve anintegrated transportation system.

We believe that, in order to reduce automobile-rail accidents at level crossings, the government shouldcontinue to ensure that railroad owners take more responsibility for ensuring consistency in level crossingmarkings and equipping rail cars with side re ectors.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 19 – 919EDA(s) – Lac-Saint-LouisSection – F – Labour #34 Labour (Worker’s Rights) (MODIFICATION)

Addition of a new paragraph to article 34:

The Conservative Party supports the right of workers to organize democratically, to bargain collectively and tostrike peacefully while:

i. respecting the law;ii. respecting the right of other workers, without sanction, not to participate should they so choose; andiii. respecting private property

We believe that government should work with unions and employers in areas of federal jurisdiction to developdispute settlement mechanisms to minimize or avoid disruption to services to Canadians;

We support the right of union workers to a secret ballot in a strike vote.

We support right to work legislation to allow optional union membership including student unions.

We support requirements for clarity and public transparency in nancial returns from labour unions.


10/32

We believe that the government should prevent mandatory dues collected by unions from being diverted tofund political causes unrelated to workplace needs.

We believe that mandatory union membership and forced nancial contributions as a condition of employmentlimit the economic freedom of Canadians and sti e economic growth.

The Conservative Party supports banning unpaid internships in any federally regulated institution or enterprisethat are more than eight weeks in duration and not supervised by an accredited educational institution.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 20 – 437EDA(s) – Scarborough – Rouge Park Section – E – Fiscal - Canada as an energy leader (NEW)

The federal government should promote Canada as a world energy leader by supporting infrastructureinvestment in the transportation and processing of our natural resources and encourage the private sector toinvest in innovative energy projects such as solar.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 21 – 705EDA(s) – South Surrey – White Rock Section – C – Democratic Reform #14 Rights of Workers (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party of Canada:i. supports the right of workers to organize democratically, to bargain collectively and to peacefully withdrawand withhold services while:

a. respecting the law,

b. respecting the right of other workers, without sanction, not to participate should they so choose, and

c. respecting private property;

ii. believes that Government should work with unions and employers in areas of Federal jurisdiction to developdispute settlement mechanisms and encourage their use to avoid or minimize disruption to services toCanadians;

iii. supports the right of union workers to a secret ballot in any strike vote and in all union elections;

iv. supports right to work legislation to allow optional union membership including student unions.

v. supports the requirement that unions be subject to full, transparent annual nancial reporting so long as theyenjoy a not-for-pro t status and receive public support in the form of tax deductibility of union dues;

vi. believes that the federal government must act to ensure that members of unions under federal jurisdictionhave control over the use of the funds collected in the form of mandatory dues. The federal governmentshould legislate the following:


11/32

a. federal Public Service unions and unions in federally-regulated industries must explicitly detail on an annualbasis for their membership the portion of their budget allocated to political donations, donations to mediaorganizations, and to political activism and campaigns; and

b. federal Public Service Unions and unions in federally-regulated industries must allow members to opt out ofthe portion of their dues that are allocated to the activities in (i) above

vii.We believe that mandatory union membership and forced nancial contributions as a condition ofemployment limit the economic freedom of Canadians and sti e economic growth.

Policies 14, and 34 are virtually identical. We recommend making the underlined additions to policy item 14deletion of policy number 34, and renumber policies in this section, as well as throughout the remainder of ourpolicy document.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 22 – 609EDA(s) – Lambton – Kent - MiddlesexSection – E – Fiscal #20 Tax Code Simpli cation (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes that government should simplify the Income Tax Act, remove many of thecomplexities that have been built up over the years and simplify the Income Tax forms.

The Conservative Party favours broad-based tax relief over targeted tax credits as a means of simplifyingtax law and ensuring that Canadians broadly are able to retain more of their income without the economicdistortions inherent to targeted tax credits.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 23 – 716EDA(s) – Selkirk – Interlake - EastmanSection – E – Fiscal #20 Tax Code Simpli cation (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes in supports a simpli ed and understandable that government should simplifythe Income Tax Act, remove many of the complexities that have been built up over the years and simplify the Income Tax forms.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 24 – 594EDA(s) – Lambton – Kent - MiddlesexSection –C - Democratic Reform #10 Electoral Reform (MODIFICATION)


In reviewing options for electoral reform, we believe the government should not endorse any new electoralsystem that will weaken the link between Members of Parliament and their constituents, that will createunmanageably large ridings, or that will strengthen the control of the party machinery over individual Members


12/32

of Parliament.

A national referendum should be held prior to implementing any future electoral reform proposal.

The publicly-funded annual payment to federal political parties of $1.95 per vote received in the previousfederal election should be cancelled immediately and there should be no additional public funding of federalpolitical parties beyond that presently contained in the Elections Canada Act.


i. In reviewing options for electoral reform, we believe the government should not endorse any new electoralsystem that that will weaken the link between Members of Parliament and their constituents, that will createunmanageably large ridings, or that will strengthen the control of the party machinery over individual Membersof Parliament.

ii.The Conservative Party believes that any amendment to the existing Westminster electoral model, referredto as the rst past the post system, requires a constitutional amendment, and therefore a national referendum

must be held prior to implementing any future electoral reform changes. In order to adopt any electoralchange pursuant to the results of a national referendum, the vote in favor of the ballot question must be atleast sixty percent (60%) of the total votes cast.


Role of Government, Environment, and Economic Development – 1 – 25 – 515EDA(s) – Toronto CentreSection - F – Economic Development #36 Intellectual Property - Patent Legislation (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports the creation of a process to allow the patent holder to restore time lost on

20 year patent protection due to delays in government approvals.

The Conservative Party supports small and medium sized businesses and their need to commercializeinnovation. To this end we support a shorter and simpli ed patent process.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy

Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 01 – 842EDA(s) – Etobicoke Centre, Battlefords – Lloydminster, Thunder Bay – Rainy River, Lambton – Kent – Middlesex,OshawaSection – J – Health #56 Health Care (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes all Canadians should have reasonable access to timely, quality health careservices, regardless of their ability to pay.

The provinces and territories should have maximum exibility to ensure the delivery of medically necessaryhealth services within a universal, public health care system. We support adding a sixth principle to the Canada


13/32

Health Act to provide stable and transparent federal funding. The government should work with the provincesin a co-operative and constructive manner.

Flexibility for the provinces and territories in the implementation of health services should include a balance ofpublic and private delivery options.

The government should work with the provinces and territories in the development of national qualityindicators and objectives.

The government should work with the provinces and territories and professional medical groups to increasethe supply of health care professionals where shortages exist.

The Conservative Party supports conscience rights for doctors, nurses, and others to refuse to participate inor refer their patients for abortion, assisted suicide, or euthanasia.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 02 – 427EDA(s) – Thunder Bay – Rainy River, Etobicoke Centre, OshawaSection – K - Social Policy #73 Women (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports the full participation of women in the social, economic, and cultural life ofCanada. The Canadian workforce has evolved to include more women than ever. We believe all Canadians have theright to freedom from discrimination in the workplace and equality of opportunity.

Individuals should be only judged on skills, quali cations and merits. Women must be entitled to equal pay forequal work.

We recognize the value of the caregiver. We will examine measures within the tax system to help offseteconomic costs without discrimination.

We condemn discrimination against girls through gender selection abortions.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 03 – 443EDA(s) – Desnethe-Missinippi-Churchill River, Lambton – Kent - MiddlesexSection – M - Criminal Justice #96 Firearms (MODIFICATION)

A Conservative Government is committed to cost-effective gun control programs designed to keep gunsout of the hands of criminals while respecting the rights of law-abiding Canadians to own and use rearmsresponsibly.

Measures will include: mandatory minimum sentences for the criminal use of rearms; strict monitoring ofhigh-risk individuals; increased enforcement and prosecution of smuggling; safe storage provisions; rearmssafety training; a certi cation screening system for all those wishing to acquire rearms legally; and putting


14/32

more law enforcement of cers on our streets.

We recognize the legitimacy of private ownership of rearms and will resist any domestic or internationalpressure to the contrary.

A Conservative Government will not deprive Canadian Citizens of legally owned rearms.

A Conservative Government recognizes that civilian rearms ownership is a Canadian Heritage.

A Conservative Government would streamline Firearms classi cation by adopting the Simpli ed Classi cationSystem.

A Conservative government would order a review of rearms related laws to identify parts of those Acts thathave no public safety value.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 04 – 730EDA(s) – Kanata - CarletonSection – J - Health - Mental Health (NEW)

The Conservative Party acknowledges that health care includes mental illness and developmental disabilitiesand that all levels of government act within their areas of responsibility to ensure research, public awareness,timely assessment, treatment and support of individuals and families impacted by mental illness anddevelopmental disabilities.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 05 – 315EDA(s) – Calgary CentreSection – K - Social Policy #69 Employment Insurance (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports the establishment of an independent employment insurance system, with aself-accounting fund administered by employees and employers, the surplus of which being used to increaseworkers’ bene ts or reduce contributions.

The Conservative Party of Canada believes fundamentally in a strong, secure national employment insurancefund to support Canadians when they need it most. To this end, the Party believes funds contributed byemployers and employees to the El fund should only be used to provide bene ts to recipients; these fundsshould not be used for other government program spending.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 06 – 320EDA(s) – Alberta Congrèss Facilitated WorkshopSection K - SOCIAL POLICY #70. Family and Marriage (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes that the family unit is essential to the well-being of individuals and society,because that is where children learn values and develop a sense of responsibility. Therefore government


15/32

legislation and programs should support and respect the role of the Canadian family.

We believe in the right and duty of parents to raise their own children responsibly according to their ownconscience and beliefs. We believe no person, government or agency has the right to interfere in the exerciseof that duty except through due process of law.

We believe that Parliament, through a free vote, and not the courts should determine the de nition ofmarriage.

We support legislation de ning marriage as the union of one man and one woman.

We support the freedom of religious organizations to refuse to perform unions or allow the use of theirfacilities for events that are incompatible with their faith and beliefs.

We support income splitting for families.

We recognize the value of the caregiver. We will examine measures within the tax system to help offseteconomic costs without discrimination. Editor’s Note: move from 73 as Women are no longer the only

caregiver in some cases.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 07 – 318EDA(s) – Edmonton WestSection - K – Social Policy #74 Seniors (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party recognizes that those over the age of 65 are becoming a dominant segment ofour population. We also recognize that in ten years, the baby boomers will have reached retirement age,representing a signi cant portion of the population. We are committed to ensuring that seniors continue to

have quality of life, accessible health care and the ability to stay in their homes longer.

Four million Canadians are now over the age of 65, a number that is growing rapidly as Canadians are livinglonger. Many Canadians wish to continue working but are penalized by the loss of retirement bene ts. Weoppose the discriminatory practice of mandatory retirement and believe Canadians should be given the choiceof retiring or continuing to work without the loss of federal retirement bene ts.

We believe that those over the age of 65 should only pay Employment Insurance premiums if they qualify toreceive Employment Insurance bene ts.Policies must be developed in order to enable a greater number of Canadian seniors in need of care to remainin their own homes, rather than in more expensive institutional accommodations where their independencesuffers and costs are higher to the taxpayer. We support tax incentives for non-professional caregivers to lookafter the elderly or disabled in the home.

We favour tough measures to prevent elder abuse, and more severe punishment for those who commit thiscrime.

We believe the government should work with provincial counterparts to identify seniors entitled to eitherfederal or provincial bene ts. We believe the government should review the retroactivity policy of entitlementto federal bene ts.


16/32


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 08 – 422EDA(s) – Edmonton West, Fort McMurray - Cold Lake, Parkdale – High Park Section - K – Social Policy #70 Family and Marriage (De nition of Marriage) (MODIFICATION)

Note: This resolution proposes the deletion of 2 lines from 70, and the transferring of a line from 70 to 79.The will of the room at Alberta Congrèss was that these two policies needed to be dealt with together. This

resolution was also passed at the Toronto regional policy meeting.

Section K - 70. Family and Marriage (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes that the family unit is essential to the well-being of individuals and society,because that is where children learn values and develop a sense of responsibility. Therefore governmentlegislation and programs should support and respect the role of the Canadian family.

We believe in the right and duty of parents to raise their own children responsibly according to their ownconscience and beliefs. We believe no person, government or agency has the right to interfere in the exerciseof that duty except through due process of law.

We believe that Parliament, through a free vote, and not the courts should determine the de nition ofmarriage.

We support legislation de ning marriage as the union of one man and one woman.

We support the freedom of religious organizations to refuse to perform unions or allow the use of theirfacilities for events that are incompatible with their faith and beliefs.

79. Faith Based Organizations (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports the right of faith based organizations to refuse the use of their facilitiesto individuals or groups holding views which are contrary to the beliefs or standards of the faith basedorganization without fear of sanctions or harassment and that discrimination based on the beliefs of a faithbased organization be excluded from the de nition of disallowed discrimination under Human Rights.

We support the freedom of religious organizations to refuse to perform unions or allow the use of their

facilities for events that are incompatible with their faith and beliefs.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 09 – 499EDA(s) - OshawaSection - M-Criminal Justice #99-Family Violence (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes the consequences of family violence are harmful to all of society. We supportsentences for crimes of family violence that re ect our belief in the serious nature of violent criminal activity,its effect on individuals, on families and on communities. The protection of children and spouses in familyviolence situations is paramount.


17/32


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 10 – 532EDA(s) – Cowichan – Malahat - LangfordSection - M – Criminal Justice #91 - Justice Principles (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports reorienting the approach to criminal justice and the policing system to givethe highest priority to the protection of society through the prevention of crime. Additionally, we support

emphasizing the needs and rights of victims.

We support our Canadian justice system as de ned by our Charter and Constitution and does not support aparallel justice system which would contravene our existing rights and freedoms.We believe that those convicted of more than one serious crime should serve their sentences consecutivelyrather than concurrently.

We would review hate crime legislation (as a category) and bring the penalties in line with comparablesentencing in common violent crimes.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 11 – 575EDA(s) – Carlton Trail – Eagle Creek, Thunder Bay – Rainy River Section – J – Health - New article - Maternal Health (NEW)

The Conservative Party supports maternal and child health care initiatives designed to improve and protectwomen’s and children’s health and to reduce maternal death during pregnancy and delivery. The focus will beto ensure provision of the necessities of life - clean water, appropriate nutrition, inoculations, basic medicalcare, and training of health care workers to care for women and to deliver babies.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 12 – 922EDA(s) – Bellechasse–Les-EtcheminsSection – M - Criminal Justice # (NEW)

In order to expand the means which law enforcement authorities have at their disposal to combat drugs andtheir negative impacts, particularly among young people, and to reduce the volume of judicial proceedings,we recommend that peace of cers be enabled to issue tickets for simple possession of small quantities ofmarijuana.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 13 – 979EDA(s) - VictoriaSection - E – Fiscal #22 - Supporting Families (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party recognizes the need to support families and children. We believe that Canada’sdecreasing birthrate needs to be addressed by We support reducing the barriers facing those wishing to startand grow their families, thus ensuring the well-being and long-term sustainability of our communities. We


18/32

recognize that the location of marijuana dispensaries, needle exchange facilities and safe injection sites mayprejudice parental guidance and desired standards of safety for their children. We believe that these facilitiesand sites are best kept at a discreet distance from where children reside, play and attend school.

We support tax fairness for families by eliminating inequities between single and dual income families andintroducing a deduction for dependent children.

We support the elimination of all tax disadvantages to families including those who care for children at home.This recognizes the economic value of stay at home parents, and supports the introduction of tax fairnessmeasures such as income splitting for couples with children.

We also recognizes that many of our seniors lived on single family incomes as one parent stayed home andcared for their children. Our seniors deserve tax fairness to eliminate the discrepancy between single and dualfamily income in retirement.

We recognize the value of the home caregiver and supports tax relief for families who provide homecare.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 14 – 640EDA(s) – St. Albert - EdmontonSection – J - Healthcare # 57 Medicare Audit (DELETION)

The Conservative Party supports the concept of a social audit under the existing of ce of the Chief Actuary, tohelp Canadians and their governments determine how well their Medicare is working. The audit would includeactuarial advice on program design and health care nancing issues.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 15 – 641EDA(s) – St. Albert - EdmontonSection - J Healthcare - Federal Health Transfer Payments (NEW)

The Conservative Party believes the payment system used to nance the Federal Government share ofCanada’s provincial healthcare program spending should be fair and reasonable and provided on similar termsand conditions throughout the nation.


Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 16 – 497EDA(s) – South Surrey – White Rock Section – J – Health # 65 - Doctor Assisted Dying 65. Euthanasia (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party will not support any legislation to legalize euthanasia or assisted suicide.

We believe that all Canadians have the inalienable and private right, after deep personal re ection, to maketheir own end-of-life decisions.

We believe that all Canadians prior to making such important decisions should confer with their health


19/32


20/32

Criminal Justice and Social Policy – 2 - 19 – 439EDA(s) - AjaxSection – K – Social Policy - # (NEW)New Principle - opposition to justi cation of any criminal acts that are perpetrated in the name of culture orreligion.

The Conservative Party rmly opposes the justi cation of any criminal acts, as per Canadian law, that areperpetrated in the name of culture or religion.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity

Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 01 – 574EDA(s) – West Vancouver – Sunshine Coast – Sea to Sky CountrySection - S-Fisheries #119: Oceans & Coastlines (NEW) Coast Guard, Marine Safety and Abandoned Vessels

The Party emphasizes our commitment to Maritime Safety by implementing an institutional change, to transferthe Coast Guard back to the Minister of Transport; and that Coast Guard bases are operated using a cost-effective plan, via the creation or upgrading of facilities that can effectively and ef ciently respond to marinesafety matters.

The Conservative Party stand by its commitment to facilitate rehabilitation or demolition of abandoned andderelict vessels.

The Conservative Party supports Government Legislators in Paci c and Maritime ridings to consult withscienti c and technical experts and implement decisions based on independent scienti c data.

Conservative Convention 2016 Congrès Conservateur Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 02 – 661EDA(s) – Ottawa - Vanier Section – F – Economic Development #39. Arctic Sovereignty (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes that demonstrating Canada’s presence in the Arctic requires both political andeconomic development in northern Canada. We believe the government should:

i. work with the territories to streamline regulatory processes;

ii. make substantial strategic investments in the territories, particularly in transportation infrastructure; and thedevelopment of icebreaking capabilities consistent with Canada’s need to exert Arctic sovereignty and promoteyear-round development.

iii. fast-track the devolution of “provincial type” responsibilities to the territories from Indian and NorthernAffairs Canada and other federal departments; and

iv. work in partnership with the governments of Yukon, NWT, and Nunavut to assert and maintain sovereigntyin the Canadian Arctic with clear, effective and consistent rules and with an integrated, coordinated resourcemanagement approach to meet the challenges associated with increased exploration, development and marine


21/32


22/32

iv. implementing a fully merit-based process for Immigration and Refugee Board appointments; andv. developing a refugee appeals process that is fair and timely.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 05 – 331EDA(s) – Alberta Congrèss Facilitated WorkshopSection - V – National Defence and Security # Streamlining defence procurement (NEW)

The Conservative Party believes in streamlining, reducing timelines and removing bureaucratic impedimentsfrom the procurement interests of the Canadian Forces and the Department of National Defence.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 06 – 441EDA(s) - AjaxSection – T – Immigration and Refugees (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party will give priority to refugees in line with Canadian national interests. The ConservativeParty supports a non-partisan, welcoming and well-managed immigration system for Canada based on:

i. a fair, transparent and ef cient process that earns the respect and con dence of Canadians as well as ofthe international community;

ii. compassionate measures to assist in family reuni cation;iii. ensuring that Canada is successful in encouraging skilled immigrants and their spouses and children to

make Canada their destination of choice;iv. a clear, workable and ef cient process for immigrants to obtain equivalency for their international skills,

training and experience;v. addressing the need for adequate long-term funding for settlement services providers; and

vi. upholding Canada’s humanitarian tradition of providing safe haven for refugees.vii. The most successful and most generous programmes and practices in the world for selecting, settling,integrating and retaining immigrants and refugees to meet the needs of the Canadian economy,strengthen our shared prosperity and enhance our diversity and connection with every part ofthe world.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 07 – 671EDA(s) – South Surrey – White Rock Section - V – National Defence and Security #135 Veterans (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes the government should be committed to providing the best possible servicesand bene ts for veterans and their families, in recognition of their service to Canada. We are also committedto keeping the memory of Canadian veterans’ achievements and sacri ces alive through the promotion ofpublic awareness and memorials.

We believe that a mutual obligation exists in the form of a Military Covenant between the people of Canada,and the people of Canada and each individual member of the Canadian Forces. It forms an unbreakable bond ofidentity, loyalty, and responsibility that has emerged during the service of the Canadian Forces throughout thehistory of Canada.


23/32

This Covenant recognizes that there is no equivalent profession to that of service in the Canadian Forces andthe uniqueness of military service extends to the experiences of military families.

In return for their sacri ce and endurance, Members of the Canadian Forces must also be able to expect,from the Government of Canada on behalf of their fellow Canadians, to be valued and treated with dignity andrespect as individuals and to receive adequate compensation for injury or death and re-establishment in civillife. They further must always be able to expect that the families of those who die as a result of their service toCanada will be fairly cared for and supported.

We support the Veterans’ Bill of Rights to ensure that all disputes involving veterans are treated quickly, fairlyand with the presumption in favour of the rights of the veteran. The Conservative Party regards this as animportant component of the national commitment to treating our veterans with respect.

We would immediately institute a complete overhaul of Veterans Affairs Canada bringing it online with theneeds of today’s veterans of con ict and peacekeeping missions. This would include instituting a standard ofdelivery of services, i.e., reviews, payment of services and the like.

We support the continuing reform of the Veterans Review and Appeals Board so that it can more effectively

respond to the wishes of veterans. To this end, we will work to increase the number of military peers on thatBoard.

We will continue to ensure veterans have the bene ts and services they deserve after a life-time of dedicationto their country.

We are committed to ensuring the veterans of Canada’s wars and peacekeeping operations receive theirveterans’ bene ts and health care in a timely fashion.

We are committed to ensuring that Canada’s veterans’ hospital and various veterans’ wings in regular hospitalsare in top working order.

We would immediately extend Veterans Independence Program services to the widows of all Second WorldWar and Korean War veterans regardless of when the Veteran died or how long they had been receiving thebene t before they passed away.

We would examine measures to ensure that National military treasures are retained in Canada as a part ofour Canadian heritage.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 08 – 768EDA(s) – Etobicoke - LakeshoreSection – T – Immigration and Refugees #123 Immigration Principles (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party supports a non-partisan, welcoming and well-managed immigration system for Canadabased on:

i. a fair, transparent and ef cient process that earns the respect and con dence of Canadians as well as ofthe international community;


24/32


25/32

iv. CFDS gives Canadian industry a unique opportunity, through predictable funding and timelines, to planand prepare in the longer term for the development of equipment and systems to support our ArmedForces. The Strategy will help the Canadian defence industry maintain and build their lead in many areas ofadvanced technology while providing quality jobs for thousands of Canadians across the country.

We fully support the government’s prompt actions to ll some of the most pressing defence priorities: strategicand tactical airlift capability for operational and humanitarian relief tasks; the strengthening of Canada’spresence in the Arctic; and ensuring our deployed troops have the resources they need to establish securityand to optimize their own protection. We fully support the government’s renewal of a strong commitmentto NORAD and the expanded cooperation with the US, through Canada Command, in the surveillance andcontrol of our coasts and closer coordination of disaster response operations.

Canada’s National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy is in danger of not achieving its goal of renewing thesurface eets of the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard.

Deviation from the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy, particularly by reducing the number ofvessels will: (1) erode the operational capacity of the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard: (2)undermine the ability of our country to support our allies, (3) and negatively impact the ability of our shipyards

to develop the skills necessary for maintaining a sovereign shipbuilding capacity.

We support a strong and viable shipbuilding industry here in Canada, and urge the federal government tohonour all awarded contracts. The Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard require the modern,capable vessels in the ordered quantity to ful ll their respective mandates to provide maritime security andenforcement.

Furthermore, we support and call upon the Government of Canada to reach the previously agreed uponNATO spending target of 2 percent (%) of GDP for defence spending.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 11 – 917EDA(s) – Pierrefonds - DollardSection – L – Aboriginal Affairs # 82 paragraph 1: Aboriginal Affairs (NEW)

The Conservative Party supports the abolition of the Indian Act and proposes a new legislation whichrecognizes the duciary obligation of the Federal Crown while proposing a new deal with First Nations basedon autonomy, taxation capacity, transparency, accountability and property rights.

The Indian Act (and related legislation) should be replaced by a modern legislative framework which

provides for the devolution of full legal and democratic responsibility to First Nations, including the Inuit,for their own affairs within the overall constitutional framework of our federal state. Such legislative reformshould be pursued following full consultation with First Nations, with the objective of achieving a full andcomplete devolution of democratic authority that is consistent with the devolution of other decision makingresponsibility within our federal system. First Nations like other Canadians, are entitled to enjoy democraticcontrol over their own affairs within a legislative context that ensures certainty, stability, respect for the rule oflaw and which balances collective and individual responsibility.

First Nation communities must have the exibility to determine for themselves, whether and how free


26/32

market principles (such as individual property ownership) should apply to reserve lands. Self-governmentshould be accomplished in a manner which takes into account the cultural and linguistic diversity of Canada’sFirst Nations. Within the context of the Canadian Constitution, we should be prepared to make exibleaccommodations for the protection of language and culture within self-government agreements.

We believe the government should not negotiate land claims where the rule of law is not respected.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 12 – 510EDA(s) – Dufferin - CaledonSection – V – National Defence and Security # 135 Veterans (MODIFICATION)


We support the Veterans’ Bill of Rights to ensure that all disputes involving veterans are treated quickly, fairly

and with the presumption in favour of the rights of the veteran. The Conservative Party regards this as animportant component of the national commitment to treating our veterans with respect.

We would immediately institute a complete overhaul of Veterans Affairs Canada bringing it online with theneeds of today’s veterans of con ict and peacekeeping missions. This would include instituting a standard ofdelivery of services, i.e., reviews, payment of services and the like.

We support the continuing reform of the Veterans Review and Appeals Board so that it can more effectivelyrespond to the wishes of veterans. To this end, we will work to increase the number of military peers on thatBoard.

We will continue to ensure veterans have the bene ts and services they deserve after a life-time of dedicationto their country. We are committed to ensuring the veterans of Canada’s wars and peacekeeping operationsreceive their veterans’ bene ts and health care in a timely fashion.We are committed to ensuring that Canada’s veterans’ hospital and various veterans’ wings in regular hospitalsare in top working order.

We would immediately extend Veterans Independence Program services to the widows of all Second WorldWar and Korean War veterans regardless of when the Veteran died or how long they had been receiving thebene t before they passed away.

We would examine measures to ensure that National military treasures are retained in Canada as a part ofour Canadian heritage.

Any member of the Canadian Forces injured in the line of duty and declared “not combat ready” be giventhe option of continuing a career in the Canadian Forces in a role using their skills, but not requiring combatreadiness.



27/32

Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 13 – 836EDA(s) - CharlottetownSection – Q - Rural Canada #113 Rural Principles (MODIFICATION)

It is proposed that the “rural economy” paragraph in Section R--114 be removed from that section and addedto Section Q--113. In addition it is proposed that an additional paragraph be added to Section Q--113.

Rural Canada plays an essential role in Canada’s economic and social fabric, contributing approximately 15%of Canada’s GDP and 40% of our exports. The Conservative Party believes that agriculture, agri-food, sheries,mining, tourism and forestry--the sectors that sustain Canada’s rural communities--must be a priority for thefederal government.

As the agriculture base of the rural economy has declined, so too has infrastructure in small communities. Topreserve the social fabric of rural Canada, we encourage the government to foster diversity and responsibledevelopment in small towns and villages by encouraging innovation in the development of small businesses thatkeep these communities alive. (Formerly the last paragraph of Section R--114)

The rural communities of Canada continue to see population trends of out-migration towards larger urbancenters. We believe that a focused targeted program of bringing skilled immigrants to our rural areas willassist in revitalizing our rural communities and their local economies. Such a program should focus on therecruitment and retention of these immigrants in these rural communities. (Proposed new paragraph)


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 14 – 330EDA(s) – Alberta Congrèss Facilitated WorkshopSection -V – National Defence and Security #134 Canada First Defence Strategy - (NEW)

The Conservative Party believes that the purpose of Canada’s defence policy is to better defend the national

interest – the security of the Canadian nation and the economic prosperity of the Canadian people – in accordwith the values of Canadians. In all that we do in the area of defence policy, we will apply this basic measure ofthe national interest, and advance the “Canada First Defence Strategy” (CFDS). We support the CFDS because:

i. CFDS clearly lays out the priority tasks for the armed forces; surveillance and control of Canadian territoryand the protection of Canada and Canadians, a strong and reliable partnership with the US in the defence ofNorth America; a strong leadership role in international security and stability operations ;

ii. CFDS is a 20-year strategy supported by assured long term funding to strengthen the four pillars of defence;personnel; equipment; readiness and infrastructure. The Strategy provides for a balanced increase in acrossthese 4 pillars, including increasing the personnel strength of the CF and the replacement of all the majorequipment systems with new more capable platforms ;

iii.CFDS not only raises the strength of our armed forces but provides our soldiers, sailors and airmen withthe best and most modern equipment to carry out the tasks assigned to them. The increase in personnelwill reduce stress on soldiers and their families; increased funding for readiness means better and morefocused training and the improvement in infrastructure will contribute to bettering the lifestyle of themilitary community ; and

iv. CFDS gives Canadian industry a unique opportunity, through predictable funding and timelines, to plan andprepare in the longer term for the development of equipment and systems to support our Armed Forces.The Strategy will help the Canadian defence industry maintain and build their lead in many areas of advancedtechnology while providing quality jobs for thousands of Canadians across the country.


28/32

We fully support the government’s prompt actions to ll some of the most pressing defence priorities: strategicand tactical airlift capability for operational and humanitarian relief tasks; the strengthening of Canada’spresence in the Arctic; and ensuring our deployed troops have the resources they need to establish securityand to optimize their own protection. We fully support the government’s renewal of a strong commitmentto NORAD and the expanded cooperation with the US, through Canada Command, in the surveillance andcontrol of our coasts and closer coordination of disaster response operations.

Replace section 134 of the policy declaration of the Conservative Party of Canada with the followingstatement:

The Conservative Par ty of Canada believes that it is a fundamental purpose of Canadian defense policy to:

• Defend our democratic freedom and territorial integrity, as it is the highest obligation of our federalgovernment.

• Preserve our current obligations, regionally and internationally.

• Join forces with our allies, when in Canada’s best interests, to defend the rights and freedoms ofpeoples throughout the world.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 15 – 334EDA(s) – Alberta Congrèss Facilitated WorkshopSection - V- National Defence and Security #137 Military Reservists (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party recognizes the important contribution that military reservists make to Canadiansecurity, and believes the government should be committed to supporting reservists deployed on missions or

occupational training as if they are regular Force members. When reservists are called to leave their homesand families to serve Canada, the least we can do is ensure that their civilian job is waiting for them when theyreturn.

We support obliging all federal departments, agencies and federally regulated corporations businesses toguarantee that any employee, who temporarily leaves his or her non-military jobs to deploy on missions or onmilitary training, will be guaranteed his or her non-military job upon returning from deployment or training. A Conservative Government will work with provincial and private-sector partners to ensure that all reservepersonnel who work for any provincial government, provincial agency, or private sector entity will beguaranteed their non-military job upon returning from military deployment or military training.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 16 – 523EDA(s) Toronto CentreSection - Placement is exible (NEW)

A Conservative government will support legislation enabling Canada to revoke citizenship from dual citizensconvicted of terrorist offences.


29/32


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 17 – 404EDA(s) – Cloverdale – Langley CitySection – S – Fisheries - Coast Guard (NEW)

The Conservative Party supports the effective security, safety and protection of all of Canada’s coasts, the

Great Lakes and seaways, and believes in equipping the Coast Guard with the resources and regulatory meansto:

a. educate Coast Guard employees and volunteers on all coasts to observe and react to issues arisingon the waters;

b. coordinate the communication of all identi ed security threats, coastal emergencies, and potential environmental hazards; and

c. coordinate a world-class rapid response to shipping hazards, disasters at sea, and immediate threatsto the coastal environment.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 18 – 786EDA(s) – Port Moody - CoquitlamSection – V – National Defence and Security #136 - Security (MODIFICATION)

The Conservative Party believes that Canada has a direct interest in a more stable and secure world. Ourgovernment must be positioned to deal with complex international security issues in order to protect ourcitizens and contribute to the broader responsibility.

We are committed to ensuring that better cooperation among Canada’s intelligence and security agencies to

more effectively protect Canadians against internal and external security and economic threats in a changingand unstable global environment. Canada must not be a safe haven for international terrorist operatives.

We believe that Canada should stand and support its allies by providing all necessary support to defeat the scourge of transnational terrorism. The Conservative Party believes that terrorism can only be defeated bya sustained and comprehensive approach involving Canada’s active participation and collaboration with itsallies. The Government of Canada shall use its military, law enforcement resources and intelligence agenciesto prevent attacks, disrupt criminal networks, and cut off avenues of nancing for increasingly determined andsophisticated terrorist groups and individuals.

We believe the government should consider establishing a Canadian national intelligence agency to coordinate

existing intelligence from all sources to provide the Prime Minister, senior 56 ministers and of cials withnational intelligence information and assessments. The creation of a new Canadian national intelligenceagency will be drawn from the Privy Council Of ce’s international assessment and security and intelligencesecretariats.

We believe the government should examine the feasibility of establishing a committee of senior governmentand of cial opposition Members of Parliament (sworn to secrecy as required) to scrutinize and oversee theactivities of the national intelligence agency, utilizing con dential and in-camera sessions as required, and alsoconsider having the head of the national intelligence agency be con rmed by Parliament and appearing before


30/32

the committee as required.

In a post September 11th world, we believe government should continue to enhance the foreign intelligencegathering and analytical capacity of the CSIS, Department of National Defence, and Communications SecurityEstablishment.We believe the government should continue to work with our North American partners to coordinateefforts on security for our collective personal safety and economic prosperity with particular emphasis onpreservation of our Northern waters.

The responsibilities for a revitalized Canadian Coast Guard should be part of the Ministry of Public Safety andEmergency Preparedness. As part of increasing marine security, the government should reinstitute the PortsPolice as a unit of the RCMP, and increase surveillance on the coasts and the Great Lakes.We believe the government should remain committed to ensuring that agencies such as CSIS, RCMP, CanadianBorder Services Agency and Coast Guard are properly resourced both in manpower and equipment.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 19 – 672EDA(s) South Surrey – White Rock Section – M – Criminal Justice # Courts of Cultural and Religious Persuasion (NEW)

In areas of f ederal jurisdiction, the Conservative Party of Canada will not endorse religious or cultural courtsin Canada. In each province and territory in Canada there shall be one law for all Canadians, with courts forcriminal matters.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 20 – 332EDA(s) – Edmonton - Manning

Section – V National Defence and Security #135 Veterans – (MODIFICATION)


We support the Veterans’ Bill of Rights to ensure that all disputes involving veterans are treated quickly, fairlyand with the presumption in favour of the rights of the veteran. The Conservative Party regards this as animportant component of the national commitment to treating our veterans with respect.

We support instituting a standard of delivery for services provided to veterans including clear timecommitments, i.e., reviews, payment of services and the like.

We support the continuing reform of the Veterans Review and Appeals Board so that it can more effectivelyrespond to the wishes of veterans. To this end, we will work to increase the number of military peers on thatBoard.

We will continue to ensure veterans have the bene ts and services they deserve after a life-time of dedicationto their country.


31/32

We are committed to ensuring the veterans of Canada’s wars and peacekeeping operations receive theirveterans’ bene ts and health care in a timely fashion.

We are committed to ensuring that Canada’s veterans’ hospital, care facilities and various veterans’ wings inregular hospitals are in top working order.We would immediately extend Veterans Independence Program services to the widows of all Second WorldWar and Korean War veterans regardless of when the Veteran died or how long they had been receiving thebene t before they passed away.

We r ecognize the importance of supporting veterans’ and their families in the dif cult challenge ofreintegrating into life after challenging periods of service. Accordingly, we are committed to making Canada aninternational leader in the diagnosis, treatment and research of any mental or physical stress caused by militaryservice.

We would examine measures to ensure that military artifacts of national importance are retained in Canada asa part of our Canadian heritage and that the government purchase military artifacts of particular importance inprivate possession where feasible to do so.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 21 – 324EDA(s) – Edmonton WestSection - R – Agriculture #116 Canadian Wheat Board (DELETION)

A Conservative Government will give farmers the freedom to make their own individual marketing andtransportation decisions and to direct, structure, and to voluntarily participate in producer organizations.


Foreign Policy, Canadian Culture and Diversity – 3 – 22 – 822EDA(s) – South Shore – St. MargaretsSection - F – Economic Development #40 Long Term Energy Framework – (EDIT)

The Conservative Party believes that Canada has a natural economic advantage due to an abundance of fossilfuels, uranium, renewable sources of biomass fuel, hydro power generation, tidal, solar, geothermal, and some ofthe world’s best wind regimes.

We believe that government should develop a renewable and non-renewable energy framework whichtakes into account outstanding obligations and which will meet our long-term requirements for domestic

consumption and export.

We believe that strengthening energy market integration will ensure greater reliability of energy suppliesacross Canada. We encourage the government to explore ways to reduce barriers to the movement of energyproducts across provincial and other borders. The government of Canada should provide leadership and workclosely with provincial and territorial governments to align energy goals in the best interests of all Canadiansand seek to achieve a positive impact on energy infrastructure development, energy supply and energy demandin Canada by removing arti cial barriers to interprovincial and international energy trade.


32/32

2016 conservative policy resolutions

Documents