Mr. Speaker, the One Million Flags Operation came to an end this week-end, in a most surprisingly understated fashion.
What could possibly have urged the minister to show such restraint, for she is known for her extravagant statement? Here are at least three reasons.
First: At a time when the federal government is applying unprecedented cuts to our social security net and our culture, this operation is a shameful waste of public funds.
Second: During this operation, 10 per cent of the flags were distributed in the province of Quebec and 40 per cent in Ontario, another unequivocal proof that there are two countries within Canada, two nations: Quebec and the rest of Canada.
Third: Last year, the Prime Minister of Canada put a damper on Flag Day when he grabbed a demonstrator by the throat. This very worrisome image is etched in our memory.